For the 2026 school year, there are 4 public schools serving 3,370 students in 27523, NC (there are 2 private schools, serving 56 private students). 98% of all K-12 students in 27523, NC are educated in public schools (compared to the NC state average of 92%).
The top-ranked public schools in 27523, NC are White Oak Elementary School, Salem Middle School and Salem Elementary School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Public schools in zipcode 27523 have an average math proficiency score of 77% (versus the North Carolina public school average of 51%), and reading proficiency score of 74% (versus the 50% statewide average). Schools in 27523, NC have an average ranking of 10/10, which is in the top 5% of North Carolina public schools.
Minority enrollment is 53% of the student body (majority Asian), which is less than the North Carolina public school average of 58% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Best 27523, NC Public Schools (2026)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
White Oak Elementary School
(Math: 96% | Reading: 92%)
Rank:
Rank:
10/
Top 1%10
1512 White Oak Church Rd
Apex, NC 27523
(919) 694-0202
Apex, NC 27523
(919) 694-0202
Gr: PK-5 | 843 students Student-teacher ratio: 16:1 Minority enrollment: 75%
Rank: #22.
Salem Middle School
(Math: 75% | Reading: 72%)
Rank:
Rank:
10/
Top 10%10
6150 Old Jenks Road
Apex, NC 27523
(919) 363-1870
Apex, NC 27523
(919) 363-1870
Gr: 6-8 | 1,057 students Student-teacher ratio: 18:1 Minority enrollment: 48%
Rank: #33.
Salem Elementary School
(Math: 72% | Reading: 65%)
Rank:
Rank:
9/
Top 20%10
6116 Old Jenks Road
Apex, NC 27523
(919) 363-2865
Apex, NC 27523
(919) 363-2865
Gr: PK-5 | 776 students Student-teacher ratio: 14:1 Minority enrollment: 51%
Rank: #44.
Laurel Park Elementary School
(Math: 70% | Reading: 68%)
Rank:
Rank:
9/
Top 20%10
2450 Laura Duncan Rd
Apex, NC 27523
(919) 290-2333
Apex, NC 27523
(919) 290-2333
Gr: PK-5 | 694 students Student-teacher ratio: 15:1 Minority enrollment: 36%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public schools in 27523, NC?
The top-ranked public schools in 27523, NC include White Oak Elementary School, Salem Middle School and Salem Elementary School.
How many public schools are located in 27523?
4 public schools are located in 27523.
What percentage of students in 27523 go to public school?
98% of all K-12 students in 27523 are educated in public schools (compared to the NC state average of 92%).
What is the racial composition of students in 27523?
27523 public schools minority enrollment is 53% of the student body (majority Asian), which is less than the North Carolina public schools average of 58% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Recent Articles
Gifted, Honors, and Advanced Tracks: Are They Accessible or Just Advertised?
Learn how to evaluate gifted, honors, and advanced academic programs in public schools, including admission criteria, equity, and the questions every parent should ask.
Algebra Readiness: What Parents Should Ask Before Middle School
Discover how to determine if your child is ready for algebra before middle school, including the questions parents should ask and the skills students need to succeed.
How to Evaluate Reading Instruction in Your Zoned Elementary School
Learn how to evaluate reading instruction in your neighborhood elementary school by recognizing effective literacy practices, asking the right questions, and understanding what quality reading instruction looks like.