For the 2026 school year, there are 2 public schools serving 648 students in Columbus, NC.
The top-ranked public schools in Columbus, NC are Polk County High School and Polk County Early College. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Columbus, NC public schools have an average math proficiency score of 71% (versus the North Carolina public school average of 51%), and reading proficiency score of 68% (versus the 50% statewide average). Schools in Columbus have an average ranking of 10/10, which is in the top 10% of North Carolina public schools.
Minority enrollment is 26% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the North Carolina public school average of 58% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Best Public Schools in Columbus, NC (2026)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Polk County High School
(Math: 70-79% | Reading: 65-69%)
Rank:
Rank:
9/
Top 20%10
1681 East Nc 108 Hwy
Columbus, NC 28722
(828) 894-2525
Columbus, NC 28722
(828) 894-2525
Gr: 9-12 | 596 students Student-teacher ratio: 19:1 Minority enrollment: 27%
Rank: #22.
Polk County Early College
(Math: ≥50% | Reading: ≥80%)
Rank:
Rank:
8/
Top 30%10
1545 East Nc 108 Hwy
Columbus, NC 28722
(828) 894-2698
Columbus, NC 28722
(828) 894-2698
Gr: 9-12 | 52 students Student-teacher ratio: 17:1 Minority enrollment: 12%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public schools in Columbus, NC?
The top-ranked public schools in Columbus, NC include Polk County High School and Polk County Early College.
How many public schools are located in Columbus?
2 public schools are located in Columbus.
What is the racial composition of students in Columbus?
Columbus public schools minority enrollment is 26% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the North Carolina public schools average of 58% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Which public schools in Columbus are often viewed compared to one another?
Popular comparisons of public schools in Columbus include: Polk County Early College vs. Polk County High School, Polk County High School vs. Polk County Early College
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