For the 2025 school year, there are 2 public high schools serving 648 students in Columbus, NC.
The top ranked public high 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 high schools have an average math proficiency score of 71% (versus the North Carolina public high school average of 58%), and reading proficiency score of 68% (versus the 58% statewide average). High schools in Columbus have an average ranking of 9/10, which is in the top 20% of North Carolina public high schools.
Columbus, NC public high school have a Graduation Rate of 88%, which is more than the North Carolina average of 85%.
The school with highest graduation rate is Polk County Early College, with ≥90% graduation rate. Read more about public school graduation rate statistics in North Carolina or national school graduation rate statistics.
Minority enrollment is 25% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the North Carolina public high school average of 55% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Best Public High Schools in Columbus, NC (2025)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Grades
Students
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
Grades: 9-12
| 593 students
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
Grades: 9-12
| 55 students
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top ranked public high schools in Columbus, NC?
The top ranked public high schools in Columbus, NC include Polk County High School and Polk County Early College.
How many public high schools are located in Columbus?
2 public high schools are located in Columbus.
What is the racial composition of students in Columbus?
Columbus public high schools minority enrollment is 25% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the North Carolina public high schools average of 55% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Which public high schools in Columbus are often viewed compared to one another?
Popular comparisons of public high schools in Columbus include: Polk County High School vs. Polk County Early College
Recent Articles
Sexual Harassment at Age 6: The Tale of a First Grade Suspension
A six-year old in Aurora, Colorado, was suspended after singing an LMFAO song to a little girl in his class and reportedly “shaking his booty.” We look at the case and the sexual harassment problem in public schools today.
How Scaffolding Could Change the Way Your Child Learns
This article explores the concept of instructional scaffolding, a teaching method that enhances learning by breaking down complex tasks into manageable parts. It highlights how scaffolding supports students in developing critical thinking skills and becoming more independent learners. The article discusses the benefits of scaffolding, including improved engagement and reduced anxiety, and provides strategies for its implementation across various educational levels.
February 05, 2025
Understanding the U.S. Department of Education: Structure, Impact, and EvolutionWe explore how the Department of Education shapes American education, from its cabinet-level leadership to its impact on millions of students, written for general audiences seeking clarity on this vital institution.