Best Cornelius Public Elementary Schools (2026)

For the 2026 school year, there are 4 public elementary schools serving 2,969 students in Cornelius, NC.
The top-ranked public elementary schools in Cornelius, NC are Bailey Middle School, J.v. Washam Elementary School and Cornelius Elementary School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Cornelius, NC public elementary schools have an average math proficiency score of 78% (versus the North Carolina public elementary school average of 50%), and reading proficiency score of 66% (versus the 49% statewide average). Elementary schools in Cornelius have an average ranking of 10/10, which is in the top 5% of North Carolina public elementary schools.
Minority enrollment is 37% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the North Carolina public elementary school average of 57% (majority Black and Hispanic).

Best Public Elementary Schools in Cornelius, NC (2026)

School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Bailey Middle School
(Math: 81% | Reading: 71%)
Rank:
10/
10
Top 10%
11900 Bailey Rd
Cornelius, NC 28031
(980) 343-1068
Gr: 6-8 | 1,325 students Student-teacher ratio: 18:1 Minority enrollment: 37%
Rank: #22.
J.v. Washam Elementary School
(Math: 80% | Reading: 60%)
Rank:
9/
10
Top 20%
9611 Westmoreland Rd
Cornelius, NC 28031
(980) 343-1071
Gr: K-5 | 810 students Student-teacher ratio: 17:1 Minority enrollment: 32%
Rank: #33.
Cornelius Elementary School
(Math: 69% | Reading: 58%)
Rank:
8/
10
Top 30%
21126 Catawba Ave
Cornelius, NC 28031
(980) 343-3905
Gr: K-5 | 556 students Student-teacher ratio: 15:1 Minority enrollment: 37%
Rank: #44.
Lakeside Charter Academy
Charter School
(Math: 45-49% | Reading: 40-44%)
Rank:
5/
10
Bottom 50%
17609 Old Statesville Rd
Cornelius, NC 28031
(704) 896-9500
Gr: K-8 | 278 students Student-teacher ratio: 20:1 Minority enrollment: 60%

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-ranked public elementary schools in Cornelius, NC?
The top-ranked public elementary schools in Cornelius, NC include Bailey Middle School, J.v. Washam Elementary School and Cornelius Elementary School.
How many public elementary schools are located in Cornelius?
4 public elementary schools are located in Cornelius.
What is the racial composition of students in Cornelius?
Cornelius public elementary schools minority enrollment is 37% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the North Carolina public elementary schools average of 57% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Which public elementary schools in Cornelius are often viewed compared to one another?

Recent Articles

Understanding School Safety Policies in 2026
Understanding School Safety Policies in 2026
Learn how school safety policies are evolving in 2026, including mental health support, AI monitoring, emergency planning, and parent rights.
How to Support Your Child’s Mental Health at School
How to Support Your Child’s Mental Health at School
Practical guidance for parents and educators on supporting child mental health during the school year, with expert strategies and 2026 insights.
What a National Blue Ribbon of Distinction Means in 2026
What a National Blue Ribbon of Distinction Means in 2026
Understand what a National Blue Ribbon of Distinction means, how schools earn it, and why it matters for academic quality in 2026.

Quick Links