For the 2026 school year, there are 3 public schools serving 1,270 students in 27822, NC (there are 1 private school, serving 25 private students). 98% of all K-12 students in 27822, NC are educated in public schools (compared to the NC state average of 92%).
The top-ranked public schools in 27822, NC are Gardners Elementary School, Elm City Middle School and Coopers Elementary School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Public schools in zipcode 27822 have an average math proficiency score of 57% (versus the North Carolina public school average of 51%), and reading proficiency score of 56% (versus the 50% statewide average). Schools in 27822, NC have an average ranking of 8/10, which is in the top 30% of North Carolina public schools.
Minority enrollment is 48% of the student body (majority Black), which is less than the North Carolina public school average of 58% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Best 27822, NC Public Schools (2026)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Gardners Elementary School
(Math: 70-74% | Reading: 60-64%)
Rank:
Rank:
9/
Top 20%10
5404 Nc 42 Hwy E
Elm City, NC 27822
(252) 399-7920
Elm City, NC 27822
(252) 399-7920
Gr: K-5 | 280 students Student-teacher ratio: 16:1 Minority enrollment: 65%
Rank: #22.
Elm City Middle School
(Math: 51% | Reading: 59%)
Rank:
Rank:
7/
Top 50%10
215 E Church St
Elm City, NC 27822
(252) 236-4148
Elm City, NC 27822
(252) 236-4148
Gr: 6-8 | 399 students Student-teacher ratio: 15:1 Minority enrollment: 51%
Rank: #33.
Coopers Elementary School
(Math: 59% | Reading: 50%)
Rank:
Rank:
7/
Top 50%10
6833 Nc Highway 58
Elm City, NC 27822
(252) 937-9035
Elm City, NC 27822
(252) 937-9035
Gr: PK-5 | 591 students Student-teacher ratio: 18:1 Minority enrollment: 39%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public schools in 27822, NC?
The top-ranked public schools in 27822, NC include Gardners Elementary School, Elm City Middle School and Coopers Elementary School.
How many public schools are located in 27822?
3 public schools are located in 27822.
What percentage of students in 27822 go to public school?
98% of all K-12 students in 27822 are educated in public schools (compared to the NC state average of 92%).
What is the racial composition of students in 27822?
27822 public schools minority enrollment is 48% of the student body (majority Black), which is less than the North Carolina public schools average of 58% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Recent Articles
How to Evaluate School Safety Beyond Headlines
Learn how to evaluate school safety beyond headlines by examining reliable data, school climate, emergency planning, bullying prevention, communication, student experiences, and everyday security practices before choosing a school.
Choosing a Public School for Executive Function Needs
Learn how to choose a public school for a child with executive function challenges by evaluating routines, classroom support, organization, accommodations, communication, transitions, and special education services before enrollment.
What School Climate Surveys Tell You Before Enrolling
Learn how school climate surveys reveal student safety, belonging, relationships, engagement, and support, and how families can interpret results carefully before choosing a public school for their child today.