For the 2026-27 school year, there is 1 public high school serving 376 students in 28602, NC.
The top-ranked public high school in 28602, NC is Challenger Early College High School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Public high school in zipcode 28602 have an average math proficiency score of 50% (versus the North Carolina public high school average of 58%), and reading proficiency score of 95% (versus the 58% statewide average). High schools in 28602, NC have an average ranking of 8/10, which is in the top 30% of North Carolina public high schools.
Public high school in zipcode 28602 have a Graduation Rate of 95%, which is more than the North Carolina average of 86%.
The school with highest graduation rate is Challenger Early College High School, with ≥95% graduation rate. Read more about public school graduation rate statistics in North Carolina or national school graduation rate statistics.
Minority enrollment is 65% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is more than the North Carolina public high school average of 56% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Best 28602, NC Public High Schools (2026-27)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Challenger Early College High School
(Math: ≥50% | Reading: ≥95%)
Rank:
Rank:
8/
Top 30%10
2550 Hwy 70 Se
Hickory, NC 28602
(828) 485-2980
Hickory, NC 28602
(828) 485-2980
Gr: 9-12 | 376 students Student-teacher ratio: 34:1 Minority enrollment: 65%
28602, North Carolina Public Schools (Closed)
School
Location
Quick Facts
2110 Main Avenue Se
Hickory, NC 28602
(828) 327-3689
Hickory, NC 28602
(828) 327-3689
Gr: PK-6 | 326 students Student-teacher ratio: 12:1 Minority enrollment: 74%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public high schools in 28602, NC?
The top-ranked public high schools in 28602, NC include Challenger Early College High School.
How many public high schools are located in 28602?
1 public high schools are located in 28602.
What is the racial composition of students in 28602?
28602 public high schools minority enrollment is 65% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is more than the North Carolina public high schools average of 56% (majority Black and Hispanic).
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