For the 2026-27 school year, there are 2 public high schools serving 638 students in Lake Waccamaw, NC.
The top-ranked public high schools in Lake Waccamaw, NC are East Columbus Junior-senior High School and Thomas Academy. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Lake Waccamaw, NC public high schools have an average math proficiency score of 22% (versus the North Carolina public high school average of 58%), and reading proficiency score of 39% (versus the 58% statewide average). High schools in Lake Waccamaw have an average ranking of 1/10, which is in the bottom 50% of North Carolina public high schools.
Lake Waccamaw, NC public high school have a Graduation Rate of 81%, which is less than the North Carolina average of 86%.
The school with highest graduation rate is East Columbus Junior-senior High School, with 85-89% graduation rate. Read more about public school graduation rate statistics in North Carolina or national school graduation rate statistics.
Minority enrollment is 74% of the student body (majority Black), which is more than the North Carolina public high school average of 56% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Best Public High Schools in Lake Waccamaw, NC (2026-27)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
East Columbus Junior-senior High School
(Math: 23% | Reading: 42%)
Rank:
Rank:
3/
Bottom 50%10
32 Gator Lane
Lake Waccamaw, NC 28450
(910) 646-4094
Lake Waccamaw, NC 28450
(910) 646-4094
Gr: 7-12 | 576 students Student-teacher ratio: 17:1 Minority enrollment: 74%
Rank: #22.
Thomas Academy
Alternative School
Charter School
Charter School
(Math: 11-19% | Reading: 20-29%)
Rank:
Rank:
1/
Bottom 50%10
206-b Rube Mccray Circle
Lake Waccamaw, NC 28450
(910) 646-2237
Lake Waccamaw, NC 28450
(910) 646-2237
Gr: 6-12 | 62 students Student-teacher ratio: 9:1 Minority enrollment: 74%
Lake Waccamaw, North Carolina Public Schools (Closed)
School
Location
Quick Facts
Flemington Dr
Lake Waccamaw, NC 28450
(910) 646-3088
Lake Waccamaw, NC 28450
(910) 646-3088
Gr: 6-12 | 37 students Student-teacher ratio: 5:1 Minority enrollment: 57%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public high schools in Lake Waccamaw, NC?
The top-ranked public high schools in Lake Waccamaw, NC include East Columbus Junior-senior High School and Thomas Academy.
How many public high schools are located in Lake Waccamaw?
2 public high schools are located in Lake Waccamaw.
What is the racial composition of students in Lake Waccamaw?
Lake Waccamaw public high schools minority enrollment is 74% of the student body (majority Black), which is more than the North Carolina public high schools average of 56% (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.