For the 2025-26 school year, there are 2 public elementary schools serving 1,159 students in 28097, NC.
The top-ranked public elementary schools in 28097, NC are Locust Elementary School and West Stanly Middle School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Public elementary schools in zipcode 28097 have an average math proficiency score of 59% (versus the North Carolina public elementary school average of 50%), and reading proficiency score of 60% (versus the 49% statewide average). Elementary schools in 28097, NC have an average ranking of 8/10, which is in the top 30% of North Carolina public elementary schools.
Minority enrollment is 27% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the North Carolina public elementary school average of 57% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Best 28097, NC Public Elementary Schools (2025-26)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Locust Elementary School
(Math: 75-79% | Reading: 65-69%)
Rank:
Rank:
9/
Top 20%10
103 School Rd
Locust, NC 28097
(704) 961-5500
Locust, NC 28097
(704) 961-5500
Gr: K-5 | 526 students Student-teacher ratio: 15:1 Minority enrollment: 26%
Rank: #22.
West Stanly Middle School
(Math: 53% | Reading: 58%)
Rank:
Rank:
7/
Top 50%10
339 Running Creek Church Rd
Locust, NC 28097
(704) 961-3600
Locust, NC 28097
(704) 961-3600
Gr: 6-8 | 633 students Student-teacher ratio: 17:1 Minority enrollment: 27%
28097, North Carolina Public Schools (Closed)
School
Location
Quick Facts
24791 Millingport Rd
Locust, NC 28097
(704) 485-3825
Locust, NC 28097
(704) 485-3825
Gr: K-6 | 211 students Student-teacher ratio: 13:1 Minority enrollment: 4%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public elementary schools in 28097, NC?
The top-ranked public elementary schools in 28097, NC include Locust Elementary School and West Stanly Middle School.
How many public elementary schools are located in 28097?
2 public elementary schools are located in 28097.
What is the racial composition of students in 28097?
28097 public elementary schools minority enrollment is 27% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the North Carolina public elementary schools average of 57% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Recent Articles
Public School Open House & Enrollment Season Guide for Parents
Learn what to ask at a public school open house during enrollment season, from academics to safety, to choose the right school for your child.
School Zoning Changes 2026: How Assignments May Shift
School Zoning Changes 2026 could affect your child’s school assignment. Learn how zoning works, what is changing, and how families can prepare.
School Vouchers: Updated Pros and Cons (2025 Review)
Comprehensive 2025 analysis of school vouchers, weighing benefits and challenges for families, funding, outcomes, and policy directions.