For the 2026-27 school year, there are 2 public schools serving 545 students in 28160, NC (there are 1 private school, serving 96 private students). 85% of all K-12 students in 28160, NC are educated in public schools (compared to the NC state average of 92%).
The top-ranked public schools in 28160, NC are Rutherford Early College High School and Spindale Elementary School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Public schools in zipcode 28160 have an average math proficiency score of 55% (versus the North Carolina public school average of 51%), and reading proficiency score of 45% (versus the 50% statewide average). Schools in 28160, NC have an average ranking of 6/10, which is in the top 50% of North Carolina public schools.
Minority enrollment is 42% of the student body (majority Black), which is less than the North Carolina public school average of 58% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Best 28160, NC Public Schools (2026-27)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Rutherford Early College High School
(Math: 80-89% | Reading: 80-89%)
Rank:
Rank:
10/
Top 5%10
286 Icc Loop Road
Spindale, NC 28160
(828) 288-2202
Spindale, NC 28160
(828) 288-2202
Gr: 9-13 | 208 students Student-teacher ratio: 52:1 Minority enrollment: 28%
Rank: #22.
Spindale Elementary School
(Math: 45-49% | Reading: 30-34%)
Rank:
Rank:
4/
Bottom 50%10
161 N Oak St
Spindale, NC 28160
(828) 286-2861
Spindale, NC 28160
(828) 286-2861
Gr: PK-5 | 337 students Student-teacher ratio: 17:1 Minority enrollment: 50%
28160, North Carolina Public Schools (Closed)
School
Location
Quick Facts
Carver Center (Closed 2004)
Alternative School
900 Carver St
Spindale, NC 28160
(828) 286-3901
Spindale, NC 28160
(828) 286-3901
Gr: PK | 206 students Minority enrollment: 40%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public schools in 28160, NC?
The top-ranked public schools in 28160, NC include Rutherford Early College High School and Spindale Elementary School.
How many public schools are located in 28160?
2 public schools are located in 28160.
What percentage of students in 28160 go to public school?
85% of all K-12 students in 28160 are educated in public schools (compared to the NC state average of 92%).
What is the racial composition of students in 28160?
28160 public schools minority enrollment is 42% of the student body (majority Black), which is less than the North Carolina public schools average of 58% (majority Black and Hispanic).
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