For the 2026 school year, there are 2 public high schools serving 661 students in Valdese, NC.
The top-ranked public high school in Valdese, NC is Draughn High School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Valdese, NC public high schools have an average math proficiency score of 87% (versus the North Carolina public high school average of 58%), and reading proficiency score of 62% (versus the 58% statewide average). High schools in Valdese have an average ranking of 9/10, which is in the top 20% of North Carolina public high schools.
Valdese, NC public high school have a Graduation Rate of 95%, which is more than the North Carolina average of 86%.
The school with highest graduation rate is Draughn 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 25% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the North Carolina public high school average of 56% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Best Public High Schools in Valdese, NC (2026)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Draughn High School
(Math: 85-89% | Reading: 60-64%)
Rank:
Rank:
9/
Top 20%10
709 Lovelady Road Ne
Valdese, NC 28690
(828) 879-4200
Valdese, NC 28690
(828) 879-4200
Gr: 9-12 | 661 students Student-teacher ratio: 28:1 Minority enrollment: 25%
Rank: n/an/a
Heritage Middle School, 1951 E
Valdese, NC 28690
(828) 448-3175
Valdese, NC 28690
(828) 448-3175
Gr: K-12
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public high schools in Valdese, NC?
The top-ranked public high schools in Valdese, NC include Draughn High School.
How many public high schools are located in Valdese?
2 public high schools are located in Valdese.
What is the racial composition of students in Valdese?
Valdese public high schools minority enrollment is 25% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the North Carolina public high schools average of 56% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Recent Articles
Gifted, Honors, and Advanced Tracks: Are They Accessible or Just Advertised?
Learn how to evaluate gifted, honors, and advanced academic programs in public schools, including admission criteria, equity, and the questions every parent should ask.
Algebra Readiness: What Parents Should Ask Before Middle School
Discover how to determine if your child is ready for algebra before middle school, including the questions parents should ask and the skills students need to succeed.
How to Evaluate Reading Instruction in Your Zoned Elementary School
Learn how to evaluate reading instruction in your neighborhood elementary school by recognizing effective literacy practices, asking the right questions, and understanding what quality reading instruction looks like.