For the 2026-27 school year, there are 2 public high schools serving 954 students in 28697, NC.
The top-ranked public high schools in 28697, NC are Wilkes Early College High School and Wilkes Central High School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Public high schools in zipcode 28697 have an average math proficiency score of 87% (versus the North Carolina public high school average of 58%), and reading proficiency score of 64% (versus the 58% statewide average). High schools in 28697, NC have an average ranking of 9/10, which is in the top 20% of North Carolina public high schools.
Public high school in zipcode 28697 have a Graduation Rate of 88%, which is more than the North Carolina average of 86%.
The school with highest graduation rate is Wilkes Early College High School, with ≥90% graduation rate. Read more about public school graduation rate statistics in North Carolina or national school graduation rate statistics.
Minority enrollment is 42% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the North Carolina public high school average of 56% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Best 28697, NC Public High Schools (2026-27)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Wilkes Early College High School
(Math: ≥90% | Reading: ≥90%)
Rank:
Rank:
10/
Top 1%10
1328 S Collegiate Dr
Wilkesboro, NC 28697
(336) 838-6247
Wilkesboro, NC 28697
(336) 838-6247
Gr: 9-13 | 235 students Student-teacher ratio: 26:1 Minority enrollment: 23%
Rank: #22.
Wilkes Central High School
(Math: 80-89% | Reading: 55-59%)
Rank:
Rank:
9/
Top 20%10
1179 Moravian Falls Rd
Wilkesboro, NC 28697
(336) 667-5277
Wilkesboro, NC 28697
(336) 667-5277
Gr: 9-12 | 719 students Student-teacher ratio: 15:1 Minority enrollment: 49%
28697, North Carolina Public Schools (Closed)
School
Location
Quick Facts
374 Lincoln Heights Rd
Wilkesboro, NC 28697
(336) 667-3653
Wilkesboro, NC 28697
(336) 667-3653
Gr: 9-12
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public high schools in 28697, NC?
The top-ranked public high schools in 28697, NC include Wilkes Early College High School and Wilkes Central High School.
How many public high schools are located in 28697?
2 public high schools are located in 28697.
What is the racial composition of students in 28697?
28697 public high schools minority enrollment is 42% 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
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.