For the 2026 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)
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%
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
What Rising E-Bike and Traffic Concerns Mean for School Commutes
Discover how rising e-bike use and increasing traffic are changing school commutes, and what parents should evaluate before choosing a public school.
School Safety Beyond Lockdowns: What Parents Should Review
Learn how to evaluate a public school's safety beyond lockdown drills, including school climate, emergency planning, mental health support, and communication.
How to Judge Special Education Capacity Before You Enroll
Learn how to evaluate a public school's special education capacity before enrolling your child, from staffing and IEP implementation to inclusion and support services.