For the 2026 school year, there is 1 public school serving 468 students in Willard, NC (there are 1 private school, serving 49 private students). 91% of all K-12 students in Willard, NC are educated in public schools (compared to the NC state average of 92%).
The top-ranked public school in Willard, NC is Penderlea Elementary School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Willard, NC public school have an average math proficiency score of 43% (versus the North Carolina public school average of 51%), and reading proficiency score of 41% (versus the 50% statewide average). Schools in Willard have an average ranking of 3/10, which is in the bottom 50% of North Carolina public schools.
Minority enrollment is 50% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the North Carolina public school average of 58% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Best Public Schools in Willard, NC (2026)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Penderlea Elementary School
(Math: 43% | Reading: 41%)
Rank:
Rank:
4/
Bottom 50%10
11 Garden Road
Willard, NC 28478
(910) 285-2761
Willard, NC 28478
(910) 285-2761
Gr: K-8 | 468 students Student-teacher ratio: 14:1 Minority enrollment: 50%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public schools in Willard, NC?
The top-ranked public schools in Willard, NC include Penderlea Elementary School.
How many public schools are located in Willard?
1 public schools are located in Willard.
What percentage of students in Willard go to public school?
91% of all K-12 students in Willard are educated in public schools (compared to the NC state average of 92%).
What is the racial composition of students in Willard?
Willard public schools minority enrollment is 50% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the North Carolina public schools average of 58% (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.
