For the 2026-27 school year, there is 1 public school serving 468 students in 28478, NC (there are 1 private school, serving 49 private students). 91% of all K-12 students in 28478, NC are educated in public schools (compared to the NC state average of 92%).
The top-ranked public school in 28478, NC is Penderlea Elementary School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Public school in zipcode 28478 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 28478, NC 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 28478, NC Public Schools (2026-27)
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 28478, NC?
The top-ranked public schools in 28478, NC include Penderlea Elementary School.
How many public schools are located in 28478?
1 public schools are located in 28478.
What percentage of students in 28478 go to public school?
91% of all K-12 students in 28478 are educated in public schools (compared to the NC state average of 92%).
What is the racial composition of students in 28478?
28478 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).
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