For the 2025 school year, there are 4 public schools serving 1,804 students in Wilkesboro, NC (there are , serving 111 private students). 94% of all K-12 students in Wilkesboro, NC are educated in public schools (compared to the NC state average of 92%).
The top ranked public schools in Wilkesboro, NC are Wilkes Early College High School, Wilkes Central High School and Wilkesboro Elementary School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Wilkesboro, NC public schools have an average math proficiency score of 60% (versus the North Carolina public school average of 51%), and reading proficiency score of 58% (versus the 50% statewide average). Schools in Wilkesboro have an average ranking of 9/10, which is in the top 20% of North Carolina public schools.
Minority enrollment is 34% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the North Carolina public school average of 57% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Best Public Schools in Wilkesboro, NC (2025)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Grades
Students
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
Grades: 9-13
| 228 students
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
Grades: 9-12
| 737 students
Rank: #33.
Wilkesboro Elementary School
(Math: 65-69% | Reading: 55-59%)
Rank:
Rank:
8/
Top 30%10
1248 School St
Wilkesboro, NC 28697
(336) 838-4261
Wilkesboro, NC 28697
(336) 838-4261
Grades: PK-5
| 389 students
Rank: #44.
West Wilkes Middle School
(Math: 53% | Reading: 56%)
Rank:
Rank:
7/
Top 50%10
1677 North Nc Hwy 16
Wilkesboro, NC 28697
(336) 651-4381
Wilkesboro, NC 28697
(336) 651-4381
Grades: 6-8
| 450 students
Wilkesboro, North Carolina Public Schools (Closed)
School
Location
Grades
Students
374 Lincoln Heights Rd
Wilkesboro, NC 28697
(336) 667-3653
Wilkesboro, NC 28697
(336) 667-3653
Grades: 9-12
| n/a students
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top ranked public schools in Wilkesboro, NC?
The top ranked public schools in Wilkesboro, NC include Wilkes Early College High School, Wilkes Central High School and Wilkesboro Elementary School.
How many public schools are located in Wilkesboro?
4 public schools are located in Wilkesboro.
What percentage of students in Wilkesboro go to public school?
94% of all K-12 students in Wilkesboro are educated in public schools (compared to the NC state average of 92%).
What is the racial composition of students in Wilkesboro?
Wilkesboro public schools minority enrollment is 34% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the North Carolina public schools average of 57% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Which public schools in Wilkesboro are often viewed compared to one another?
Popular comparisons of public schools in Wilkesboro include: Wilkes Early College High School vs. Wilkes Central High School
Recent Articles
Segregation in K-12 Education: Colonial Era
Explore the origins of educational segregation during the colonial era and the differential treatment of Native American, African American, and white students. This article delves into the historical context, policies, and societal attitudes that shaped early education in colonial America, highlighting the disparities and injustices that persisted within the schooling systems of that time.
2011 Classroom Size Update: Are Classes Still Growing Larger?
Since the recession, public school classrooms have seen major budget cuts - and many increases in class sizes. How is the situation in 2011? Read this article to find out.
Will Single Sex Classrooms Save Public Schools?
Learn about the benefits of single sex classrooms and why public schools are hoping this type of classroom will save the American school system.