For the 2026 school year, there are 2 public elementary schools serving 1,268 students in Central, SC.
The top-ranked public elementary schools in Central, SC are R. C. Edwards Middle School and Central Academy Of The Arts. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Central, SC public elementary schools have an average math proficiency score of 48% (versus the South Carolina public elementary school average of 41%), and reading proficiency score of 56% (versus the 47% statewide average). Elementary schools in Central have an average ranking of 9/10, which is in the top 20% of South Carolina public elementary schools.
Minority enrollment is 31% of the student body (majority Black and Hispanic), which is less than the South Carolina public elementary school average of 53% (majority Black).
Best Public Elementary Schools in Central, SC (2026)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
R. C. Edwards Middle School
(Math: 47% | Reading: 58%)
Rank:
Rank:
7/
Top 50%10
1157 Madden Bridge Road
Central, SC 29630
(864) 397-4200
Central, SC 29630
(864) 397-4200
Gr: 6-8 | 783 students Student-teacher ratio: 16:1 Minority enrollment: 26%
Rank: #22.
Central Academy Of The Arts
(Math: 54% | Reading: 46%)
Rank:
Rank:
6/
Top 50%10
608 Johnson Road
Central, SC 29630
(864) 397-1400
Central, SC 29630
(864) 397-1400
Gr: PK-5 | 485 students Student-teacher ratio: 14:1 Minority enrollment: 40%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public elementary schools in Central, SC?
The top-ranked public elementary schools in Central, SC include R. C. Edwards Middle School and Central Academy Of The Arts.
How many public elementary schools are located in Central?
2 public elementary schools are located in Central.
What is the racial composition of students in Central?
Central public elementary schools minority enrollment is 31% of the student body (majority Black and Hispanic), which is less than the South Carolina public elementary schools average of 53% (majority Black).
Recent Articles
What It Takes to Run a Public School Day-to-Day
Explore what it takes to run a public school daily, from leadership and staffing to budgeting, safety, and student support systems.
Restorative Justice in Schools: What the Data Shows
Explore restorative justice in schools, including discipline data, outcomes, and implementation insights for educators and families.
Year-Round School Calendars: Pros, Cons, Research
Explore year-round school calendars, including benefits, drawbacks, and what academic research says about student outcomes.