Charlotte, North Carolina, is growing for a variety of reasons, and one of those is that families are drawn to great schools. The city doesn't just offer great private schools; it also has some of the best public schools. The city has outstanding options if you're searching for a top-rated public school with a strong academic record or a private school with a tailored curriculum and small class sizes. This guide explores the top schools in Charlotte, helping you make informed decisions about your children's education.
the best public elementary schools
Are you looking for the best public kindergarten in Charlotte, NC? Beginning your child's education journey can feel daunting, but the right school can set you up for success. If you have younger children, choosing the best Charlotte elementary school is just as important as selecting a high school. These top-rated public elementary schools provide a strong academic foundation and an engaging, supportive environment.
1. Hawk Ridge Elementary School
Located in Ballantyne, Hawk Ridge Elementary School is recognized for its academic excellence, strong community involvement, and focus on STEM education. The school encourages early literacy development and hands-on learning experiences. If you love this area of South Charlotte, it may pay to check to see which homes or plots of land feed into this school.
2. Polo Ridge Elementary School
One of the highest-rated elementary schools in Charlotte, Polo Ridge Elementary School, located in the popular 28277 zip code, offers a balanced curriculum integrating STEM programs, arts education, and experiential, hands-on learning. This incredible educational opportunity is yet another reason to live in this gorgeous part of the city.
3. Elon Park Elementary School
A standout choice for families in Ballantyne, Elon Park Elementary School prioritizes academic achievement, technological integration, and cultural diversity, creating a modern and inclusive learning environment. This is another great option in the city, particularly if you're interested in modern learning styles.
Top-Rated Public Middle Schools
Middle school is a critical time for students, where academic foundations are solidified, confidence is built, and curiosity is encouraged. In South Charlotte, exceptional middle schools offer challenging academics, diverse extracurriculars, and supportive communities to help students thrive. Here are 3 of the best middle schools in Charlotte.
1. Alexander Graham Middle School
Another Myers Park educational gem, Alexander Graham Middle School, offers a rich blend of tradition and innovation. With a strong emphasis on academic excellence, the school provides various programs catering to diverse student interests. Beyond the classroom, your student can engage in numerous extracurricular activities, fostering both personal and intellectual development.
2. Carmel Middle School
Located near the upscale SouthPark area, Carmel Middle School is renowned for its commitment to delivering rigorous and equitable instruction to all students. With a dedicated team of educators and a comprehensive curriculum, the school consistently meets or exceeds state and national goals. Your student can benefit from a wide array of academic and extracurricular programs, giving a holistic educational experience.
3. Community House Middle School
Situated in the thriving Ballantyne area, Community House Middle School is celebrated for its high academic standards and vibrant school culture. The school offers a diverse range of programs in STEM, arts, athletics, and leadership, allowing students to explore and develop their passions. The dedicated faculty and staff are committed to nurturing each student's potential, preparing them for future academic endeavors.
Thinking about high school?
Does Charlotte have a good education system? South Charlotte is home to some of the best public high schools in North Carolina, known for their academic rigor, competitive athletics, and expansive extracurricular opportunities. If you've found a great elementary school, you likely found a great middle school that it fed into. But what about high school? Below, you'll find 5 of the best public high schools in Charlotte, North Carolina.
1. Ardrey Kell High School
Located in Ballantyne, Ardrey Kell High School is consistently ranked among North Carolina’s top public schools. Its strong AP course offerings, Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs, and championship-winning athletics create an environment where students thrive academically and socially. The variety of offerings help make this school a solid choice for anyone.
2. Ballantyne Ridge High School
The newest public high school in Charlotte, Ballantyne Ridge High School, opened in 2024 with cutting-edge facilities and an International Baccalaureate (IB) program. Designed to serve the rapidly growing Ballantyne community, this school offers a modern approach to education, focusing on global learning and technology integration. Your student will love going to this brand-new, state-of-the-art campus.
3. Myers Park High School
Are you looking for a school with a rich history and a reputation for academic excellence? Myers Park High School features one of Charlotte’s most established IB programs, a wide range of AP courses, and an exceptional arts program. The school’s beautiful, collegiate-style campus adds to its prestige. It's not a surprise that this is one of the best high schools in Charlotte.
4. Providence High School
Consistently ranked among North Carolina’s top-performing public schools, Providence High School is known for its strong SAT/ACT scores, diverse AP curriculum, and highly competitive athletics. The school provides a dynamic learning environment that prepares students for top-tier universities. If you're looking for a high school that has continuously been listed at the top, this may be the place for your budding learner.
5. South Mecklenburg High School
South Mecklenburg High School, located in the SouthPark area, is a World Languages Magnet School offering a diverse international curriculum. With a strong STEM program, multiple foreign language courses, and a culturally rich student body, it provides a global perspective on education. If your student shows an aptitude for foreign languages, this may be the right school for your family.
Looking at Private Schools in Charlotte, NC
What are the key differences between public and private schools? Namely, private schools require tuition, but you can live anywhere in the city (or outside of it), and public schools are based on where you live.
If you're looking for an exceptional private education with personalized instruction, smaller class sizes, and specialized programs, Charlotte’s private schools offer a range of outstanding options. No school is right for everyone, but many private schools offer K-12 classes, meaning your children can stay at the same school throughout their academic career. Below, you'll find just a few of the best private schools in Charlotte.
1. Charlotte Catholic High School
A premier faith-based institution that blends rigorous academics, leadership development, and championship-level athletics, Charlotte Catholic High School provides an excellent college-prep experience. It also offers a wide range of scholarships and financial help, making it so more students can benefit from one of the best private schools in Charlotte.
Tuition
- Catholic Rate: $13,635
- Non-Catholic Rate: $19,521
- These rates may vary based on your financial situation and the number of students you enroll.
2. Charlotte Christian School
Charlotte Christian School delivers a Christ-centered education with a strong focus on college readiness, performing arts, and competitive athletics. Students benefit from a well-rounded curriculum designed to nurture academic and personal growth. Tuition at Charlotte Christian School covers more than just education; it covers an entire world of learning.
Tuition
- Lower School (K-5): $18,940
- Middle School (6-8): $20,980
- Upper School (9-12): $22,600
- Your final cost will be based on the number of children you enroll and their specific grades. Financial assistance is available.
3. Charlotte Country Day School
Tuition
- Junior Kindergarten: $22,190
- Kindergarten: $23,275
- Grades 1-4: $27,530
- Grades 5-8: $29,640
- Grades 9-12: $30,880
- Country Day School is an investment in your family's future. The school works diligently to ensure that you can examine all your options regarding tuition and financial arrangements.
4. Charlotte Latin School
Charlotte Latin School fosters a culture of academic excellence, leadership, and character development. With small class sizes, an exceptional faculty, and elite athletics, it prepares students for future success. This prep school runs K-12, giving every student the gift of lifelong learning throughout their educational career.
Tuition
- Transitional Kindergarten & Kindergarten: $23,750
- Grades 1-5: $28,950
- Grades 6-8: $31,700
- Grades 9-12: $32,900
- Education at Charlotte Latin School is seen as an investment. Financial aid for tuition is available for those who may need it.
5. Providence Day School
Tuition
-
Transitional Kindergarten: $23,040
-
Kindergarten: $25,300
-
Grades 1-5: $29,770
- Grades 6-12: $32,810
- Tuition plans and assistance are available due to the size of this investment.
These distinguished schools not only provide a solid academic foundation but also cultivate environments where students can thrive socially and emotionally. As you consider building, remodeling, or investing in a home in South Charlotte, choosing a community with access to such reputable schools is a prudent and valuable decision for your family's future.
The Charlotte Lifestyle
There’s a reason so many families choose to call this city home. This city blends Southern charm with modern convenience, offering a lifestyle that’s as welcoming as it is dynamic. With mild, year-round weather, you can enjoy everything from outdoor dining to afternoons on the greenway, all set against a backdrop of historic tree-lined streets and a thriving urban center.
Educational Draw
But one of the biggest draws? Top-tier schools. Do more kids go to public or private schools in Charlotte? We're lucky to have a great mixture in the city. Whether it’s highly rated public schools or prestigious private academies, Charlotte offers families exceptional educational opportunities.
Where you choose to live plays a big role in access to these schools. That’s why investing in the right home, finding the perfect lot, building, and remodeling in a neighborhood you already love are some of the smartest decisions you can make.
A home in a great school district benefits your family today and strengthens long-term property value, making it a sound investment in both lifestyle and future growth. You can examine the cost of land in Charlotte and determine if purchasing a plot is a wise decision for your family.
Working with Simonini Homes
When you work with our team at Simonini Homes, you work with a builder and remodeler who knows and loves Charlotte. We're not just here to build custom homes and remodel existing ones; we're here to guide you on your lifestyle journey. You can take a look at our gallery and imagine what is possible.
Contact Us
If you're interested in building or remodeling a home in Charlotte, we'd love to work with you. Contact us today to get started.
