For the 2026 school year, there are 2 public schools serving 1,091 students in Carlisle, KY.
The top-ranked public schools in Carlisle, KY are Nicholas County High School and Nicholas County Elementary School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Carlisle, KY public schools have an average math proficiency score of 31% (versus the Kentucky public school average of 39%), and reading proficiency score of 37% (versus the 45% statewide average). Schools in Carlisle have an average ranking of 2/10, which is in the bottom 50% of Kentucky public schools.
Minority enrollment is 7% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Kentucky public school average of 28% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Best Public Schools in Carlisle, KY (2026)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Nicholas County High School
(Math: 36% | Reading: 39%)
Rank:
Rank:
4/
Bottom 50%10
103 School Dr
Carlisle, KY 40311
(859) 289-3780
Carlisle, KY 40311
(859) 289-3780
Gr: 7-12 | 446 students Student-teacher ratio: 17:1 Minority enrollment: 7%
Rank: #22.
Nicholas County Elementary School
(Math: 26% | Reading: 35%)
Rank:
Rank:
3/
Bottom 50%10
133 School Drive
Carlisle, KY 40311
(859) 289-3785
Carlisle, KY 40311
(859) 289-3785
Gr: PK-6 | 645 students Student-teacher ratio: 16:1 Minority enrollment: 7%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public schools in Carlisle, KY?
The top-ranked public schools in Carlisle, KY include Nicholas County High School and Nicholas County Elementary School.
How many public schools are located in Carlisle?
2 public schools are located in Carlisle.
What is the racial composition of students in Carlisle?
Carlisle public schools minority enrollment is 7% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Kentucky public schools average of 28% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Recent Articles
Year-Round Schooling in 2026: Updated Parent Guide
Explore the latest 2026 data, trends, costs, and parent planning tips in the ongoing debate over year-round schooling vs the traditional calendar.
No Child Left Behind: Past, Present, and Future of U.S. School Policy
Explore how No Child Left Behind evolved into ESSA, what it means for 2025‑26 schooling, and what parents need to know about testing, admissions planning, and funding.
Understanding Public School Fees & Optional Costs Guide
Discover what public school fees are required versus optional, with 2026 updates for parents, students, and educators on budgeting and planning.