For the 2025 school year, there are 2 public schools serving 648 students in Columbus, NC.
The top ranked public schools in Columbus, NC are Polk County High School and Polk County Early College. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Columbus, NC public schools have an average math proficiency score of 71% (versus the North Carolina public school average of 51%), and reading proficiency score of 68% (versus the 50% statewide average). Schools in Columbus have an average ranking of 10/10, which is in the top 10% of North Carolina public schools.
Minority enrollment is 25% 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 Columbus, NC (2025)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Grades
Students
Rank: #11.
Polk County High School
(Math: 70-79% | Reading: 65-69%)
Rank:
Rank:
9/
Top 20%10
1681 East Nc 108 Hwy
Columbus, NC 28722
(828) 894-2525
Columbus, NC 28722
(828) 894-2525
Grades: 9-12
| 593 students
Rank: #22.
Polk County Early College
(Math: ≥50% | Reading: ≥80%)
Rank:
Rank:
8/
Top 30%10
1545 East Nc 108 Hwy
Columbus, NC 28722
(828) 894-2698
Columbus, NC 28722
(828) 894-2698
Grades: 9-12
| 55 students
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top ranked public schools in Columbus, NC?
The top ranked public schools in Columbus, NC include Polk County High School and Polk County Early College.
How many public schools are located in Columbus?
2 public schools are located in Columbus.
What is the racial composition of students in Columbus?
Columbus public schools minority enrollment is 25% 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 Columbus are often viewed compared to one another?
Popular comparisons of public schools in Columbus include: Polk County High School vs. Polk County Early College
Recent Articles
Understanding Self-Contained Classrooms in Public Schools
Learn about the history of public schools incorporating self-contained classrooms, and whether they are right for your child.
Can Naviance Succeed Improve College and Career Readiness?
Learn about a new student assessment system, Naviance Succeed, which provides tools and support to increase student college and career readiness. A number of school districts are using the tool this year in hopes of improving student performance through more accurate assessment process than are currently available.
Do You Need After School Day Care? Public Schools May Be the Solution
Learn about how your child's public school may be the best source of after school and vacation day care.