For the 2026 school year, there are 4 public schools serving 3,603 students in 28445, NC.
The top-ranked public schools in 28445, NC are Surf City Elementary School, Dixon High School and Coastal Elementary School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Public schools in zipcode 28445 have an average math proficiency score of 67% (versus the North Carolina public school average of 51%), and reading proficiency score of 64% (versus the 50% statewide average). Schools in 28445, NC have an average ranking of 9/10, which is in the top 20% of North Carolina public schools.
Minority enrollment is 24% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the North Carolina public school average of 57% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Best 28445, NC Public Schools (2026)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Surf City Elementary School
(Math: 74% | Reading: 65%)
Rank:
Rank:
9/
Top 20%10
12345-a Literacy Lane
Holly Ridge, NC 28445
(910) 928-0067
Holly Ridge, NC 28445
(910) 928-0067
Gr: PK-5 | 850 students Student-teacher ratio: 17:1 Minority enrollment: 20%
Rank: #22.
Dixon High School
(Math: 70-74% | Reading: 62%)
Rank:
Rank:
9/
Top 20%10
160 Dixon School Rd
Holly Ridge, NC 28445
(910) 347-2958
Holly Ridge, NC 28445
(910) 347-2958
Gr: 9-12 | 1,187 student Student-teacher ratio: 19:1 Minority enrollment: 26%
Rank: #33.
Coastal Elementary School
(Math: 63% | Reading: 65%)
Rank:
Rank:
8/
Top 30%10
370 Folkstone Rd
Holly Ridge, NC 28445
(910) 455-2448
Holly Ridge, NC 28445
(910) 455-2448
Gr: K-5 | 832 students Student-teacher ratio: 15:1 Minority enrollment: 24%
Rank: #44.
Dixon Elementary School
(Math: 60% | Reading: 65%)
Rank:
Rank:
8/
Top 30%10
130 Betty Dixon Rd
Holly Ridge, NC 28445
(910) 327-2104
Holly Ridge, NC 28445
(910) 327-2104
Gr: PK-5 | 734 students Student-teacher ratio: 16:1 Minority enrollment: 23%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public schools in 28445, NC?
The top-ranked public schools in 28445, NC include Surf City Elementary School, Dixon High School and Coastal Elementary School.
How many public schools are located in 28445?
4 public schools are located in 28445.
What is the racial composition of students in 28445?
28445 public schools minority enrollment is 24% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the North Carolina public schools average of 57% (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.