For the 2026 school year, there are 3 public elementary schools serving 1,177 students in Rutherfordton, NC.
The top-ranked public elementary schools in Rutherfordton, NC are Pinnacle Elementary School, Rutherfordton Elementary School and R-s Middle School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Rutherfordton, NC public elementary schools have an average math proficiency score of 51% (versus the North Carolina public elementary school average of 50%), and reading proficiency score of 52% (versus the 49% statewide average). Elementary schools in Rutherfordton have an average ranking of 7/10, which is in the top 50% of North Carolina public elementary schools.
Minority enrollment is 29% of the student body (majority Black), which is less than the North Carolina public elementary school average of 57% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Best Public Elementary Schools in Rutherfordton, NC (2026)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Pinnacle Elementary School
(Math: 65-69% | Reading: 60-64%)
Rank:
Rank:
9/
Top 20%10
1204 Painters Gap Road
Rutherfordton, NC 28139
(828) 287-3440
Rutherfordton, NC 28139
(828) 287-3440
Gr: PK-5 | 227 students Student-teacher ratio: 14:1 Minority enrollment: 18%
Rank: #22.
Rutherfordton Elementary School
(Math: 50-54% | Reading: 50-54%)
Rank:
Rank:
6/
Top 50%10
201 Bob Hardin Road
Rutherfordton, NC 28139
(828) 287-3778
Rutherfordton, NC 28139
(828) 287-3778
Gr: PK-5 | 391 students Student-teacher ratio: 14:1 Minority enrollment: 33%
Rank: #33.
R-s Middle School
(Math: 48% | Reading: 50%)
Rank:
Rank:
5/
Bottom 50%10
607 Westbrook Dr.
Rutherfordton, NC 28139
(828) 286-4461
Rutherfordton, NC 28139
(828) 286-4461
Gr: 6-8 | 559 students Student-teacher ratio: 16:1 Minority enrollment: 31%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public elementary schools in Rutherfordton, NC?
The top-ranked public elementary schools in Rutherfordton, NC include Pinnacle Elementary School, Rutherfordton Elementary School and R-s Middle School.
How many public elementary schools are located in Rutherfordton?
3 public elementary schools are located in Rutherfordton.
What is the racial composition of students in Rutherfordton?
Rutherfordton public elementary schools minority enrollment is 29% of the student body (majority Black), which is less than the North Carolina public elementary schools average of 57% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Which public elementary schools in Rutherfordton are often viewed compared to one another?
Popular comparisons of public elementary schools in Rutherfordton include: Pinnacle Elementary School vs. Rutherfordton Elementary School
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.