For the 2026 school year, there are 3 public schools serving 2,193 students in 28461, NC (there are , serving 140 private students). 94% of all K-12 students in 28461, NC are educated in public schools (compared to the NC state average of 92%).
The top-ranked public schools in 28461, NC are South Brunswick High School, Southport Elementary School and South Brunswick Middle School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Public schools in zipcode 28461 have an average math proficiency score of 57% (versus the North Carolina public school average of 51%), and reading proficiency score of 54% (versus the 50% statewide average). Schools in 28461, NC have an average ranking of 8/10, which is in the top 30% of North Carolina public schools.
Minority enrollment is 24% of the student body (majority Black), which is less than the North Carolina public school average of 57% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Best 28461, NC Public Schools (2026)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
South Brunswick High School
(Math: 75-79% | Reading: 53%)
Rank:
Rank:
8/
Top 30%10
280 Cougar Drive Bsl
Southport, NC 28461
(910) 756-6880
Southport, NC 28461
(910) 756-6880
Gr: 9-12 | 1,182 student Student-teacher ratio: 17:1 Minority enrollment: 23%
Rank: #22.
Southport Elementary School
(Math: 63% | Reading: 62%)
Rank:
Rank:
8/
Top 30%10
701 West 9th Street
Southport, NC 28461
(910) 457-6036
Southport, NC 28461
(910) 457-6036
Gr: PK-5 | 420 students Student-teacher ratio: 15:1 Minority enrollment: 25%
Rank: #33.
South Brunswick Middle School
(Math: 52% | Reading: 51%)
Rank:
Rank:
6/
Top 50%10
100 Cougar Drive Bsl
Southport, NC 28461
(910) 756-6870
Southport, NC 28461
(910) 756-6870
Gr: 6-8 | 591 students Student-teacher ratio: 16:1 Minority enrollment: 24%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public schools in 28461, NC?
The top-ranked public schools in 28461, NC include South Brunswick High School, Southport Elementary School and South Brunswick Middle School.
How many public schools are located in 28461?
3 public schools are located in 28461.
What percentage of students in 28461 go to public school?
94% of all K-12 students in 28461 are educated in public schools (compared to the NC state average of 92%).
What is the racial composition of students in 28461?
28461 public schools minority enrollment is 24% of the student body (majority Black), 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.
