For the 2026 school year, there are 3 public middle schools serving 1,587 students in 28786, NC.
The top-ranked public middle schools in 28786, NC are Bethel Middle School, Waynesville Middle School and Shining Rock Classical Academy. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Public middle schools in zipcode 28786 have an average math proficiency score of 55% (versus the North Carolina public middle school average of 48%), and reading proficiency score of 56% (versus the 50% statewide average). Middle schools in 28786, NC have an average ranking of 8/10, which is in the top 30% of North Carolina public middle schools.
Minority enrollment is 14% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the North Carolina public middle school average of 56% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Best 28786, NC Public Middle Schools (2026)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Bethel Middle School
(Math: 76% | Reading: 63%)
Rank:
Rank:
9/
Top 20%10
630 Sonoma Road
Waynesville, NC 28786
(828) 646-3442
Waynesville, NC 28786
(828) 646-3442
Gr: 6-8 | 249 students Student-teacher ratio: 14:1 Minority enrollment: 10%
Rank: #22.
Waynesville Middle School
(Math: 52% | Reading: 55%)
Rank:
Rank:
6/
Top 50%10
495 Brown Ave
Waynesville, NC 28786
(828) 456-2403
Waynesville, NC 28786
(828) 456-2403
Gr: 6-8 | 708 students Student-teacher ratio: 16:1 Minority enrollment: 17%
Rank: #33.
Shining Rock Classical Academy
Charter School
(Math: 48% | Reading: 55%)
Rank:
Rank:
6/
Top 50%10
2150 Russ Avenue
Waynesville, NC 28786
(828) 476-5150
Waynesville, NC 28786
(828) 476-5150
Gr: K-11 | 630 students Student-teacher ratio: 12:1 Minority enrollment: 14%
28786, North Carolina Public Schools (Closed)
School
Location
Quick Facts
62 Joy Lane
Waynesville, NC 28786
(828) 456-2405
Waynesville, NC 28786
(828) 456-2405
Gr: PK-5 | 248 students Student-teacher ratio: 12:1
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public middle schools in 28786, NC?
The top-ranked public middle schools in 28786, NC include Bethel Middle School, Waynesville Middle School and Shining Rock Classical Academy.
How many public middle schools are located in 28786?
3 public middle schools are located in 28786.
What is the racial composition of students in 28786?
28786 public middle schools minority enrollment is 14% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the North Carolina public middle schools average of 56% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Recent Articles
Back-to-School Tech & Online Learning Readiness Checklist
A 2026 guide to back-to-school tech & online learning readiness, helping families prepare devices, connectivity, skills, and safety.
How Public Schools Prepare for College in High School
Learn how public schools prepare for college and what parents should look for as students begin high school. Updated for 2026.
School Choice in 2026: What Parents Must Know
Explore how school choice is reshaping U.S. education in 2026, with updated trends, enrollment data, costs, policies, and practical guidance for parents.