Best Public Schools in Asheville, NC

The Asheville, North Carolina area is home to 34 schools across two school districts - Buncombe County Schools and Asheville City Schools. The schools serve a diverse student population, ranging from high-performing charter schools like Nesbitt Discovery Academy to traditional public schools with significant socioeconomic challenges.

Several schools stand out for their exceptional academic performance, including Nesbitt Discovery Academy, which ranked 16th out of 640 North Carolina high schools, and Early College, which ranked 94th. The Evergreen Community Charter school also had impressive proficiency rates across multiple grade levels and subjects. In contrast, some schools like Oakley Elementary, with a 99% free/reduced lunch rate, struggled with only 27.8% of 4th graders proficient in reading.

The data reveals significant performance gaps between schools, often along socioeconomic and racial lines. The Asheville City school district generally outperforms the larger Buncombe County district, with more 4- and 5-star schools. Specialized schools, such as early college and STEM-focused programs, are also producing exceptional results compared to the broader population.