North Carolina is known for its strong public education system and student-focused middle schools. Across cities like Charlotte and Greensboro, many schools emphasize academic excellence, STEM education, and balanced class sizes. This 2026 list of the best middle schools in North Carolina highlights top-performing schools that support grades 6–8 with structured learning, experienced teachers, and supportive environments for growing learners.
Best Middle Schools in North Carolina– Quick Comparison Table
| Rank | School Name | City | Grades | Students | Student–Teacher Ratio |
| #1 | Community House Middle | Charlotte | 6–8 | 415 | 19:1 |
| #2 | Kernodle Middle | Greensboro | 6–8 | 354 | 17:1 |
| #3 | Coulwood STEM Academy | Charlotte | 6–8 | 304 | 14:1 |
| #4 | Carmel Middle | Charlotte | 6–8 | 350 | 17:1 |
| #5 | Kiser Middle | Greensboro | 6–8 | 300 | 18:1 |
| #6 | Lincoln Academy | Greensboro | 4–8 | 310 | 16:1 |
| #7 | Gov’s Village STEM (Upper) | Charlotte | 5–8 | 671 | 18:1 |
| #8 | Eastway Middle | Charlotte | 6–8 | 268 | 15:1 |
| #9 | Jackson Middle | Greensboro | 6–8 | 287 | 16:1 |
| #10 | James Martin Middle | Charlotte | 6–8 | 345 | 17:1 |
🏫 Top 10 Best Middle Schools in North Carolina
1. Community House Middle School
Address: 9500 Community House Rd, Charlotte, NC 28277
Ranking: #1 Middle School in North Carolina
Grades: 6–8
Students: 415
Student–Teacher Ratio: 19:1
Link: Visit this school
Community House Middle School in Charlotte serves students in grades 6–8 and is known for its strong academic structure and active school culture. With a student–teacher ratio of about 19:1, the school balances classroom instruction with student participation. Teachers focus on core subjects while encouraging collaboration and responsibility, helping students prepare for the academic challenges of high school.
2. Kernodle Middle School
Address: 3600 Drawbridge Parkway, Greensboro, NC 27410
Ranking: #2 Middle School in North Carolina
Grades: 6–8
Students: 354
Student–Teacher Ratio: 17:1
Link: Visit this school
Kernodle Middle School is a public school in Greensboro serving grades 6–8. The school maintains a student–teacher ratio of about 17:1, allowing teachers to provide focused instruction and academic guidance. Kernodle emphasizes consistent learning routines, classroom engagement, and academic growth, making it a reliable choice for families seeking structured middle school education.
3. Coulwood STEM Academy
Address: 500 Kentberry Dr, Charlotte, NC 28214
Ranking: #3 Middle School in North Carolina
Grades: 6–8
Students: 304
Student–Teacher Ratio: 14:1
Link: Visit this school
Coulwood STEM Academy in Charlotte focuses on science, technology, engineering, and math education for grades 6–8. With a favorable student–teacher ratio of 14:1, the school supports hands-on learning and problem-solving skills. Students benefit from interactive lessons that encourage curiosity, innovation, and strong academic foundations in STEM subjects.
4. Carmel Middle School
Address: 5001 Camilla Dr, Charlotte, NC 28226
Ranking: #4 Middle School in North Carolina
Grades: 6–8
Students: 350
Student–Teacher Ratio: 17:1
Link: Visit this school
Carmel Middle School is a well-established public middle school in Charlotte serving grades 6–8. With approximately 17 students per teacher, the school provides structured academic instruction while supporting student growth. Carmel Middle emphasizes consistency, classroom discipline, and academic readiness, helping students develop confidence and responsibility during their middle school years.
5. Kiser Middle School
Address: 716 Benjamin Parkway, Greensboro, NC 27408
Ranking: #5 Middle School in North Carolina
Grades: 6–8
Students: 300
Student–Teacher Ratio: 18:1
Link: Visit this school
Kiser Middle School in Greensboro serves grades 6–8 and focuses on providing a stable learning environment for students. With a student–teacher ratio of about 18:1, teachers work closely with students to support academic progress. The school emphasizes core subjects and encourages positive classroom engagement to help students succeed academically.
6. Lincoln Academy
Address: 1016 Lincoln Street, Greensboro, NC 27401
Ranking: #6 Middle School in North Carolina
Grades: 4–8
Students: 310
Student–Teacher Ratio: 16:1
Link: Visit this school
Lincoln Academy in Greensboro is a public school serving students from grades 4–8, offering a unique upper-elementary and middle school experience. With a student–teacher ratio of about 16:1, the school supports personalized learning and smoother academic transitions. Lincoln Academy focuses on academic development, consistency, and preparing students for future educational stages.
7. Gov’s Village STEM (Upper)
Address: 7810 Neal Rd, Charlotte, NC 28262
Ranking: #7 Middle School in North Carolina
Grades: 5–8
Students: 671
Student–Teacher Ratio: 18:1
Link: Visit this school
Gov’s Village STEM (Upper) in Charlotte serves grades 5–8 with a strong focus on STEM education. With a student–teacher ratio of approximately 18:1, the school promotes innovation, teamwork, and hands-on learning. Students engage in problem-solving activities that support academic growth and prepare them for advanced STEM coursework.
Historical & Interesting Facts About North Carolina Middle Schools
- North Carolina serves over 1.5 million students in public schools statewide.
- Middle schools typically include grades 6–8, with some schools extending to grades 4 or 5.
- STEM-focused middle schools are growing rapidly across the state.
- Lower student–teacher ratios improve academic engagement and classroom outcomes.
- Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools is one of the largest school districts in the U.S.
8. Eastway Middle School
Address: 1501 Norland Rd, Charlotte, NC 28205
Ranking: #8 Middle School in North Carolina
Grades: 6–8
Students: 268
Student–Teacher Ratio: 15:1
Link: Visit this school
Eastway Middle School in Charlotte serves students in grades 6–8 and maintains a student–teacher ratio of about 15:1. This allows teachers to give more individual attention during lessons. The school focuses on academic improvement, student engagement, and building essential skills that support long-term educational success.
9. Jackson Middle School
Address: 2200 Ontario Street, Greensboro, NC 27403
Ranking: #9 Middle School in North Carolina
Grades: 6–8
Students: 287
Student–Teacher Ratio: 16:1
Link: Visit this school
Jackson Middle School in Greensboro is part of the Guilford County Schools district and serves grades 6–8. With a student–teacher ratio of about 16:1, the school supports balanced instruction and classroom interaction. Teachers focus on academic fundamentals while encouraging students to participate actively in learning.
10. James Martin Middle School
Address: 6301 University Pointe Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28262
Ranking: #10 Middle School in North Carolina
Grades: 6–8
Students: 345
Student–Teacher Ratio: 17:1
Link: Visit this school
James Martin Middle School in Charlotte educates students in grades 6–8 with a focus on structured academics and classroom engagement. With a student–teacher ratio of around 17:1, the school provides consistent instruction and academic guidance. Teachers support students as they develop essential skills for high school readiness.
Conclusion
The best middle schools in North Carolina offer strong academics, supportive teacher-student relationships, and structured learning environments. Whether families are looking for STEM-focused education or traditional academic programs, these schools across Charlotte and Greensboro provide excellent options for students preparing for high school success.
Recommended Reading: Best Elementary Schools in North Carolina
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FAQs About Middle Schools in North Carolina
Most middle schools serve grades 6–8, though some include grades 4 or 5.
Yes, STEM-focused schools are increasingly popular, especially in urban areas.
Smaller ratios allow teachers to provide personalized instruction and support.
Yes, all schools listed are public middle schools.
Parents should consider academics, class size, location, and program offerings.
