For the 2025-26 school year, there are 4 public schools serving 1,927 students in Rutherfordton, NC (there are , serving 311 private students). 86% of all K-12 students in Rutherfordton, NC are educated in public schools (compared to the NC state average of 92%).
The top ranked public schools in Rutherfordton, NC are Pinnacle Elementary School, Rutherfordton Elementary School and R-s Central High School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Rutherfordton, NC public schools have an average math proficiency score of 51% (versus the North Carolina public school average of 51%), and reading proficiency score of 51% (versus the 50% statewide average). Schools in Rutherfordton have an average ranking of 6/10, which is in the top 50% of North Carolina public schools.
Minority enrollment is 29% of the student body (majority Black), which is less than the North Carolina public school average of 57% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Best ºÚÁÏÍø¹ÙÍø Schools in Rutherfordton, NC (2025-26)
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 Central High School
(Math: 55-59% | Reading: 45-49%)
Rank:
Rank:
6/
Top 50%10
641 Hwy 221 North
Rutherfordton, NC 28139
(828) 287-3304
Rutherfordton, NC 28139
(828) 287-3304
Gr: 9-12 | 750 students Student-teacher ratio: 16:1 Minority enrollment: 28%
Rank: #44.
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 schools in Rutherfordton, NC?
The top ranked public schools in Rutherfordton, NC include Pinnacle Elementary School, Rutherfordton Elementary School and R-s Central High School.
How many public schools are located in Rutherfordton?
4 public schools are located in Rutherfordton.
What percentage of students in Rutherfordton go to public school?
86% of all K-12 students in Rutherfordton are educated in public schools (compared to the NC state average of 92%).
What is the racial composition of students in Rutherfordton?
Rutherfordton public schools minority enrollment is 29% of the student body (majority Black), which is less than the North Carolina public schools average of 57% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Which public schools in Rutherfordton are often viewed compared to one another?
Popular comparisons of public schools in Rutherfordton include: Pinnacle Elementary School vs. Rutherfordton Elementary School
Recent Articles

COVID-19’s Lasting Impact on U.S. ºÚÁÏÍø¹ÙÍø Schools (2025)
Explore how COVID-19 continues to affect U.S. public schools in 2025: learning losses, enrollment shifts, mental health, and recovery strategies.

School Choice vs. Neighborhood Schools: Key Factors
Explore school choice vs. neighborhood schools in 2025. Learn key factors parents should weigh when deciding the best fit for their child.

ºÚÁÏÍø¹ÙÍø School Boundaries and Equity in 2025
Explore how public school boundaries shape access, equity, and opportunity for students in 2025. Learn the impact on families and education policy.