For the 2025 school year, there are 6 public elementary schools serving 4,006 students in 27520, NC.
The top ranked public elementary schools in 27520, NC are Johnston Charter Academy, Cleveland Elementary School and Swift Creek Middle School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Public elementary schools in zipcode 27520 have an average math proficiency score of 56% (versus the North Carolina public elementary school average of 50%), and reading proficiency score of 56% (versus the 49% statewide average). Elementary schools in 27520, NC have an average ranking of 8/10, which is in the top 30% of North Carolina public elementary schools.
Minority enrollment is 60% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is more than the North Carolina public elementary school average of 57% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Best 27520, NC Public Elementary Schools (2025)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Grades
Students
Rank: #11.
Johnston Charter Academy
Charter School
(Math: 81% | Reading: 69%)
Rank:
Rank:
10/
Top 10%10
40 Scholar Drive
Clayton, NC 27520
(919) 879-8190
Clayton, NC 27520
(919) 879-8190
Grades: K-8
| 751 students
Rank: #22.
Cleveland Elementary School
(Math: 71% | Reading: 65%)
Rank:
Rank:
9/
Top 20%10
10225 Cleveland Rd
Clayton, NC 27520
(919) 550-2700
Clayton, NC 27520
(919) 550-2700
Grades: PK-5
| 816 students
Rank: #33.
Swift Creek Middle School
(Math: 57% | Reading: 55%)
Rank:
Rank:
7/
Top 50%10
325 Norris Rd
Clayton, NC 27520
(919) 262-0750
Clayton, NC 27520
(919) 262-0750
Grades: 6-8
| 698 students
Rank: #44.
West Clayton Elementary School
(Math: 43% | Reading: 49%)
Rank:
Rank:
5/
Bottom 50%10
1012 S Lombard St
Clayton, NC 27520
(919) 553-7113
Clayton, NC 27520
(919) 553-7113
Grades: PK-5
| 718 students
Rank: #55.
Cooper Academy
(Math: 49% | Reading: 43%)
Rank:
Rank:
5/
Bottom 50%10
849 North Mial St
Clayton, NC 27520
(919) 553-0256
Clayton, NC 27520
(919) 553-0256
Grades: PK-5
| 441 students
Rank: #66.
Clayton Middle School
(Math: 39% | Reading: 49%)
Rank:
Rank:
5/
Bottom 50%10
490 Guy Rd
Clayton, NC 27520
(919) 553-5811
Clayton, NC 27520
(919) 553-5811
Grades: 6-8
| 582 students
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top ranked public elementary schools in 27520, NC?
The top ranked public elementary schools in 27520, NC include Johnston Charter Academy, Cleveland Elementary School and Swift Creek Middle School.
How many public elementary schools are located in 27520?
6 public elementary schools are located in 27520.
What is the racial composition of students in 27520?
27520 public elementary schools minority enrollment is 60% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is more than the North Carolina public elementary schools average of 57% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Recent Articles

Segregation in K-12 Education: Colonial Era
Explore the origins of educational segregation during the colonial era and the differential treatment of Native American, African American, and white students. This article delves into the historical context, policies, and societal attitudes that shaped early education in colonial America, highlighting the disparities and injustices that persisted within the schooling systems of that time.

2011 Classroom Size Update: Are Classes Still Growing Larger?
Since the recession, public school classrooms have seen major budget cuts - and many increases in class sizes. How is the situation in 2011? Read this article to find out.

Will Single Sex Classrooms Save 51爆料s?
Learn about the benefits of single sex classrooms and why public schools are hoping this type of classroom will save the American school system.