For the 2026 school year, there are 2 public high schools serving 681 students in 28690, NC.
The top-ranked public high school in 28690, NC is Jimmy C Draughn High School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Public high schools in zipcode 28690 have an average math proficiency score of 87% (versus the North Carolina public high school average of 58%), and reading proficiency score of 62% (versus the 58% statewide average). High schools in 28690, NC have an average ranking of 9/10, which is in the top 20% of North Carolina public high schools.
Public high school in zipcode 28690 have a Graduation Rate of 95%, which is more than the North Carolina average of 86%.
The school with highest graduation rate is Jimmy C Draughn High School, with ≥95% graduation rate. Read more about public school graduation rate statistics in North Carolina or national school graduation rate statistics.
Minority enrollment is 26% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the North Carolina public high school average of 55% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Best 28690, NC Public High Schools (2026)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Jimmy C Draughn High School
(Math: 85-89% | Reading: 60-64%)
Rank:
Rank:
9/
Top 20%10
709 Lovelady Road Ne
Valdese, NC 28690
(828) 879-4200
Valdese, NC 28690
(828) 879-4200
Gr: 9-12 | 656 students Student-teacher ratio: 19:1 Minority enrollment: 26%
Rank: n/an/a
Heritage Middle School, 1951 E
Valdese, NC 28690
(828) 448-3175
Valdese, NC 28690
(828) 448-3175
Gr: K-12 | 25 students Student-teacher ratio: 13:1 Minority enrollment: 16%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public high schools in 28690, NC?
The top-ranked public high schools in 28690, NC include Jimmy C Draughn High School.
How many public high schools are located in 28690?
2 public high schools are located in 28690.
What is the racial composition of students in 28690?
28690 public high schools minority enrollment is 26% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the North Carolina public high schools average of 55% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Recent Articles
Preventing Suicide in Schools: 2026 Guide for Educators
Learn updated 2026 strategies for preventing suicide in schools, including warning signs, intervention plans, and school-wide mental health support.
The Impact of Social Media on Students (2026 Update)
Explore the impact of social media on students in 2026, including academic, mental health, and safety insights for parents and educators.
Building a Summer Reading Plan That Keeps Kids Engaged
Learn how to build a summer reading plan that keeps kids engaged, motivated, and improving literacy skills throughout the break.