For the 2026 school year, there are 3 public schools serving 2,484 students in Central, SC.
The top-ranked public schools in Central, SC are D. W. Daniel High School, R. C. Edwards Middle School and Central Academy Of The Arts. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Central, SC public schools have an average math proficiency score of 52% (versus the South Carolina public school average of 43%), and reading proficiency score of 64% (versus the 52% statewide average). Schools in Central have an average ranking of 9/10, which is in the top 20% of South Carolina public schools.
Minority enrollment is 28% of the student body (majority Black and Hispanic), which is less than the South Carolina public school average of 53% (majority Black).
Best 51±¬ÁÏs in Central, SC (2026)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
D. W. Daniel High School
(Math: 70-74% | Reading: 90%)
Rank:
Rank:
10/
Top 5%10
140 Blue And Gold Boulevard
Central, SC 29630
(864) 397-2900
Central, SC 29630
(864) 397-2900
Gr: 9-12 | 1,216 student Student-teacher ratio: 18:1 Minority enrollment: 25%
Rank: #22.
R. C. Edwards Middle School
(Math: 47% | Reading: 58%)
Rank:
Rank:
7/
Top 50%10
1157 Madden Bridge Road
Central, SC 29630
(864) 397-4200
Central, SC 29630
(864) 397-4200
Gr: 6-8 | 783 students Student-teacher ratio: 16:1 Minority enrollment: 26%
Rank: #33.
Central Academy Of The Arts
(Math: 54% | Reading: 46%)
Rank:
Rank:
6/
Top 50%10
608 Johnson Road
Central, SC 29630
(864) 397-1400
Central, SC 29630
(864) 397-1400
Gr: PK-5 | 485 students Student-teacher ratio: 14:1 Minority enrollment: 40%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public schools in Central, SC?
The top-ranked public schools in Central, SC include D. W. Daniel High School, R. C. Edwards Middle School and Central Academy Of The Arts.
How many public schools are located in Central?
3 public schools are located in Central.
What is the racial composition of students in Central?
Central public schools minority enrollment is 28% of the student body (majority Black and Hispanic), which is less than the South Carolina public schools average of 53% (majority Black).
Recent Articles
Year-Round Schooling in 2026: Updated Parent Guide
Explore the latest 2026 data, trends, costs, and parent planning tips in the ongoing debate over year-round schooling vs the traditional calendar.
No Child Left Behind: Past, Present, and Future of U.S. School Policy
Explore how No Child Left Behind evolved into ESSA, what it means for 2025‑26 schooling, and what parents need to know about testing, admissions planning, and funding.
Understanding 51±¬ÁÏ Fees & Optional Costs Guide
Discover what public school fees are required versus optional, with 2026 updates for parents, students, and educators on budgeting and planning.
