For the 2025 school year, there are 4 public schools serving 1,301 students in Clay County, NC (there are 1 private school, serving 77 private students). 94% of all K-12 students in Clay County, NC are educated in public schools (compared to the NC state average of 92%).
The top ranked public schools in Clay County, NC are Hayesville High School, Hayesville Elementary School and Hayesville Middle School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Clay County, NC public schools have an average math proficiency score of 61% (versus the North Carolina public school average of 51%), and reading proficiency score of 55% (versus the 50% statewide average). Schools in Clay County have an average ranking of 9/10, which is in the top 20% of North Carolina public schools.
Minority enrollment is 15% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the North Carolina public school average of 57% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Best Public Schools in Clay County (2025)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Grades
Students
Rank: #11.
Hayesville High School
(Math: 70-79% | Reading: 60-64%)
Rank:
Rank:
9/
Top 20%10
205 Yellow Jacket Drive
Hayesville, NC 28904
(828) 389-6532
Hayesville, NC 28904
(828) 389-6532
Grades: 9-12
| 374 students
Rank: #22.
Hayesville Elementary School
(Math: 65% | Reading: 54%)
Rank:
Rank:
8/
Top 30%10
72 Elementary School Drive
Hayesville, NC 28904
(828) 389-8586
Hayesville, NC 28904
(828) 389-8586
Grades: 3-5
| 257 students
Rank: #33.
Hayesville Middle School
(Math: 56% | Reading: 53%)
Rank:
Rank:
7/
Top 50%10
135 School Drive
Hayesville, NC 28904
(828) 389-9924
Hayesville, NC 28904
(828) 389-9924
Grades: 6-8
| 283 students
Rank: n/an/a
698 Anderson St
Hayesville, NC 28904
(828) 389-3763
Hayesville, NC 28904
(828) 389-3763
Grades: PK-2
| 387 students
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top ranked public schools in Clay County, NC?
The top ranked public schools in Clay County, NC include Hayesville High School, Hayesville Elementary School and Hayesville Middle School.
How many public schools are located in Clay County?
4 public schools are located in Clay County.
What percentage of students in Clay County go to public school?
94% of all K-12 students in Clay County are educated in public schools (compared to the NC state average of 92%).
What is the racial composition of students in Clay County?
Clay County public schools minority enrollment is 15% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the North Carolina public schools average of 57% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Which public schools in Clay County are often viewed compared to one another?
Popular comparisons of public schools in Clay County include: Hayesville Middle School vs. Hayesville High School, Hayesville Middle School vs. Hayesville Elementary School, Hayesville Elementary School vs. Hayesville Middle School
Recent Articles
What Is A Charter School?
Explore the world of charter schools in this comprehensive guide. Learn about their history, how they operate, and the pros and cons of this educational innovation. Discover key facts about charter schools, including admission policies, demographics, and funding, as well as what to look for when considering a charter school for your child.
10 Reasons Why High School Sports Benefit Students
Discover the 10 compelling reasons why high school sports are beneficial for students. This comprehensive article explores how athletics enhance academic performance, foster personal growth, and develop crucial life skills. From improved fitness and time management to leadership development and community representation, learn why participating in high school sports can be a game-changer for students' overall success and well-being.
February 05, 2025
Understanding the U.S. Department of Education: Structure, Impact, and EvolutionWe explore how the Department of Education shapes American education, from its cabinet-level leadership to its impact on millions of students, written for general audiences seeking clarity on this vital institution.