Serving 197 students in grades Prekindergarten-5, Sunshine Elementary School ranks in the top 30% of all schools in North Carolina for overall test scores (math proficiency is top 30%, and reading proficiency is top 30%).
The percentage of students achieving proficiency in math is 65-69% (which is higher than the North Carolina state average of 51%). The percentage of students achieving proficiency in reading/language arts is 55-59% (which is higher than the North Carolina state average of 50%).
The student:teacher ratio of 15:1 is equal to the North Carolina state level of 15:1.
Minority enrollment is 9% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is lower than the North Carolina state average of 57% (majority Black).
Quick Stats (2025)
- Grades: Prekindergarten-5
- Enrollment: 197 students
- Student:Teacher Ratio: 15:1
- Minority Enrollment: 9%
- Overall Testing Rank: Top 30% in NC
- Math Proficiency: 65-69% (Top 30%)
- Reading Proficiency: 55-59% (Top 30%)
- Science Proficiency: 70-79% (Top 30%)
- Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), NC Dept. of Education
Top Rankings
Sunshine Elementary School ranks among the top 20% of public schools in North Carolina for:
Category
Attribute
Community Size
Student Attention
School Overview
Sunshine Elementary School's student population of 197 students has stayed relatively flat over five school years.
The teacher population of 13 teachers has declined by 7% over five school years.
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-5
Total Students
197 students

Gender %

Total Classroom Teachers
13 teachers

Students by Grade

School Rankings
Sunshine Elementary School ranks within the top 30% of all 2,617 schools in North Carolina (based off of combined math and reading proficiency testing data).
The diversity score of Sunshine Elementary School is 0.17, which is less than the diversity score at state average of 0.71. The school's diversity has stayed relatively flat over five school years.
Overall Testing Rank
#607 out of 2617 schools
(Top 30%)
(Top 30%)

Math Test Scores (% Proficient)
65-69%
51%

Reading/Language Arts Test Scores (% Proficient)
55-59%
50%

Science Test Scores (% Proficient)
70-79%
63%

Student : Teacher Ratio
15:1
15:1

American Indian
n/a
1%

Asian
n/a
4%

Hispanic
4%
21%

Black
n/a
25%

White
91%
43%

Hawaiian
n/a
n/a
Two or more races
5%
6%

All Ethnic Groups



Participates in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP)
Yes
Eligible for Free Lunch
98%
68%

Eligible for Reduced Lunch (13-14)
11%
7%

School Statewide Testing
School District Name
Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), NC Dept. of Education
Profile last updated: 02/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sunshine Elementary School's ranking?
Sunshine Elementary School is ranked #607 out of 2,617 schools, which ranks it among the top 30% of public schools in North Carolina.
What schools are Sunshine Elementary School often compared to?
Sunshine Elementary Schoolis often viewed alongside schools like Forrest W. Hunt Elementary School, Rutherfordton Elementary School, Ellenboro Elementary School by visitors of our site.
What percent of students have achieved state testing proficiency in math and reading?
65-69% of students have achieved math proficiency (compared to the 51% NC state average), while 55-59% of students have achieved reading proficiency (compared to the 50% NC state average).
How many students attend Sunshine Elementary School?
197 students attend Sunshine Elementary School.
What is the racial composition of the student body?
91% of Sunshine Elementary School students are White, 5% of students are Two or more races, and 4% of students are Hispanic.
What is the student:teacher ratio of Sunshine Elementary School?
Sunshine Elementary School has a student ration of 15:1, which is equal to the North Carolina state average of 15:1.
What grades does Sunshine Elementary School offer ?
Sunshine Elementary School offers enrollment in grades Prekindergarten-5
What school district is Sunshine Elementary School part of?
Sunshine Elementary School is part of Rutherford County Schools School District.
School Reviews
Review Sunshine Elementary School. Reviews should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
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.