Schools in Wilmington NC

Whether you’re a parent looking for the best school for your child or a student seeking information about your educational options, this guide will provide a comprehensive overview of Wilmington city schools.

Public Schools: The Cornerstone of Education in Wilmington

Operated by the New Hanover County Schools (NHCS) district, Wilmington’s public schools cater to a diverse student body, offering a wide range of educational paths and opportunities.

Elementary Schools (K-5):

NHCS boasts over 20 elementary schools, each with its unique strengths and character. Some popular choices include:

Anderson Elementary
Ashley Park Elementary
Bellamy Elementary
Blair Elementary
Bradley Creek Elementary
Castle Hayne Elementary
College Park Elementary
Codington Elementary
Eaton Elementary
Forest Hills Elementary
Freeman Elementary
Gregory Elementary
Holly Shelter Elementary
Johnson Elementary
Lake Forest Elementary
Mary C. Williams Elementary
Murrayville Elementary
Ogden Elementary
Parsley Elementary
Pine Valley Elementary
Snipes Academy of Arts & Design
Sunset Park Elementary
Wrightsville Beach Elementary

Middle Schools (6-8):

The district’s middle schools aim to provide a smooth transition for students as they enter their early teens. Some notable options are:

Holly Shelter Middle
Laney High School (Middle Year Program)
Murray Middle
Myrtle Grove Middle
Roland-Grise Middle
Trask Middle
Williston Middle

High Schools (9-12):

Wilmington’s high schools offer rigorous academic programs, diverse extracurricular activities, and pathways for students to pursue their passions. The city’s high schools include:

Ashley High
Hoggard High
Isaac Bear Early College High (offering an accelerated path to college)
Laney High
New Hanover High

Public Charter Schools: Innovative Alternatives

Wilmington is home to several public charter schools that operate independently of the traditional public school system. These schools often have specialized focuses and unique approaches to learning.

Cape Fear Center for Inquiry:

A K-8 school emphasizing inquiry-based learning, where students actively participate in their education through questioning and exploration.

Girls Leadership Academy of Wilmington (GLOW):

A public all-girls charter school dedicated to college preparation and leadership development in a supportive, empowering environment.

Island Montessori Charter School:

A K-8 school that embraces the Montessori method, fostering self-directed learning, hands-on activities, and mixed-age classrooms.

Roger Bacon Academy (Charter Day School):

A network of charter schools with multiple locations in Wilmington, known for its traditional approach to education and emphasis on character development.

Private Schools: Tailored Education and Individual Attention

For families seeking a more personalized educational experience, Wilmington offers several private schools with smaller class sizes and specific academic or religious focuses.

Cape Fear Academy: An independent, co-educational college-preparatory school for grades PK-12, known for its strong academics and diverse extracurricular opportunities.

Coastal Christian High School: A private Christian high school with a college-preparatory curriculum and a focus on faith-based values.

St. Mark Catholic School: A Catholic school serving grades PK-8, offering a faith-filled environment and a comprehensive academic program.

Wilmington Christian Academy: A private Christian school serving grades PK-12, emphasizing spiritual growth alongside academic excellence.

Beyond K-12: Higher Education and Community Resources

Wilmington is also home to Cape Fear Community College, providing associate degrees, certificates, and workforce training programs. Additionally, the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) is a major public research university offering undergraduate and graduate degrees across various disciplines.

Wilmington also boasts numerous libraries, museums, and cultural institutions that contribute to the educational landscape and offer enriching experiences for learners of all ages.