U.S. News & World Report dropped its 2026 Best Elementary and Middle Schools rankings on Tuesday, Oct. 28. Metrolina Regional Scholars Academy in Charlotte grabbed the No. 1 spot among nearly 1,100 elementary schools across North Carolina. The charter school also snagged No. 2 among middle schools statewide.
The rankings showcase schools that help students succeed and create strong learning spaces for all kids. “These rankings offer communities and families insights into schools dedicated to preparing students for future success,” said LaMont Jones, Ed.D., managing editor for Education at U.S. News, in a news release sent to The Charlotte Observer.
More than a dozen Charlotte-area schools made the top 50 statewide. Providence Spring Academy in Charlotte ranked No. 5. Pine Lake Preparatory in Mooresville came in at No. 8. Rea View Elementary in Waxhaw and Weddington Elementary in Matthews rounded out the top performers at No. 10 and No. 13. These stats, and those that follow in this article, come from the U.S. News & World Report…