Published September 3, 2024
Noteworthy Education in the Triangle: A Guide for Families and Homebuyers

One key factor for families looking to settle in the Triangle area is the quality of local schools. Fortunately, the Triangle, which includes Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill, is home to some of the best schools in North Carolina, known for their academic excellence, diverse programs, and strong community involvement. In this blog post, we'll explore some top-rated schools in the Triangle, providing insights into their achievements and what makes them unique.
School Districts
Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools (CHCCS)
Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools are considered one of the best school districts in North Carolina. Known for its rigorous academic programs and high graduation rates, CHCCS serves students from pre-kindergarten through high school.
Highlights of CHCCS
High Academic Standards: CHCCS consistently ranks among the top districts in the state for test scores and college readiness.
Diverse Programs: The district offers a variety of Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) courses.
Community Engagement: CHCCS has strong ties to the local community, with active parent-teacher associations and support for extracurricular activities.
Wake County Public School System (WCPSS)
As the largest school district in North Carolina, Wake County Public School System serves over 160,000 students across 191 schools. WCPSS is known for its diverse student body and comprehensive educational programs.
What Makes WCPSS Stand Out
Variety of Schools: WCPSS offers traditional, magnet, and year-round options.
Career and Technical Education: The district provides numerous career and technical education (CTE) programs, preparing students for various career paths.
Strong Athletics and Arts: WCPSS has robust athletic and arts programs, with many schools excelling in sports and performing arts.
Durham Public Schools (DPS)
Durham Public Schools is a diverse district known for its commitment to equity and innovative educational approaches. DPS serves approximately 33,000 students and offers a range of specialized programs.
Key Features of DPS
Focus on Equity: DPS has implemented policies and programs to address educational disparities and promote inclusivity.
Innovative Learning: The district offers unique programs, such as the Museum of Life and Science-based magnet schools and the Durham School of the Arts.
Community Partnerships: DPS works closely with local organizations to provide additional resources and support for students.
Chatham County Public Schools (CCS)
Chatham County district, with less than 10,000 students, provides a well-rounded education that includes both rigorous academic programs and opportunities for extracurricular involvement.
Focus on Inclusivity and Support: CCS provides programs and resources designed to address diverse learning needs, promote equity, and foster a positive and safe school climate.
Community Engagement: CCS partners with local organizations, involves families in the educational process, and has initiatives to address the needs of a diverse student body.
Academic Excellence and Innovation: The district is dedicated to providing high-quality education through innovative teaching methods and rigorous academic programs. The district emphasizes STEM education, critical thinking, and personalized learning to help students excel in various academic and career paths.
Schools
Research Triangle High School (RTHS)
Research Triangle High School is a charter school in Research Triangle Park focusing on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education. It delivers a unique learning environment for students interested in STEM fields.
Why RTHS is Unique
STEM-Centric Curriculum: RTHS offers an advanced STEM curriculum focusing on project-based learning.
Early College Opportunities: They partner with local colleges to provide dual-enrollment opportunities for students.
Flexible Learning: RTHS encourages self-directed learning and personalized educational pathways.
Franklin Academy (Wake Forest)
Franklin Academy is a public charter school in Wake Forest. It is known for its strong academic programs and emphasis on character development. The school serves students from kindergarten through high school.
What Sets Franklin Academy Apart
Character Education: Franklin Academy integrates character education into its curriculum, promoting respect, responsibility, and integrity.
High Academic Standards: The school has consistently high test scores and graduation rates.
Small Class Sizes: Franklin Academy maintains small class sizes to provide individualized student attention and support.
East Chapel Hill High School (Chapel Hill)
East Chapel Hill High School is part of the Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools district and is known for its academic excellence and extracurricular programs. The school has a reputation for preparing students for college and beyond.
Highlights of East Chapel Hill High School
Advanced Academics: The school offers a wide range of AP courses and consistently ranks among the top high schools in the state.
Extracurricular Excellence: East Chapel Hill High has award-winning sports, arts, and robotics programs.
Diverse Student Body: The school fosters a diverse and inclusive environment with students from various cultural backgrounds.
These are just a few top-rated schools in the Triangle area, each offering unique programs and opportunities for students. Whether you're looking for a district with strong academics, a focus on STEM, or a commitment to equity, the Triangle has something for every family. If you're considering moving to the Triangle and want more information about the best schools in the area, please contact us. We're here to help you find the perfect home in a community that meets your educational needs.