High Schools in Cherokee County Schools

The Cherokee County Schools district in North Carolina is home to 5 high schools serving students in grades 9-12. These schools vary significantly in their academic performance and the socioeconomic backgrounds of their student populations.

The standout school in the district is Tri-County Early College High, which consistently ranks among the top 140 high schools in North Carolina and earns high marks for its academic excellence. In contrast, The Oaks Academy struggles academically, with very low proficiency rates in key subjects, and serves a student population that is predominantly economically disadvantaged, with 94% of students qualifying for free or reduced-price lunch.

The schools in the district also vary in their racial diversity, with Tri-County Early College High being the most diverse and Hiwassee Dam High being the least diverse. Spending per student also varies widely, from $7,830 at Tri-County Early College High to $16,426 at The Oaks Academy, with no clear correlation between spending and academic performance. These findings suggest that factors beyond just funding, such as instructional practices and student support services, may play a more significant role in driving student outcomes in the Cherokee County Schools district.