Gaston County School District

Gaston County School District at a Glance

The district includes 56 schools—32 elementary, 11 middle, and 11 high schools. It offers standout options like STEM-focused academies, International Baccalaureate (IB), and language immersion programs. Gaston County schools report a graduation rate above 85%, with improving test scores year over year.

Just west of Charlotte, the Gaston County School District serves over 30,000 students across a wide range of communities. Known for its supportive school culture and diverse programs, this district is often highlighted by parents researching schools through SchoolDigger, GreatSchools, and Niche.

District Snapshot

Gaston County Schools enrolls about 30,629 students across 56 campuses, offering standout programs like STEM, Advanced Placement, and career-technical education. The district boasts an 86.7% graduation rate for 2024, with 49% of students proficient in math and 46% in reading. It’s a hub for families seeking high-performing schools near Charlotte.

Top Schools in Gaston County School District

Looking for the best schools in Gaston County School District? Below, we’ve highlighted top-rated elementary, middle, and high schools based on test scores, parent reviews, and college readiness data from sources like SchoolDigger and GreatSchools. Each school name links to its official website for more details.

Top-Rated Elementary Schools

• W.A. Bess Elementary – Small classes and strong reading scores

• Belmont Central Elementary – Family-focused with top math performance

• Cramerton Elementary – STEM learning and community pride

• Robinson Elementary – Arts integration and solid academics

• New Hope Elementary – Safe, welcoming, and highly rated

Top-Rated Middle Schools

• Cramerton Middle School – High test scores and strong leadership

• Belmont Middle School – Great community support and academics

• Stanley Middle School – Strong in STEM and student growth

• Southwest Middle School – Excellent programs and teacher engagement

• Mount Holly Middle School – Enrichment programs and caring staff

Top-Rated High Schools

• South Point High School – Known for athletics and graduation rates

• Forestview High School – Strong academics and AP offerings

• Stuart W. Cramer High School – Modern campus and top test scores

• Gaston Early College High School – College credit and small class sizes

• Ashbrook High School – Great sports and dual-enrollment options

Why Families Love This District

Families flock to Gaston County Schools for their manageable class sizes (17:1 student-teacher ratio), tight-knit community support, and wide range of extracurriculars, from championship sports to thriving arts programs. Unique perks like the Gaston Virtual Academy and specialized STEM tracks at schools like Hawks Nest STEAM Academy make it a standout. Parents also praise the district’s career-technical courses, preparing students for college or skilled trades.

Ready to find the perfect school for your family? Check out the full Gaston County School District school directory to explore all 56 campuses and their offerings.