NCSSM snags best public high school title, fifth year in a row

Morganton is home to the best public high school in the state.

Niche.com has rated North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics (NCSSM) the best high school in North Carolina based on the qualifications of teachers, rigor, and diversity of academic offerings, clubs and activities, parent surveys, and resources and facilities.

Niche is a market leader in connecting colleges and schools with students and families. The site provides more than 140 million reviews and ratings for every school and college in America. This is the fifth year NCSSM has celebrated this title, taking home an A+ rating from the site.

Kevin Baxter, chief campus officer for NCSSM-Morganton, expressed his gratitude to all who support NCSSM’s mission.

“We join our colleagues in Durham in celebrating this wonderful recognition for NCSSM and I hope our pride extends to the many partners and champions in Morganton and throughout western North Carolina without whom we could not deliver this impact. Together, we are building a brighter future for students and educators in our region and beyond,” Baxter said.

NCSSM was founded in Durham in 1980 and expanded to a second campus in Morganton in 2022. NCSSM follows an intensive STEM curriculum and humanities program.

Dr. Todd Roberts, now in his 14th year as chancellor at NCSSM, spoke highly of the honor in the wake of Hurricane Helene.

“Such public acknowledgments as this are to be celebrated, and we certainly want to share some good news in the shadow of all the lives that have been impacted by Hurricane Helene,” Roberts said. “Anytime we can say we’re No. 1, we’re very happy to do it, but we must always remember that at the core of that ranking are people: our faculty, staff, and the greater NCSSM community of alumni, families, and friends.”

Students at NCSSM-Morganton were welcomed back to campus on Oct. 9 after evacuation from the storm. Dane Humphrey, student body president, credits the school’s perseverance.

“Our school’s motto is ‘Maius Opus Moveo,’ which means ‘I accept the greater challenge.’ Our school has been challenged with Hurricane Helene, which has impacted classmates and staff and devastated neighbors. We know, and have learned, if we come together as a community, we are able to achieve great things. We’re prepared to accept that greater challenge.”

Students interested in applying to the NCSSM Durham or Morganton campus for the 2025-26 school year can apply now through Jan. 5. Programs are available to students at no cost. The school serves juniors and seniors in high school. To apply, visit www.ncssm.edu.