Summary:
ZIP code 27928 is home to just one high school: Washington Early College High, a very small school in Roper, North Carolina serving 72 students in grades 9–12. It operates within Washington County Schools, a district that ranks in the 20th percentile statewide. Despite this, the school itself is a standout: Washington Early College High has earned 4 stars and ranks in the 78th percentile of North Carolina high schools, making it a high-performing school in a low-performing district.
What makes this school especially notable is that 95.83% of students are eligible for free/reduced lunch, yet the school consistently outperforms both district and state averages. Its most recent graduation rate is 91.3%, above the district rate of 81.9% and the state rate of 88.8%. Chronic absenteeism is remarkably low at 5.5%, compared to 40.7% for the district and 24.2% statewide. On End-of-Course tests, the school posted strong proficiency rates — 73.3% in Biology and 89.5% in Math III, both well above state averages. In every subject and year reported, this school outperforms its district, often by large margins. This suggests a positive, engaged school culture and a college-preparatory environment that supports academic success despite high economic need.
Parents should keep in mind that the school’s small enrollment means performance can fluctuate from year to year. Its state ranking has ranged from the 59th to the 84th percentile over three years, and proficiency in Biology jumped from 45.8% to 73.3% in just one year. The student-teacher ratio is also unusually high at 36:1, though this may not reflect the full instructional support available through the Early College model. Per-pupil spending is $16,567, relatively high for a rural school. Overall, Washington Early College High is a compelling option for families in ZIP code 27928, offering strong academics, excellent attendance, and a graduation rate above state averages — but its long-term trends are best monitored over several years due to its small size.
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