Best Elementary Schools in Zip Code 28202

Elementary Schools located in zip code 28202 consist of a single K-5 school, Irwin Academic Center, part of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools in Uptown Charlotte, with 371 students enrolled. Irwin Academic Center is a standout performer, and its statewide rank shows rapid improvement: from #306 of 1,505 schools (80th percentile, 4 stars) in 2023–2024, it rose to #122 of 1,490 (92nd percentile, 5 stars) in 2024–2025, and reached #81 of 1,492 (95th percentile, 5 stars) in 2025–2026. By contrast, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools district holds a 57th-percentile statewide rank with 3 stars, meaning Irwin Academic Center performs far above its district’s overall standing.

In the most recent 2025–2026 school year, Irwin Academic Center posted proficiency rates above 80% in every tested subject and grade level. Math proficiency ranged from 84.1% to 88.7%, reading from 82.9% to 84.6%, and 5th grade science reached 81.5%. These results greatly exceed district and state averages; in reading, the school outperformed its district by roughly 25 percentage points. Chronic absenteeism is remarkably low at 5.6%, compared with 26.8% for the district and 24.2% for the state — a rate about one-fifth of the district’s. The school also reports a favorable 13.9:1 student–teacher ratio, and about 33.42% of students qualify for free or reduced lunch.

For parents, several points stand out. The school shows impressive consistency across subjects and grade levels, with all seven reported EOG proficiency rates falling between 81.5% and 88.7%, indicating effective school-wide instruction. Notable year-over-year gains in upper elementary include 5th grade math jumping from 70.3% to 84.6% (+14.3 points) and 5th grade reading rising from 73.4% to 84.6% (+11.2 points). While 3rd grade math dipped from 92.1% to 84.1%, it remains very strong. With its rapid climb to the 95th percentile statewide, exceptionally low chronic absenteeism, and outstanding academic results, Irwin Academic Center is an excellent elementary option in the 28202 zip code.