Education

Western Piedmont Community College

Chartered on April 2, 1964, Western Piedmont Community College is a member of the North Carolina Community College System. In 2008, it was one of seven colleges in the state to receive recognition for Exceptional Institutional Performance based on standards established by the North Carolina General Assembly.

Approximately 4,000 students enroll each year to pursue college transfer degrees, two year associate degrees and diplomas. More than 10,000 students enroll in continuing education courses for professional development and personal enrichment. The College also provides programs for high school completion.

Numerous universities including University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Western Carolina University in Cullowhee and Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem are within 100 miles of Burke County. Even NC State University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill are less than a three hour drive using I-40.

Burke County Public Schools

Enrollment in the Burke County Public Schools exceeded 13,000 students for the 2011-2012 school year. The system consists of 15 elementary schools, 5 middle schools, and 4 high schools, Approximately one-third of Burke County Public School teachers have masters degrees.

At all grade levels, the curriculum in English/language arts, mathematics, social studies, physical education, health, music art, guidance, technology, and media skills follows the North Carolina Standard Course of Study.