Schools · The Palisades NC · Charlotte-Mecklenburg
Strong Schools
In Your Own
Backyard.
From the only school inside the community itself to public schools named for the neighborhood — The Palisades has more educational options within 30 minutes than most families will ever need.
"One of the reasons we chose The Palisades was the school situation. Our kids go to Palisades Park and Palisades Episcopal — both literally minutes from our front door."
— Palisades Resident
3
CMS Public Schools Zoned
6+
Private School Options
1
Charter in 28278
5+
Early Childhood Options
3
CMS Public Schools Zoned
6+
Private School Options
1
Charter in 28278
5+
Early Childhood Options
Elementary · K–5
Palisades Park Elementary
15321 York Rd · Charlotte NC 28278 · CMS · ~5 min
Middle · 6–8
Southwest Middle School
Charlotte NC · CMS · ~12 min
High School · 9–12
Palisades High School
15221 York Rd · Charlotte NC 28278 · CMS · ~5 min
Public Schools
Private Schools
Early Childhood
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools · CMS · 28278
Your CMS Public Schools
The Palisades is zoned for three Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools. The elementary and high school share the community's name and sit within the neighborhood. Always verify your specific address with CMS before purchasing — zoning is subject to change.
Zoning Disclaimer
School assignments for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools can change year to year. The schools listed reflect current zoning for the 28278 zip code. Always confirm your specific address with CMS directly before making a decision based on school assignment.
Elementary · Zoned School
CMS Public · Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools
Palisades Park Elementary
Grades K–5 · 929 Students
~5 min · 2 miles · 15321 York Rd, Charlotte NC 28278
One of southwest Charlotte's most highly regarded public elementary schools. Palisades Park Elementary consistently earns top marks from CMS, 78% of students score at or above proficient in math. Ranked in the top 20% of North Carolina elementary schools by U.S. News and rated 8 out of 10 on GreatSchools. Conveniently located on York Road within the neighborhood corridor.
929
Students
17:1
Ratio
8/10
GreatSchools
78%
Math Prof.
Gifted & Talented
Top 20% NC
56 Teachers
Middle School · Zoned School
CMS Public · Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools
Southwest Middle School
Grades 6–8 · 1,287 Students
~12 min · Charlotte NC
The zoned middle school for most Palisades families. Southwest Middle offers a Gifted & Talented program, Project Lead The Way STEM curriculum, JROTC, and 13 sports. Many Palisades families who prefer a private middle school option choose Palisades Episcopal, which serves through 8th grade. Families are encouraged to visit and form their own assessment.
1,287
Students
20:1
Ratio
13
Sports
Gifted & Talented
STEM / PLTW
13 Sports
High School · Zoned School
CMS Public · Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools
Palisades High School
Grades 9–12 · 2,332 Students
~5 min · 2 miles · 15221 York Rd, Charlotte NC 28278
Opened August 2022 — one of Charlotte's newest public high schools, built to serve SW Charlotte's fast-growing community. The Pumas, teal and purple, 8A classification. Situated literally inside the community on York Road. As one of CMS's newest schools it is still establishing its identity and programs, but its proximity and growing athletics program are genuine advantages.
1,287
Students
20:1
Ratio
13
GreatSchools
78%
Math Prof.
Teal & Purple · Pumas
8A Athletics
SW Meck Conference
Private Schools · Near The Palisades
Private School Options Something for Every Family
One school is walking distance inside the community. Two exceptional options sit 25 minutes away in Gaston County. The Lake Wylie corridor has a private school landscape that surprises most families relocating to the area. Tuition figures are approximate — contact schools directly for current rates.
Episcopal · Classical Education · JK–8
Palisades Episcopal School
Grades JK–8 · ~240 Students · 10:1 Ratio
Walking distance · 13120 Grand Palisades Pkwy, Charlotte NC
Niche A+
92nd Percentile Nationally
SAIS Accredited
The only school located inside the Palisades community — on Grand Palisades Pkwy, steps from the Residents Club pool. A Christ-centered classical education from JK through 8th grade on a 9-acre campus. Includes multipurpose classrooms, indoor recreation center, outdoor learning spaces, and access to golf, tennis, equestrian, and swimming. 100% of students in Visual & Performing Arts. 90% in middle school athletics. Ranked in the 92nd percentile nationally. Indexed tuition program available based on demonstrated need.
240
Students
10:1
Ratio
9 acres
Campus
~$16,305
Tuition/yr*
*Approximate. Indexed tuition available. Contact PES for current rates.
Episcopal · Classical Education · JK–8
Walnut Grove Christian School
Grades JK–8 · ~240 Students · 10:1 Ratio
1036 Maxwell Mill Rd, Fort Mill SC 29708
A close-knit Christian school in Fort Mill serving students K–12. What makes WGCS stand out is its scholarship track record — a school of 250 students whose 2026 graduating class earned a combined $4.5 million in college scholarships. That number belongs in a different conversation. Personal, faith-driven, and serious about college outcomes.
Class of 2026 · College Scholarships Awarded
Total scholarships earned by the Class of 2026
Source: walnutgrovechristianschool.com
$4.5M
250
Students
K–12
Ratio
~$10K
Tuition/yr*
$4.5M
2026 Scholarships
*Tuition approximate. Contact WGCS for current schedule. Scholarship data sourced from walnutgrovechristianschool.com.
Classical Christian · University Model
Private Christian · York SC · Near Lake Wylie
Lake Pointe Academy
Grades K5–12 · ~205 Students
~20 min · 3168 Hands Mill Hwy, York SC
ork Rd, Charlotte NC 28278
A Classical Christian school on the shores of Lake Wylie operating on the University Model — a college-like alternating schedule blending in-school instruction with structured home study days. Deliberately small and parent-involved. 13:1 ratio. 83% of graduates attend college. Accredited by Cognia and SACS. Serves families from across York County, Fort Mill, and Charlotte.
205
Students
13:1
Ratio
83%
College-Bound
University Model
Classical Christian
SACS Accredited
Independent College Prep · Founded 1967
Independent · Non-Sectarian · Gastonia NC
Gaston Day School
Grades PreK–12 · ~500 Students
~25 min via Hwy 49 · 2001 Gaston Day School Rd, Gastonia NC
The area's leading independent, non-sectarian college preparatory school — Niche: A, top 20% of NC private schools. 9:1 student-teacher ratio. Particularly praised for supporting students with learning differences. The route from The Palisades via Hwy 49 through Lake Wylie is direct. A school where students consistently earn admission to competitive universities.
500
Students
9:1
Ratio
~$22,390
Tuition/yr*
Niche: A
Non-Sectarian
College Prep
Private Christian · Gastonia NC
CMS Public · Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools
Gaston Christian School
Grades PK3–12 · 1,100+ Students
~25 min · 1625 Lowell Bethesda Rd, Gastonia NC
The largest private school in Gaston County with over 1,100 students on a single 66-acre campus. Founded 1979. Full athletics (baseball, soccer, softball), performing arts, and comprehensive academics. Two campuses — Gastonia and Kings Mountain. A strong choice for families wanting comprehensive Christian education at a larger community scale with a robust extracurricular program.
1,100+
Students
66 ac
Campus
1979
Est.
Largest Gaston County
Christian
66-Acre Campus
Creative Leadership · K–12
Private · Fort Mill SC · Kingsley
Comenius School for Creative Leadership
Grades K–12 · ~171 Students
~25 min · 8160 Regent Pkwy, Fort Mill SC
A distinctive Fort Mill private school built around creative thinking, leadership development, and interdisciplinary learning. Built for students who thrive with project-based learning and a flexible academic approach. Located in Kingsley near Fort Mill's growing dining and commercial district.
171
Students
K–12
Grades
Fort Mill
SC
Project-Based
Creative Curriculum
Leadership Focus
*Tuition figures are approximate and may have changed. Contact each school directly for current rates and financial aid options.
Charter Schools · NC Public · Tuition-Free
Charter School Options
North Carolina public charter schools are tuition-free and open to all students regardless of home address. Most use a lottery when demand exceeds seats. Enrollment windows typically open in January for the following school year.
Charter · Public · Free · 28278
NC Public Charter · Mecklenburg County
Southwest Charlotte STEM Academy
Grades K–8 · 836 Students
~10 min · 5203 Shopton Rd, Charlotte NC 28278
The public charter school closest to The Palisades — on Shopton Road in the same 28278 zip code. A STEM-focused K–8 charter serving SW Charlotte. Tuition-free, open to all Mecklenburg County residents, enrollment by lottery when demand exceeds seats. Check the NC Public Charter School application process annually for enrollment windows.
836
Students
K–8
Grades
Free
Tuition
28278
Zip Code
STEM Focus
Lottery Enrollment
Mecklenburg County
NC Charter School Guide
How Charter Schools Work in NC
State-funded · Tuition-free · Lottery Enrollment
NC public charter schools are funded by the state, tuition-free, and open to all students — but families must apply, not simply be assigned. Schools with more applicants than seats use a lottery. Charter schools can specialize in STEM, arts, classical, or other curriculum focuses while still meeting state accountability standards. Enrollment windows typically open January for the following fall. Highly-rated Mecklenburg charters include Metrolina Regional Scholars' Academy (NC Grade: A) and Bradford Preparatory School — both require a commute from The Palisades but may suit families with specific priorities.
Tuition-Free
Lottery Enrollment
Open to All NC Residents
Early Childhood · Pre-K · Daycare · Montessori
Early Childhood Education, Infant Through Pre-K
The Lake Wylie corridor has strong early childhood options — from Lake Wylie's only Montessori preschool to a Christian academy that has served the community since 1979 accepting infants from 6 weeks. Families relocating with young children are well covered.
Montessori · Ages 3–5 · Lake Wylie
Journey Montessori Academy
~14 min · Lake Wylie SC
Lake Wylie's only Montessori preschool — celebrating over 10 years in operation. Multi-aged primary classroom for ages 3–5 with a full set of Montessori materials. Natural outdoor playground, garden, and picnic area. Founded by a Montessori-trained educator and Lake Wylie community member. Small by design. Traditional school calendar.
Ages 3–5 · Mon–Fri 8:30am–12:30pm · Half-Day
Montessori
Ages 3–5
Lake Wylie
Christian Early Childhood · Since 1979
Pine Grove Christian Academy
~10 min · Lake Wylie SC
One of the Lake Wylie community's oldest trusted childcare providers — open since March 12, 1979. The Child Development Center accepts infants from 6 weeks old through 3 years. Full-day K4 and K5 programs. Faith-based and community-rooted. Known for long-tenured staff and care that spans generations of Palisades-area families.
Infant (6 weeks) – K5 · Full-Day · Christian · Est. 1979
Infant from 6 Weeks
Full-Day
Christian
Private Preschool · National Network
The Goddard School — Lake Wylie
~13 min · Lake Wylie SC
Part of the national Goddard School franchise network — play-based early childhood education with a strong academic foundation. Serves infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. Known for structured curriculum, nurturing environment, and consistent parent communication. The Lake Wylie location serves the lake corridor community.
Infant · Toddler · Preschool · Play-Based
National Network
Lake Wylie
Play-Based
Daycare & Preschool · Extended Hours
Cadence Academy Preschool
~12 min · 2726 W Arrowood Rd, Charlotte NC
Lake Wylie's only Montessori preschool — celebrating over 10 years in operation. Multi-aged primary classroom for ages 3–5 with a full set of Montessori materials. Natural outdoor playground, garden, and picnic area. Founded by a Montessori-trained educator and Lake Wylie community member. Small by design. Traditional school calendar.
6:30am–6:30pm · Mon–Fri · Serves 28278
Extended Hours
Infant–Pre-K
Berewick Area
Montessori Methods · Infant–School Age
Oakcrest Preparatory Academy
~10 min · Steele Creek, Charlotte NC
Licensed childcare center in the Steele Creek corridor using traditional and Montessori methods. Promotes creativity, independence, and positive self-esteem. Spanish and sign language introduced to young learners. Before and after school care with homework help for school-age children. Learn Every Day curriculum covering math, science, art, sensory play, movement, and literacy.
Infant (6 weeks) – K5 · Full-Day · Christian · Est. 1979
Montessori Methods
Steele Creek
Spanish & Sign Language
JK & Pre-K · Inside The Community
Palisades Episcopal — Little Explorers & JK
Walking distance · 13120 Grand Palisades Pkwy, Charlotte NC
For families who want to start at PES from the very beginning. Junior Kindergarten and Pre-K through the Little Explorers Series — on the same 9-acre campus, steps from the Residents Club pool. The advantage: continuity from early childhood all the way through 8th grade without ever changing schools. Indexed tuition available.
Infant · Toddler · Preschool · Play-Based
In The Community
JK–Pre-K
Episcopal
Find Your Fit
20 Neighborhoods. One Extraordinary Community.
From gated golf-course estates to family-friendly homes on the lake, explore each of The Palisades' distinct neighborhoods.
Montage
3,349–6,000 sq ft
4–6 bed
Golf course views
$700,000 – $1,200,000
The Crossings at Montage, gated with security patrol. Stunning exteriors on tree-lined golf course homesites.
The Ranch
8,000–10,000 sq ft
5–7 bed
House facilities
$1,500,000 – $2,500,000
Charlotte's only gated equestrian neighbourhood. A commercial horse barn available to residents. True luxury acreage living.
Westerham
2,879–4,715 sq ft
4–6 bed
11 residences only
$1,100,000 – $1,800,000
An exclusive gated enclave of just 11 homes. Custom luxury in a smaller footprint — without sacrificing a single appointment.
Ashton Oaks
3,610–7,100 sq ft
4–6 bed
3-car garage
$1,100,000 – $2,000,000
Exquisite custom homes by 17+ builders. Gated luxury on some of The Palisades' finest lots.
Bear Creek
2,955–5,055 sq ft
4–6 bed
2–3 car garage
$800,000 – $1,300,000
Four-sided brick architecture in a gated setting. All lots built out, a fully established, turn-key community.
Crosshaven
3,325–5,500 sq ft
4–6 bed
Golf & lake views
$750,000 – $1,100,000
Elegant 4-sided brick homes on mature, tree-lined streets. Some lots front Lake Wylie or the golf course.
Eagles Landing
3,465–5,041 sq ft
4–6 bed
4-sided brick
$750,000 – $1,100,000
Four-sided brick homes with striking architecture. Some of the most classically designed homes in The Palisades.
Turtle Point
8,000–10,000 sq ft
4–7 bed
Golf frontage
$750,000 – $975,000
4-sided brick homes by Shea, Niblock, and St. Lawrence. Most with 3-car garages facing holes 2–5 of The Palisades CC.
TreeTops
3,000–4,000 sq ft
3–4 bed
Kingswood Custom
$875,000 – $1,100,000
Kingswood Custom Homes, a legacy builder with roots in England and 30 years in the Carolinas. Elevated craftsmanship throughout.
Showing 9 of 20 neighborhoods · Including Austins Creek, Briar Cliff, Highcliff, Lanterns, Marbella, Morningside, Rusty Creek, Whispering Pines & more
Schools Are One of the First Questions We Answer
Ask the Neighbors —
Not Just the Internet.
Ken and AJ have navigated these decisions as parents in this community. They know the differences between the options, the families who use each school, and what most people don't find out until they're already here.
professional sports teams · 29 min to Uptow
Carowinds — 14 coasters, waterpark · 10 min away
U.S. National Whitewater Center — #1 in Charlotte
NASCAR Hall of Fame + Charlotte Motor Palisades Park
Elementary — GreatSchools 8/10, top 20% NC
Palisades High School — brand new, inside the community
Palisades Episcopal — walking distance, 10:1 ratio, Niche A+
Walnut Grove — $10K/yr, K–12, Class of 2026 earned $4.5M in scholarships
Gaston Day — top-ranked non-sectarian college prep, 25 min via Hwy 49
✓
Journey Montessori — Lake Wylie's only Montessori preschoolSpeedway
13,400 acres of Lake Wylie · boat club 8 min away
McDowell Nature Preserve · 2 miles from your door
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Charlotte's Lakeside Community
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