Serving 311 students in grades Prekindergarten-2, Southwest Primary ranks in the bottom 50% of all schools in North Carolina for overall test scores (math proficiency is bottom 50%, and reading proficiency is bottom 50%).
The percentage of students achieving proficiency in math is 30-34% (which is lower than the North Carolina state average of 47%). The percentage of students achieving proficiency in reading/language arts is 20-24% (which is lower than the North Carolina state average of 46%).
The student-teacher ratio of 14:1 is lower than the North Carolina state level of 15:1.
Minority enrollment is 73% of the student body (majority Hispanic and Black), which is higher than the North Carolina state average of 57% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Quick Facts (2025-26)
- Grades: Prekindergarten-2
- Enrollment: 311 students
- Student-Teacher Ratio: 14:1
- Minority Enrollment: 73%
- Math Proficiency: 30-34%
- Reading Proficiency: 20-24%
- Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), NC Dept. of Education
Top Rankings
Southwest Primary ranks among the top 20% of public schools in North Carolina for:
Category
Attribute
Diversity
Percent Eligible For Free Lunch
Student Attention
School Overview
Southwest Primary's student population of 311 students has declined by 11% over five school years.
The teacher population of 23 teachers has stayed relatively flat over five school years.
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-2
(No virtual instruction)
(No virtual instruction)
Total Students
311 students
Gender %
Total Classroom Teachers
23 teachers
School Motto
Southwest will create lifelong learners and productive citizens who are respectful, responsible, and safe.
School Rankings
The diversity score of Southwest Primary is 0.77, which is more than the diversity score at state average of 0.71. The school's diversity has stayed relatively flat over five school years.
Math Test Scores (% Proficient)
(16-17)30-34%
47%
Reading/Language Arts Test Scores (% Proficient)
(16-17)20-24%
46%
Student-Teacher Ratio
14:1
15:1
American Indian
n/a
1%
Asian
8%
4%
Hispanic
30%
21%
Black
25%
25%
White
27%
43%
Hawaiian
n/a
n/a
Two or more races
10%
6%
All Ethnic Groups
Participates in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP)
Yes
Eligible for Free Lunch
99%
68%
Eligible for Reduced Lunch (13-14)
12%
7%
School Statewide Testing
School District Name
Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), NC Dept. of Education
Profile last updated: 02/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What schools are Southwest Primary often compared to?
Southwest Primaryis often viewed alongside schools like Longview Elementary School by visitors of our site.
What percent of students have achieved state testing proficiency in math and reading?
30-34% of students have achieved math proficiency (compared to the 47% NC state average), while 20-24% of students have achieved reading proficiency (compared to the 46% NC state average).
How many students attend Southwest Primary?
311 students attend Southwest Primary.
What is the racial composition of the student body?
30% of Southwest Primary students are Hispanic, 27% of students are White, 25% of students are Black, 10% of students are Two or more races, and 8% of students are Asian.
What is the student-teacher ratio of Southwest Primary?
Southwest Primary has a student ration of 14:1, which is lower than the North Carolina state average of 15:1.
What grades does Southwest Primary offer ?
Southwest Primary offers enrollment in grades Prekindergarten-2 (No virtual instruction).
What school district is Southwest Primary part of?
Southwest Primary is part of Hickory City Schools.
School Reviews
Review Southwest Primary. Reviews should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
Recent Articles

Bullying, Name-Calling & Put-Downs: Parent Guide 2025
Practical tips for parents to address bullying, name-calling, and put-downs鈥攚ith 2025 data, policies, and expert strategies.

What Is a Magnet School? (2025 Guide)
Explore what a magnet school is, how it works, and its benefits in 2025. Clear explanation for parents, students, and educators.

Cooperative Learning in 2025: Evidence, Best Practices & Challenges
Explore cooperative learning in 2025鈥攏ew data, updated practices, expert insights for educators and families.