Charles D. Owen High School
General Information
Reviews
Charles D. Owen High School is widely recognized by students, families, and alumni for its strong sense of community, approachable teachers, and welcoming atmosphere that reflects its small-town environment. Many individuals describe the school as a place where relationships matter, where teachers genuinely care about student success, and where the culture encourages students to participate in athletics, arts, and extracurricular programs. The school’s supportive spirit — often described as “valley pride” — is seen in its extracurricular teams, school events, and the overall positive engagement between staff and students.
While the school’s community involvement is a major strength, some alumni and students note that Owen High would benefit from expanding its academic opportunities, particularly in terms of advanced coursework and more specialized elective classes. A few reviews also mentioned that college-readiness guidance could be deeper and more structured. Even so, most agree that teachers make a significant effort to support their students academically and personally. Despite its rural setting and smaller size compared to large metropolitan schools, Owen High is valued for offering a safe, friendly, and connected environment where relationships extend beyond graduation and where many students feel both known and supported.
Contact Informations
Address: 99 Lake Eden Rd., Black Mountain, North Carolina, 28711, United States
Phone number: (828) 686-3852
Email / School Contact: Contact is provided through the Buncombe County Schools district communication system.
School Facts — Charles D. Owen High School
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1955 |
| Type | Public High School |
| Grades | 9–12 |
| Student Enrollment | Approximately 680+ students |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | Around 15–16 : 1 |
| Mascot | Warhorse & Warlassie |
| School Colors | Maroon and Grey |
| Accreditation | Regionally accredited through state and educational associations |
Charles D. Owen High School Rankings
| Ranking Type | Rank / Status |
|---|---|
| State Ranking | Frequently placed in the upper range of North Carolina public high schools |
| National Standing | Recognized as a solid mid-tier public high school in the U.S. |
| Math Proficiency | Above the state average in several reporting years |
| Reading Proficiency | Above the state average in several reporting years |
Charles D. Owen High School Academics
Charles D. Owen High School Faculties / Departments
- English / Language Arts
- Mathematics
- Science
- Social Studies
- Career & Technical Education
- Computer & Technology
- World Languages
- Cultural Arts (Visual Arts, Music)
- Health and Physical Education
- JROTC / Leadership
- Electives and Special Programs
Charles D. Owen High School Courses Offered and Programs / Majors
- Standard core academic courses across all grade levels
- Honors-level classes in selected subjects
- Career & Technical Education (various vocational pathways)
- Visual and Performing Arts courses
- Technology and computer-focused classes
- World language options
- Health sciences and physical development courses
- JROTC and leadership training
- State-provided virtual courses for advanced or specialized study
Online Courses / Online Learning
Owen High provides access to online and virtual learning platforms that allow students to take courses not offered on campus. These options are often used for Advanced Placement or specialized subjects, dual-enrollment opportunities through district partnerships, or credit-recovery programs. The online environment is typically supervised through an on-campus learning lab, allowing students to complete coursework with guidance as needed.
Degrees / Summer School
As a traditional U.S. public high school, Owen High awards a standard high school diploma upon completion of graduation requirements. While formal summer-school offerings vary by year and district funding, students may occasionally have access to summer academic recovery or enrichment depending on district scheduling and availability.
Average Test Scores
| Standardized Test | Average Score |
|---|---|
| SAT | Around 1180 (approximate reported average) |
| ACT | Around 25 (approximate reported average) |
Retention and Graduation Rates
The school’s graduation rate generally falls in the upper-80% to low-90% range, demonstrating consistent academic performance and student completion. Retention rates remain steady for a school of its size, with most students advancing grade-to-grade as expected. Enrollment fluctuations are typical for a rural district, but the school remains a stable and central part of its community academically and socially.
Charles D. Owen High School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Because Owen High is a public school, admission is determined by residential zoning rather than GPA or test score requirements. Students living within the attendance boundaries are automatically eligible to enroll, and academic ranges reflect the diversity of the local population rather than a selection process.
Charles D. Owen High School Acceptance Rate
As a zoned public high school, the acceptance rate is effectively 100% for eligible district residents.
Charles D. Owen High School Application Requirements
Enrollment requires district-standard documentation such as proof of residency, immunization records, prior school transcripts, and identification documents. Students transferring from outside the area will need to provide complete academic records, while families moving into the district enroll through the Buncombe County Schools registration platform. Unlike universities, no personal essays, test scores, or interviews are required.
Enrollment / Application Process
- Confirm residency within the Owen High school zone
- Complete district online registration
- Submit proof of residency documentation
- Provide prior school transcripts and academic records
- Submit immunization and medical forms
- Attend school orientation or schedule appointment for class selection
Charles D. Owen High School Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Standard Enrollment | Open year-round for district residents |
| New Student Registration | Typically completed before the start of each academic year |
| Transfer Requests | Processed according to district timelines |
| Orientation & Scheduling | Conducted during summer or upon enrollment |
Essay Prompt
Not applicable — Owen High does not require essays for admission.
Charles D. Owen High School Scholarships
While the school does not offer institutional scholarships, students can pursue local community scholarships, statewide awards, merit-based opportunities, athletic scholarships, and other external funding sources for post-secondary education. Counselors usually guide seniors through available scholarship options but do not administer internal scholarship programs.
Charles D. Owen High School Tuition Fees (Costs)
| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition for District Residents | $0 (Publicly funded) |
| Textbooks & Materials | Provided or low-cost depending on course |
| Extracurricular Fees | Varies by activity or club |
| Technology Fees | Varies by district policy |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
The student body consists of high-school students aged approximately 14–18 across grades 9 through 12. The school serves a primarily local and regional population, with demographic representation reflecting the surrounding Black Mountain community. Racial and ethnic diversity is present but more limited than in urban schools, and gender distribution is generally balanced. The environment is characterized by a close-knit student culture grounded in shared community identity, with most students having lived in the surrounding region for many years.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
Owen High supports low-income students through district resources, free or reduced-price lunch programs, and academic assistance services. Students with disabilities receive accommodations through Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and Section 504 plans, with support staff available to ensure accessibility. The level of support varies depending on district funding cycles, but the school maintains a commitment to inclusive education and offers learning assistance where needed.
Student Body
| Category | Number / Detail |
|---|---|
| Total Students | Approximately 680+ |
| Grades | 9–12 |
| International Students | Minimal to none (typical for rural U.S. public schools) |
University Diversity
Although demographic diversity at Owen High is more modest than in larger metropolitan schools, the campus fosters a strong sense of unity, community engagement, and shared identity. Diversity at the school is expressed through individual experiences, socioeconomic backgrounds, and personal interests rather than through high racial or cultural diversity. The school encourages participation in clubs, extracurriculars, and leadership programs to promote inclusiveness and cultural awareness. Even in a smaller rural school environment, students are encouraged to explore broader perspectives, respect different viewpoints, and engage in community-oriented values that contribute to a well-rounded educational experience.
Average Earnings
As a high school, Owen does not track graduate earnings, as students pursue a wide range of post-secondary pathways including college, trades, workforce entry, or military service. Income outcomes vary significantly depending on the student’s chosen career path, further education, and training. Because the school serves as the foundational K–12 institution rather than a career-specific program, there is no centralized earnings data available for graduates.
Graduation Rate
The school’s graduation rate typically ranges from the upper-80% to low-90% bracket, reflecting strong student retention and successful completion of academic requirements.
Charles D. Owen High School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
Owen High employs more than 40 full-time teachers along with support staff, counselors, administrative personnel, and specialists in areas such as media services, technical support, and student life. The student-teacher ratio, typically around 15–16:1, allows for approachable instruction and manageable classroom sizes. Several teachers hold advanced credentials or national certifications, demonstrating the school’s commitment to high educational standards and continued professional growth.
Faculty Profiles
Faculty expertise spans core subjects, arts, leadership programs, technology education, and career-technical pathways. Many instructors have long-term experience in the district, contributing to the close-knit environment that defines the school. Some teachers have received awards, certifications, or recognition for instructional excellence. Their involvement in extracurricular activities — athletics, arts programs, clubs, and community service — shows their dedication to shaping a holistic and supportive learning environment where students feel valued and guided.
Charles D. Owen High School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
As a public high school, Owen does not offer on-campus housing. Students commute from homes in the surrounding community. Campus life centers around classrooms, athletic fields, a media center, arts facilities, and student gathering spaces. School spirit plays a significant role in student life, especially through athletics, arts programs, and community events. Clubs and activities offer students opportunities to explore interests, develop leadership skills, and build strong relationships within their peer group.
Transportation
Students typically reach campus via district-operated school buses, personal vehicles, or family transportation. The school’s rural location means that public transportation options are minimal or nonexistent, making school buses the primary option for many students. Once on campus, students navigate a traditional high-school layout with accessible classroom buildings, athletic facilities, and shared common areas. Daily routines are structured but flexible, supporting an organized learning environment.
Job Openings
Employment opportunities at Owen High typically include teaching positions, support roles, athletics coaching, administrative jobs, and student services. These positions are posted through the Buncombe County Schools employment system, which manages hiring for the district. Interested applicants can monitor district job listings or contact the school’s main office for information on current vacancies or anticipated openings.