Southwest Primary School

Catawba Ridge Child Development Center has cared for Hickory children since 1985. We started small and moved to our current campus in 1988, which now holds 19 classrooms. The building could serve more than 250 children, but we keep enrollment under 200 so child-to-staff ratios stay low. We serve children from 6 weeks through 12 years. Infants have their own nursery, toddlers (12 to 24 months) build vocabulary through storytelling and rhymes, and preschool and Pre-K classes for ages 2 to 4 introduce early literacy, math, visual arts, music and dramatic play. School-age children, ages 5 to 12, come before and after classes for a quiet homework space, group games and outdoor recreation, with pickup from St. Stephens, Snow Creek and Viewmont elementary schools. The same ages can join our summer camp. Every lead teacher holds at least an associate degree in early childhood development, and teachers complete 20 or more hours of training each year. We hold a 4-star rating from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services and more than 30 years of Superior Sanitation Classification. We serve USDA-approved meals daily and accept DSS vouchers.

At Hickory Career & Arts Magnet, students can shape their high school studies around the arts and career interests. Our academies include culinary arts, music, theater, dance and visual arts. Students may also attend classes and participate in sports at Hickory High.

Tabernacle Christian School has served Hickory families since 1970. We are a private Christian school for students from PK3 through grade 12, working with families to connect education with biblical teaching. Teachers and administrators emphasize character alongside learning, including courage, kindness, service, stewardship and gratitude. Our school is a ministry of Tabernacle Baptist Church and serves families in Catawba County and surrounding communities.