Public high schools in North Carolina serve students in grades 9 through 12 and are part of the state's public education system. These schools are funded by state and local taxes and follow the North Carolina Standard Course of Study, which outlines the curriculum for various subjects. There are over 400 public high schools in North Carolina, offering a range of academic programs, extracurricular activities, and sports. Each school is governed by a local school board, ensuring that education meets the needs of the community while adhering to state regulations.