School buildings are graded on an annual basis. The purpose of these inspections is to ensure that proper sanitation is maintained in all Winston-Salem/Forsyth schools as well as in all private schools in Forsyth County. The inspection process covers everything from proper maintenance of the school facilities to correctly controlling chemicals used within the school building. Schools are graded on a 100 point scale and given number grade; however, no letter grade is posted for the school building.

School cafeterias within the school systems are graded on a quarterly basis and are regulated in accordance with the Rules Governing the Sanitation of Foodservice Establishments. The grading scale is on a 100 point scale and a letter grade is assigned and posted. A score of 90 to 100 is awarded an A, a score of 80 to 89.5 is awarded a B and a score of 79 to 79.5 is awarded a C. A score below 70 results in an immediate suspension of the operating permit. The purpose of the cafeteria inspection is to ensure the proper storage, preparation and serving of food as well as the proper cleaning and sanitation of all facilities and equipment.