2022 Best High Schools for Athletes in Essex County

• West Essex Regional School District, NJ•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  225 reviews

Junior: After moving through multiple different schools, this schools was different. I learned a lot about myself and people were accepting, the teachers were especially really easy to communicate with and I just felt comfortable overall. It made learning much easier and more enjoyable and lessened the stress. This changed in high school when stress levels increased but overall, it was a great experience.... Read 225 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Total number of sports 27

• West Orange, NJ•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.3 out of 5  166 reviews

Freshman: I live in Hackettstown, in Warren county, so I have to commute every morning(two trains and a bus), and I still could not ask for a better high school experience. The teachers are wonderful and accessible, the curriculum is rigorous but manageable, and the campus itself looks very nice. I play soccer, so I can only really speak on the quality of our soccer team, but I know that Seton Hall takes extreme pride in their sports, so whether you do football or rowing, track & field or swimming, soccer or lacrosse, the games will be competitive. Also, I've never tasted school lunch that was this good. Specifically, the bacon egg and cheese sandwiches are incredible and they also have other food like cheeseburgers, cake, smoothies, salads(also great), pies, and coffee. The cultural landscape at the Prep is also great because there are kids, as well as teachers, from so many different backgrounds.... Read 166 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Total number of sports 16

• Caldwell, NJ•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  156 reviews

Alum: I had an incredibly wonderful high school experience at the Mount, and was beyond prepared for the rigorous academic challenges of the competitive college I attended. I was accepted into every school I applied. The cost is on par with the school’s listed comparable schools, despite being a far superior high school and that is on purpose as the school’s mission is not to exclude everyone except the wealthy. The amount of scholarships the students receive is pretty incredible and shows what a smart investment a Mount education is, because oftentimes, it enables families to afford colleges that would otherwise be unaffordable. Highly recommend the Mount!... Read 156 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Total number of sports 14

• Newark Public School District, NJ•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  210 reviews

Senior: Attending East Side High School has been one of the greatest blessings I've received. It provides great programs to improve each student's experience and character during their four years. I myself enrolled in a fortunate program by the name of "Internship Academy." This four-year program gives you access to internships across the district in order for you to get experiences in the work field that you're interested in. As a freshman, I was very interested in business. However, I was not aware of what field of business I would like to study in college. The great program provided me with an entrepreneurship internship called "Future Fownders." I've attended the internship throughout all my four years of high school. Throughout this process, I've learned my strengths and weaknesses in all areas of business. And it's the reason why I'm prepared for my next chapter after high school; college.... Read 210 reviews

• grade C+

• grade A

• Total number of sports 21

• Newark Public School District, NJ•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.41 out of 5  82 reviews

Senior: My experience at weequahic high school was a short one but I made the best out of it. At first, I did not like the idea of weequahic high school but every change when I started my first year there. They had a lot of opportunities and I learn things about life. For example, you can take the class that will earn you college credits for when you graduate and you can use those credits to continue when you get in college. That is what I experience I had at weequahic and one of the opportunities there.... Read 82 reviews

• grade C

• grade A

• Total number of sports 16

• Verona Public School District, NJ•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  147 reviews

Senior: The teachers really are something else: each of them with a very unique personality, a plethora of knowledge, a willingness to help, and strong motivation to see their students succeed. Like any school, VHS has some small flaws, specifically issues with plumbing and pest control. But overall, the school is clean, staff welcome students with open arms, and there is a very tight-knit and inclusive community among the students. There's a place for everyone!... Read 147 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• Total number of sports 24

• Montclair Public Schools, NJ•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  375 reviews

Senior: First off the campus is beautiful! There is a river that runs through the school property and a beautiful bridge and seating area in both the freshman and main building. Secondly, it is a very diverse area. All types of people from all types of backgrounds attend Montclair High School, itś such a beautiful thing to see. Lastly, the curriculum provides with everything a student would need to be prepared for college and an extremely wide range of electives to choose from.... Read 375 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• Total number of sports 31

• West Orange Public Schools, NJ•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.83 out of 5  413 reviews

Senior: My experience at West Orange High School was good overall. I had some great teachers that built me up academically and helped me to become the student I am today. I matured majorly in the 4 years that I've been here and I've had some great role models to help me do so. I loved all of my history teachers so far. Some of my teachers taught me how to be independent and demonstrate even more diligence. The sense of community and diversity is amazing, along with the clubs and activities that the school has to offer. College readiness could be focused on a tad more but teachers do spend a lot of time helping students! I made a lot of great genuine friends that I never thought I would make coming into my freshman year.... Read 413 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A

• Total number of sports 20

• Glen Ridge Public School District, NJ•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  137 reviews

Junior: Good Academics, even though some CP classes can be demeaning. The course options are pretty good, and, moreso for seniors, there are some good electives to choose from. The majority of the town is pretty wealthy, and lots of aspects of the school are catered to that fact. Some extracurricular/sports activities trips and requirements could end up being quite costly. Moreover, many students can be close-minded, since the school isn't very diverse.... Read 137 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Total number of sports 22

• Millburn Township School District, NJ•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  197 reviews

Senior: Millburn is a great place to be academically, athletically, and socially challenged. Without a doubt, it's a strenuous school. The workload is tough - sometimes overbearing - but it does pay off. There are great teachers here that care about their students. My one wish for the school would be to find a way to change the perfectionist culture surrounding grades. Often, students are so stressed about getting top marks that they neglect sleep, social activities, and their mental well-being. I think the best learning environment is one where students are encouraged to do their best but their real motivation comes from a desire within to learn - not just succeed to get into that top school. I do think Millburn is placing more emphasis on the mental health of its students, and I would love to see more of it in the near future.... Read 197 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Total number of sports 29

• Cedar Grove Township School District, NJ•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  142 reviews

Senior: Cedar Grove is a close knit community where everyone knows everyone. It has always felt like home from the start. Everything that I need is here in Cedar Grove, and the high school will forever be full with memories. I have made some of my lifelong best friends here and have been provided with a great education from the teachers. Within the school, there are certain teachers that I will never ever forget because of their hard work and dedication of doing what they truly love. The High School itself offers many ways to get involved and interact with the community, and most of all, make friends. The school sets you up for the bright future ahead of you and is all about learning responsibility and taking on leadership.... Read 142 reviews

• grade B+

• grade A

• Total number of sports 15

• Newark Public School District, NJ•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.55 out of 5  55 reviews

Senior: Malcolm x shabazz has one of the best history I have heard. This school has outstanding teacher and lots of fun activities. The students of Malcolm x shabazz are very intelligent, fun, friendly and determined. The most interesting thing about a student of Malcolm x shabazz is that everyone of us has GOALS. I have lots of great experience at Malcolm x like our fashion show, games, movie night, Malcolm x day even the library has what a student needs. Malcolm x Shabazz is a safe school and a place you meet different kind of people from different countries with different cultures. Being in Malcolm x shabazz has done lots of positive things for me like having me trust myself and my teammates and being recognized NSHSS organization, giving me the opportunity of becoming a member and as a bulldog I am proud of myself and I am happy to be part of the Malcolm x family.... Read 55 reviews

• grade C minus

• grade A

• Total number of sports 15

• East Orange School District, NJ•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.32 out of 5  192 reviews

Senior: I went here for 4 years at this school. The work could be better but they try. I enjoyed being a Campus Jaguar overall. The trips, the athletic programs, and the people you meet is worth it. Pick your friends wisely, they can get you in trouble and at this school if you didn't know this before entering, you are going to find out the hard way!... Read 192 reviews

• grade D

• grade A minus

• Total number of sports 15

• Newark, NJ•

• Public School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.02 out of 5  90 reviews

Senior: Newark Tech High School, located in Newark,NJ, is a proud National Blue Ribbon school who encourages students to pursue educational excellence. This school allows students to real world experiences in their academics and career technical education programs such as Business, Health Programs, Engineering, Robotics, Auto Tech, Wielding, and Carpentry. Moreover, Newark Tech High School empowers students to succeed in their future careers and goals. Newark Tech is a Home, a Family and a Community where our motto is the Pursuit of Excellence.... Read 90 reviews

• grade B

• grade A minus

• Total number of sports 8

• South Orange-Maplewood School District, NJ•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.56 out of 5  454 reviews

Alum: The best thing about going to school at CHS was it’s focus on the arts. I got to take many classes such as animation, photography, and even CAD classes! When I tell people this was true of my high school they are often surprised. It was great prep for any students looking to get into a creative fields, and they often do produce successful creatives. It was a great school and I’m glad I attended when I did!... Read 454 reviews

• grade A

• grade A minus

• Total number of sports 24

• Newark, NJ•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.32 out of 5  69 reviews

Niche User: This school gives students a sense of community like no other. Although it has its flaws, the faculty, staff, and administration are welcoming and look to provide students with a great experience. The one thing I would say is that the school needs to put a little more into academics as opposed to athletics. This also depends on the type of student that you are and which one you sway towards more, although you can be well-rounded in both. the school should better I must add that it does have a new Girls Prep Division, separate from the Boys Prep Division (both are high schools), and the dynamic of the school has been all the more wonderful. Endless opportunities and endless ways to network!... Read 69 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A minus

• Total number of sports 12

• Livingston, NJ•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.25 out of 5  125 reviews

Middle School Student: As a student who goes to Newark Academy, there are many things about NA that you won’t find at any other school. This school has an amazing community where students and teachers are able to have a good relationship. The Equity and Inclusion team makes sure that you belong and that others understand you. The arts program is wonderful and has a variety of things for everyone. The academics go beyond the books and are very hands on. I would recommend this school to anyone in the area who cares about their child and wants them to have a good future!... Read 125 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A minus

• Total number of sports 15

• Livingston Board of Education School District, NJ•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  363 reviews

Senior: Livingston High School is a competitive school that pushes its students to reach their potential before graduating. The school offers so much from classes, clubs, and sports. There is a lot of support from teachers and counselors who guide us and prepare us for after high school. The environment is okay but it would be nicer to have more school-wide activities rather than just community.... Read 363 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A minus

• Total number of sports 24

• Newark Public School District, NJ•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 3.47 out of 5  208 reviews

Senior: At University high school we provide all students and teachers with the books, computers, laboratory equipment, technology, and other resources they need to be successful. And every school should maintain safe, clean facilities that are fit for teaching and learning. Our school is a very safe environment for anyone to come and join the phoenix family.... Read 208 reviews

• grade C minus

• grade B+

• Total number of sports 6

• Caldwell-West Caldwell School District, NJ•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  126 reviews

Alum: James Caldwell High School is a great school! The teachers really care about their students and they work diligently to create a safe and engaging environment that is open to different discussions! They are also very involved and try their best to make you advance to the best possible next step in your life, whether that is to go to college, vocational school, or straight to work. They are a great supportive and encouraging system and I spent the best four years while attending JCHS!... Read 126 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade B+

• Total number of sports 23

• Bloomfield Township School District, NJ•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  322 reviews

Junior: Bloomfield High School offers a significant number of clubs that students can participate in that addresses every interest imaginable. The classes the school offers range from courses relating to entrepreneurship to classes that touch upon criminal justice. The school also encourages the students to succeed by offering various opportunities, the most important one being the activity periods we have every Wednesday. Though I wish there were more AP classes available or more preparation for AP exams.... Read 322 reviews

• grade B

• grade B+

• Total number of sports 24

• Newark Public School District, NJ•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.92 out of 5  102 reviews

Senior: Everything you need is there. Honors, ap, and dual enrollment. Flexible schedule. Everything you need to succeed is there you just need to do you part. Prioritize. Sure have fun with clubs and extracurriculars, just remember why you came to school and you should be set!... Read 102 reviews

• grade C

• grade B+

• Total number of sports 10

• Montclair, NJ•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  114 reviews

Alum: I went to MKA from 1st grade through high school, and provided you have the means, I wholeheartedly endorse and recommend sending your child there. The academics are far more rigorous than almost anywhere else in the country, especially when it comes to reading and writing. How do I know this? As a freshman at a top college, it quickly became apparent that work that was completely routine at MKA was difficult for the vast majority of my classmates. The one thing MKA is not, is a factory for Ivy League placement. If your overriding concern is having your child attend the most prestigious possible college, then you should know that grades here are not inflated, the school's focus is not maximizing college outcomes. But if your concern if finding a place where your child can flourish, where they will grow intellectually and socially, have opportunities to pursue arts and athletics, develop in every way as a person, then I am confident you will not find a better school in the state.... Read 114 reviews

• grade A+

• grade B+

• Total number of sports —

• Irvington Public Schools School District, NJ•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.17 out of 5  199 reviews

Senior: When I first arrived as a sophomore at Irvington High School. I expected to be in a fun, complementary and enthusiastic environment. I am happy to say that those are only a few of the great benefits that Irvington High School has to offer. There are great teachers there that are willing to help their students and councelors who are always happy to sit down with students in order work out a plan suitable for their intended future plans. Since attending Irvington High School I have met students like myself that are outstanding individuals, who show great promise in being future leaders as well as contributers to society. Being in an environment that consists of such individuals has contributed towards making me grow as a person, and keeps the overall student body striving for greater heights with the firm presence of competiton that is created.... Read 199 reviews

• grade C minus

• grade B+

• Total number of sports 15

• Livingston, NJ•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.28 out of 5  46 reviews

Parent: During the pandemic school year 2020-2021, we transferred our children-- ages 5, 9, 12-- into JKHA from the local public schools for what we assumed would be one-off year, as the public schools they were to attend were slated to begin the year fully remote. Now, a year later, we are thrilled that our children will CONTINUE to attend JKHA, as we were so impressed by the academic rigor of the school, which was superior, in our estimation, to our experience at Livingston Public Schools. The other quality of JKHA is the authentic warmth of the school itself, where our children--who had NOT had any experience learning in a Jewish day school at all-- received differentiated, personalized instruction. Each of our children were known as individuals with unique strengths and challenges, and, more significantly, each of our children was uniquely supported for who they are. Very, very impressed.... Read 46 reviews

• grade A+

• grade B+

• Total number of sports 25