2024 Best High Schools in the Baltimore Area

• Baltimore, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.44 out of 5  312 reviews

Parent: Bryn Mawr School and their teachers and administration continue to impress us. There is so much warmth, kindness, engagement and a true passion motivating our girls to be excited about learning and growing! My daughter's 5th grade teacher has helped her grow as a writer and given her such a strong foundation and understanding of math as well. We feel very lucky that our daughter has been able to learn in such a positive and supportive environment.... Read 312 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 713

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Baltimore, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.44 out of 5  72 reviews

Senior: The four years that I've spent at this school have simultaneously been the hardest and best years of my life to date. Although I did miss out of some experiences due to COVID, I was still able to make the most out of it, whether it be hanging out with my friends - wherever and whenever - or trying new classes and experiences. I feel as though the school truly prepared me for the college experience because of their elite guidance, especially in the last two years when it mattered the most.... Read 72 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,016

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Stevenson, MD•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.2 out of 5  102 reviews

Alum: My exchange year experience in St. Timothy’s school was excellent. I’m from Spain and I spent my sophomore year as a boarder. I had never spent a year away from home and I was terrified at first but after only a month this school felt like a new home to me and I made friends that are like family. The girls were very welcoming and I made friends from all over the world. Right now after two years I still keep in touch with them, I’ve recently come to Maryland to visit my best friend from school. One of the best things about St. Tim’s are the teachers, I could always count on them for an extra explanation which made adapting to the IB program easy. After some time I even switched to harder classes! St. Tim’s allowed me to grow as a person, I went from being very shy to being confident and independent. St. Timothy’s encouraged me to participate in every class and I learnt how to enjoy expressing my opinions in public. I will always feel part of the st. Tim’s community.... Read 102 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 175

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Annapolis, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.6 out of 5  198 reviews

Parent: As a former teacher and a Key parent for the past 12 years, I’ve taken a good long look “under the hood,” and I’m really grateful for our experience. What I appreciate most is the balance that Key School models. The work is demanding without being sterile, and athletics are popular without being exclusive. Key classrooms are highly integrative and collaborative thanks to incredible teachers who guide active learning. So, if you want your child to explore critical concepts, draw connections within and across disciplines, and clearly communicate their thoughts, Key is for you!... Read 198 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 660

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Owings Mills, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.36 out of 5  167 reviews

Senior: I have had the pleasure of attending McDonogh School for two years, and I must say that my overall experience has been nothing short of amazing. The faculty and staff are incredibly knowledgeable and caring, always going above and beyond to ensure that every student feels supported and valued. The curriculum is rigorous yet engaging, and I have been able to explore a wide range of subjects and extracurricular activities that have helped me grow as a person. The school culture is one of inclusivity and diversity, and I have made countless lifelong friendships with people from all walks of life. I am truly grateful for my time at McDonogh School and would recommend it to anyone looking for a top-notch education and a welcoming community.... Read 167 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,455

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Baltimore, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.4 out of 5  82 reviews

Alum: I attended Park School for 13 years (Kindergarten-12th Grade) and I couldn’t have wished for a better experience. I received a phenomenal education which prepared me well for college and taught me core values of advocating for myself, thinking outside the box, challenging my mind and more! The teachers want nothing more than for their students to succeed which is made possible by their incredible teaching as well as other recourses Park offers such as tutoring, counseling, and more! I honestly have nothing bad to say about Park School and after 13 years, I believe that speaks for itself. The school mainly has a hands on learning style but teachers frequently ask their students how they thrive (and what learning style works best for them). Personally, I believe it’s the incredible staff and students excited to learn which makes Park so special but we also have a incredible campus. I wish everyone had the opportunity to attend this pre K- 12 institution.... Read 82 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 856

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Howard County Public Schools, MD•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.94 out of 5  363 reviews

Senior: River Hill overall has a very strong academic system and an excellent environment. The system encourages kids to pursue their dreams and provides them with the tools necessary to do so. Most of the teachers genuinely care about their students and will go the extra mile for them(after/before school help, providing resources, etc). Due to the number of kids who go on to prestigious universities, there is some pressure on the students that can be overbearing at times. However, school counselors are there to deal with these issues and anything else that may arise. Overall, River Hill is a great place to send your children!... Read 363 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,508

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• Howard County Public Schools, MD•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.05 out of 5  326 reviews

Junior: I love Marriotts Ridge. Almost all of my teachers have genuinely cared for the student’s education and put in full effort to teach them. I had a lot of teachers I was very comfortable and close with. I always felt safe at Marriotts Ridge. All the counselors are so kind and helpful as well. I love how involved with sports, clubs, etc everyone is. Most of the students value their education which sets a great example for everyone else, and creates a studious environment. Spirit weeks and athletic events are always so enjoyable, especially because so many people participate!... Read 326 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,662

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Owings Mills, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.58 out of 5  111 reviews

Parent: Our daughter started at Garrison Forest in 5th grade (switched from a Baltimore County Public School) and we wish we moved her sooner! She is currently in 6th grade and has blossomed into a wonderful student, a passionate leader, and a caring community member. Garrison offers the most caring, encouraging, welcoming and, simultaneously, academically rigorous experience. Every person on that campus wants our daughters to succeed. The education is geared specifically toward empowering and encouraging girls to take changes in science, math, arts, sports, and anything else you can think of. Having visited and looked at all the private schools in our area, we could not imagine our daughter anywhere else. She goes to school with a huge smile on her face and come home full of amazing stories and experiences.... Read 111 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 513

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Ellicott City, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.09 out of 5  79 reviews

Parent: Peaceful, secure, country campus with outstanding teachers and hands on educational and extra curricular programs. Our son is flourishing in school academics, band, and in the middle school tennis program!... Read 79 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 761

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Baltimore, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.48 out of 5  196 reviews

Parent: We have had an AMAZING experience at RPCS. My daughter started here in kindergarten and I could not be happier with her experience. She came home almost every day telling me new things that she learned - she even completed a research project on an arctic animal! In first grade, her confidence and social coping skills have developed so much, and she can read independently now! Her favorite subjects are math and dance. The astronomy lessons in science class now have her wanting to be the first woman to walk on Mars! The concerts are so impressive here - in just two years I have seen my daughter sing, dance, and play an instrument on stage. It's truly incredible. We love being a RED!... Read 196 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 596

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• Baltimore, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.27 out of 5  106 reviews

Senior: I came to FSB as a freshman in 2019, and even throughout the COVID pandemic, I loved my time there. The other students were always friendly, which I appreciated immensely, especially as I transitioned from a middle school where I did not fit in at all. I found several groups, formed either organically/randomly or by shared extracurriculars, that I felt entirely at ease with. The teachers were incredibly supportive. I am graduating with a stronger enthusiasm for subjects like English that I liked as a freshman, and a newfound love for math and music. While I was often stressed out by assignments or exams, when I look back that stress pales in comparison to how much I enjoyed my classes, rehearsals (I loved my time in chorus and the musicals), and friendships. The college counselors were also amazing and so helpful throughout the college process.... Read 106 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 790

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Howard County Public Schools, MD•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  373 reviews

Alum: Centennial must have been one of the best academic institutions I have ever been to. Ignoring the early start time, the teachers are all approachable and open to answer any discrepancies one can have. As someone who only took the highest level of classes there, these teachers convey their ideas well and all are adequately trained to teach these classes. Each teacher has a unique style of teaching, from lectures to largely student led classes; I believe it helps with college preparation really well. They are open to suggestions and letters of recommendation, enabling me to craft a beautiful college package senior year. Indeed, these stresses together deprived me of sleep. If I could come up with criticism for the school, it would not be of the teachers, but the building itself. It is in horrid need of a renovation. The inconsistency of AC in the classrooms and the infamous crowded intersection impedes traffic, making it almost impossible to get to class before the 5 minute bell rings.... Read 373 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,377

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Broolandville, MD•

• Private School•

• 5-12

• •
  Rating 4.41 out of 5  61 reviews

Parent: My son attended 5th grade at the St. Paul's School for boys last year and will be entering 6th grade Fall 2023. He was nervous at first coming from the coed lower school. I appreciate the school's transition process in place to prepare the students and help them to feel comfortable. By the first day of 5th grade my son was more excited and less nervous. His excitement to go to school increased as the year progressed. Being in middle school did have it's challenges as my son was learning to navigate through social challenges of interacting with his peers and advocating for himself with his teachers. I must say that I have been pleased with the level of involvement and response from teachers and administrators. I saw my son grow, gaining knowledge that goes beyond the classroom. He has gained confidence, acknowledged his struggles and his areas of greatness, and most of all, exhibited a since of independence that makes me proud. A great place to learn and grow!... Read 61 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 530

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• Severna Park, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.27 out of 5  112 reviews

Parent: Severn school is a community of educators, staff, students and families who care about one another and want to see the young adults at this school excel. I’m a parent of a daughter heading to her 10th grade year and her freshman year was amazing. She was able to balance her school work, sports and extracurricular activities without any issues. As a matter of fact, it was hard getting her to leave school in the evenings. Severn offers a top notch learning environment that challenges your child but also prepares them for college. My daughter has the same advisor for the four years at Severn which gives her that comfort in knowing he’s there for her throughout any challenge. The head of the school, Doug Lagarde makes sure he communicates with the students and parents on a daily basis. He encourages the older student body to be there for the younger students. I just can’t say enough great things about this school.... Read 112 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 894

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Crownsville, MD•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.39 out of 5  87 reviews

Parent: This is our children’s first year at Indian Creek School and we remain overjoyed and satisfied with our family’s decision. Our children are truly part of a unique, diverse, and intentional community of kindness and learning. The mission of the school is alive every day and in every way! The spirit of community extends beyond learning and into the essence of the families, staff, and faculty, and it truly makes us CREEKstrong. Our children are seen and nurtured in the most compassionate, thoughtful, and meaningful ways. That is invaluable. We researched and visited other top schools, and found Indian Creek School the best fit for our son and daughter—two very different children thriving in that environment.... Read 87 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 534

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Howard County Public Schools, MD•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.1 out of 5  483 reviews

Junior: Most of Mount Hebron Highschool always reaches expectations and I rarely have had personal trouble with the school. If one teacher or activity is bad, another one will help you sort that specific problem out. I would say that most of the staff in the school are good educators and people. The activities presented to students have strong variety and easy access. I do not see many students being left behind in this school and when one is struggling, teachers are very willing to stay behind with that student and help them. There are a few things that I think could be improved. The environment between students very often toxic which I would like to see the school address. However, other than this minor issue the school is overall fantastic.... Read 483 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,639

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Sparks Glencoe, MD•

• Private School•

• 8-12

• •
  Rating 4.32 out of 5  104 reviews

Parent: Finding Oldfields has been incredible! My daughter absolutely loves it, has made incredible friends, and is receiving an excellent education. Oldfields values her for who she is, and has broadened her horizons to learn even more about herself. She discovered a love for theater she never knew she had and has relished having on stage roles and helping out behind the scenes. Top notch faculty and administration.... Read 104 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 100

• Student-teacher ratio 4:1

• Baltimore County Public Schools, MD•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.95 out of 5  657 reviews

Senior: At Eastern Tech, you meet many smart, creative, hard-working individuals who drive you to go past your limits. More so, the teachers are remarkable. The teachers inspire you to be who you want, and pursue your dreams! I am so thankful to have had teachers who inspire me to not only grow, but work hard to pass my limits. Eastern Tech has taught me to fight all challenges thrown at me, and to not shut my character down for the opinion of others. Without Eastern Tech, I would not be who I am today.... Read 657 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,215

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• Howard County Public Schools, MD•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  469 reviews

Senior: Atholton High School provides it's students with a wide range of courses such as AP, Honors, GT, and even courses at the county's college; a great opportunity. The ability to take courses about specific professions or even shadow professionals is great. Atholton High School's advanced course teachers are all somewhat passionate about their subjects. You can hear it in their voices and in the stories they tell. They enjoy teaching. However, they fail to acknowledge their age group. Yes, they teach advanced courses, classes meant for college students; but they fail to acknowledge that their actual students are still somewhat children. I have never been explicitly on anything but these are things I feel a small handful of teachers need to hear. Kids are only young once. Let them be alive just a little. Don't be judgemental of that. Don't give them loads of HW, and then preach 8 hours of sleep. Still a fairly nice school overall.... Read 469 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,456

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• Baltimore, MD•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.26 out of 5  38 reviews

Parent: Boys' Latin has been an excellent school for both of my boys. The teachers are enthusiastic and go out of their way to make sure that our boys are challenged, engaged and thriving. The administration is supportive and provides a consistent approach across all divisions for all boys. There is a strong and welcoming community of parents and families. There is also a large focus on character development and social responsibility. Overall, an excellent education and learning environment.... Read 38 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 630

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Brooklandville, MD•

• Private School•

• 5-12

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  99 reviews

Parent: The right teacher can have a profound impact on your life, and our daughters have all had exceptional teachers who care deeply about supporting students. The teachers here really see you, and they empower and inspire students to be their best. The curriculum is intellectually engaging and challenging, and the writing program is outstanding. Girls are encouraged to be curious, to be bold and take healthy risks, and to support one another on their life journeys. This campus is filled with positive energy and wonderful traditions. I can not say enough great things about this community. More importantly, our girls say how grateful they are for the education they received at SPSG.... Read 99 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 474

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Crownsville, MD•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.98 out of 5  45 reviews

Parent: I am a parent of 2 Rockbridge alumni and 1 current Rockbridge student. The school has been a great fit for all 3 of my children. Rockbridge not only provides excellent academic training, it is also unapologetically Christian, integrating biblical truth into its curriculum, culture, and administration. My 2 graduates are now attending an Ivy League university and are thriving academically, as well as actively pursuing their Christian faith. I am grateful for the Christian teaching and community that Rockbridge Academy has provided for my family!... Read 45 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 416

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Anne Arundel County Public Schools, MD•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  482 reviews

Junior: For academics and activities (clubs, sports) this is a great school! It's easy to tell how dedicated each staff member and student is to their work. That being said, it's a very high stress environment (especially during freshman year) because of the workload and often because of staff that downplays the struggles that students go through. Be prepared for some difficult teachers and annoying students. For those looking to apply, I would still say that the good outweighs the bad. As long as you develop good time management (quickly) and are ready to continuously challenge yourself with the workload, you'll be fine.... Read 482 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,854

• Student-teacher ratio 19:1

• Howard County Public Schools, MD•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  217 reviews

Junior: Glenwood is great, I am going into my third year and it has been great so far the school is very well taken care of and the teachers are very nice. I am actually doing a tree planting there this year which the school was very happy to do! Last year the school did flood a little so some of the floor tiles were taken out to replace, but they were not replaced for months after ward, closer to the end of school.... Read 217 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,298

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1