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2020 Best High Schools in the Cleveland AreaAbout this List

Explore the best high schools in your area based on rigorous analysis of key statistics and millions of reviews from students and parents using data from the U.S. Department of Education.  Read more on how this ranking was calculated.

1 – 25 of 239
Best Schools
239 results

  1. Hawken School

    • Private School
    • Gates Mills, OH
    • PK, K-12
    • 122 reviews
    #1 Best Private High Schools in Cleveland Area

    Senior: Hawken School is centuries ahead of other high schools.

    The academics are why you attend. They are also the bane of the students' existence, but, to be honest, Hawken proves that challenge is the only way to further understanding. It is extremely hard and tedious at times, but it will prepare anyone for college. Rigor is taught to be adapted to, and whether that means a little less sleep, 8 hours of staring at a computer after school, or having a complete meltdown depends on the scenario. It causes legitimate regrets at times, but the curriculum is broken down in a way that gets you right down to the breaking point and then brings you right back to normal. By putting students firsthand through the infamous phrase, "life sucks", Hawken gets you ready for the future. Check the post-Hawken statistics, they speak for themselves. Hawken's brain-slamming methodology objectively works.
    Read 122 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,082 Students
    • 5:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  2. Western Reserve Academy

    • Private School
    • Hudson, OH
    • 9-12
    • 193 reviews
    #2 Best Private High Schools in Cleveland Area

    Alum: I couldn't fathom rating Reserve anything less than five stars. From the first day of preseason to commencement, my life revolved around WRA; it's truly a lifestyle. If you'll allow me to informally list what I hold dear about Reserve, I'll do so. There's deep tradition, memorable and heartfelt events, the best of friends, innovation and technology at every corner, a plethora of opportunity, Reserve Green, 1.5 hour award ceremonies that you strangely miss, advisors that are like family, teachers that will have you over to their house for help, a menu that will make you excited for lunch, an athletic system that allows you to try new sports at no risk, a beautiful campus, and an unmatched experience that will be sure to leave you speechless when you finish your four years. I apologize for the monstrosity of a list but its honestly quite short for what I have to say about Reserve. Go green!
    Read 193 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 405 Students
    • 8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  3. Hathaway Brown School

    • Private School
    • Shaker Heights, OH
    • PK, K-12
    • 115 reviews
    #3 Best Private High Schools in Cleveland Area

    Alum: I thank HB for the confidence, courage, and determination that I possess as a young woman in today's world. As I embark on my journey to college this fall, I say with the upmost confidence that I am more than prepared because of the education I received at this school. Its students have inspired me and its faculty and staff have pushed me to excellence. I'm grateful to have this place to call my second home!
    Read 115 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 850 Students
    • 8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  4. Laurel School

    • Private School
    • Shaker Heights, OH
    • PK, K-12
    • 103 reviews
    #4 Best Private High Schools in Cleveland Area

    Parent: We have two daughters in high school at Laurel - both extremely different and the school has been an invaluable partner to both. The teachers are truly outstanding - there to help girls find their passion as well as work through challenges. The school has been a flexible partner for both daughters who chose to pursue sports at a high level, enabling them to work with their teachers and classmates to travel to competitions and training events while managing and maintaining high academic achievement. During the inevitable sports related injury, the school was right there to partner with them to try new things to “fill the gap” with non-physical activities such as creative writing, model UN, entrepreneurship, internships -which is enabling them to develop a beautiful mix of skills and interests before graduating.
    Read 103 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 645 Students
    • 7:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  5. University School

    • Private School
    • Hunting Valley, OH
    • PK, K-12
    • 107 reviews
    #5 Best Private High Schools in Cleveland Area

    Parent: US has grown in the last decade to maintain its place as a national leader on the education scene. The school has assembled a phenomenal faculty. Students are challenged and then provided the support they need to succeed. Alumni say that they are better prepared than their peers for college and then go on to become leaders in whatever field they choose. I looked into where they go after US and learned discovered they hold leadership positions at Fitbit, Fidelity, Harvard, Stamford, Dallas Cowboys, Cleveland Indians, Los Angeles Dodgers, Oakland As, New England Patriots, Key Bank, Heinen's, Estee Lauder, Yellowstone Park, and in schools in Cleveland and around the country. My son is a lifer. The only regret I hear from fellow parents is that they wish they started earlier. The new leadership team is first rate.
    Read 107 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 870 Students
    • 6:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  6. Solon High School

    • Solon City School District, OH
    • 9-12
    • 388 reviews
    #1 Best Public High Schools in Cleveland Area

    Senior: Amazing staff and very diverse! Food is awful and parents should be more involved. Solon HS is very good with academics but not very good with school culture and relationships. While I feel prepared for college academically I cannot say that solon HS prepared me socially for life beyond high school. They did not bother to connect with me in ways that went beyond the school environment and I do not feel that they cared for me personally. Academics are important but so are relationships and helping to make every student feel like a part of the school. Also, the administration is more concerned with test scores and being the best than checking in with kids personally. You become a number, a test score, to them.
    Read 388 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,646 Students
    • 19:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  9. Lake Ridge Academy

    • Private School
    • North Ridgeville, OH
    • K-12
    • 63 reviews
    #6 Best Private High Schools in Cleveland Area

    Sophomore: As a student here, I find the school very nice, a small school and it is perfect for kids that have problems with bullies, I have to say it is pretty pricey for what you get out of it, maybe if they changed the tuition from going up every year to staying the same, they do not understand mental illness. The dress code is good. Middle school teachers are so nice and understanding, the lower school teachers are too! Sports though... We have good runners and soccer players, that is about it. Personally I think that there should be a football team and a softball team, boys volleyball, and girls football. Overall it is a great school, definitely send your child here!
    Read 63 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 417 Students
    • 7:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  10. Beachwood High School

    • Beachwood City School District, OH
    • 9-12
    • 105 reviews
    #2 Best Public High Schools in Cleveland Area

    Senior: Beachwood has a variety of classes to offer - both regular, Honors and AP. We have a phenomenal EXCEL/TECC program so there are options for everyone to find their niche. We have tons of clubs and extracurricular activities that matches just about anyone's interests from sports to plays to robotics to cultural clubs - you name it. We have small classes so you have lots of one-on-one with your teachers and the school and teachers make themselves available for anyone to come in and talk if they need extra help. You couldn't ask for a better school system and people.
    Read 105 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 631 Students
    • 14:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  11. Hudson High School

    • Hudson City School District, OH
    • 9-12
    • 270 reviews
    #3 Best Public High Schools in Cleveland Area

    Parent: Highly competitive and excellent college prep high school. Sports are excellent with special recognition going to two time defending State Champion Boy's Cross Country team. Cross Country coaches are fantastic with sports and life lessons! Students are well prepared for college with many AP and college course opportunities while attending high school.
    Read 270 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,562 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  12. Orange High School

    • Orange City School District, OH
    • 9-12
    • 107 reviews
    #4 Best Public High Schools in Cleveland Area

    Alum: I liked my years at OHS. I was very active in extracurricular activities. I was a Lionette (the drill and dance team), in French Club, a member of the Orange Thespians and Orange Arts Seminar, and Stage Crew. I found a true love for the sciences, especially Biology. In 10th grade, my biology teacher let me stay after school and do extra dissections. She made a real impact on my life and academic career. I think my decision to go into medicine has to do a lot with her.
    Read 107 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 712 Students
    • 13:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  13. Saint Ignatius High School

    • Private School
    • Cleveland, OH
    • 9-12
    • 154 reviews
    #7 Best Private High Schools in Cleveland Area

    Senior: I absolutely love Ignatius. My brothers and I all went here, and I believe it is the best school in the state. It truly prepares you for life, and connects you with people around the entire globe. Ignatius's reach truly spreads much farther than Cleveland. From interesting people, to devoted teachers, to a truly tight knit community, everything about Ignatius is fantastic. It not only prepares you as a student, but also as a human being, which is why it is the best. It makes you a complete person, and ready to tackle the world. Go 'Cats!
    Read 154 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,507 Students
    • 14:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  14. Andrews Osborne Academy

    • Private School
    • Willoughby, OH
    • PK, K-12
    • 36 reviews
    #8 Best Private High Schools in Cleveland Area

    Senior: I love AOA! I have been there for more than 4 years now and I can’t imagine myself anywhere else. The classes are challenging, but the teachers are always there to help you whenever you need it. The classes are small and I feel like I get all the attention that I need in order to succeed. The lunch is okay, there are many options for different diets. The theatre program and arts program in general needs some work but is still in the process of being completely revamped. The athetics are pretty good, they recruit a lot of foreigners to play sports for them. Overall it’s a great school for people who love to learn, love different kinds of people, and love the feeling of a close knit, family like community full of creativity!
    Read 36 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 350 Students
    • 7:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  15. Chagrin Falls High School

    • Chagrin Falls Exempted Village School District, OH
    • 9-12
    • 171 reviews
    #5 Best Public High Schools in Cleveland Area

    Junior: The teachers are great! They are very engaging with the students and have many opportunities for students to visit them if they have questions. The school has multiple facilities to help students with their classes. For example, the school has a Math Lab where students can see a mathematics teacher during a free period and receive math help. Also, there is a Writing Lab with upperclassmen who act as writing interns and assist not only highschoolers but younger kids too with their homework.
    Read 171 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 798 Students
    • 19:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  16. Rocky River High School

    • Rocky River City School District, OH
    • 9-12
    • 166 reviews
    #6 Best Public High Schools in Cleveland Area

    Senior: Rocky River High school has been overall a good experience for me. I definitely have been pushed to do my best in classes. I wish the school counselors were more approachable and knowledgeable. A lot of times I would go down to the counseling office and they wouldn't even be there! Besides that, my experience has been pretty okay.
    Read 166 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 849 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  17. St. Edward High School

    • Private School
    • Lakewood, OH
    • 9-12
    • 150 reviews
    #9 Best Private High Schools in Cleveland Area

    Senior: St. Edward High School truly is what I consider to be my home and community. I am a current senior at the school and it has offered me so many great opportunities. I have been involved with the performing arts programs, International Baccalaureate program, National Honor Society, Holy Cross Society, Leadership Retreats, and service programs that the school offers to all students. St. Edward High School has also help me build my character and develop as a leader. The school community is a strong brotherhood that I will forever remember in my life. The academics have challenged me and improved my own skills as a student. There is something for everyone to be involved in at St. Edward High School.
    Read 150 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 963 Students
    • 10:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  18. Our Lady of the Elms

    • Private School
    • Akron, OH
    • 7-12
    • 61 reviews
    #10 Best Private High Schools in Cleveland Area

    Alum: Academically, it prepared me well for my college classes. The Elms embraces boldness and empowerment, which is distinguishable amongst local high schools. Elms girls exude class, respect, and intelligence. I wish that the music department was better supported. As someone currently pursuing a music performance degree, I think that the Elms could do more, as it does with sports and clubs. The Elms is notable for its traditions as well! Welcome Week bonds the freshmen with their senior big sisses through song and costumes. It is a highlight for many Elms girls. Elms Olympics, Deck the Halls, Junior Ring, Soup Day, Senior Farewell, amongst others make the Elms unique. Although academically driven, OLE is a community that supports everyone. Teachers are always willing to work with students and understand disabilities & other factors that affect academics. OLE inspires young women to pursue their highest dreams and prepares them for life.
    Read 61 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 157 Students
    • 9:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  19. Aurora High School

    • Aurora City School District, OH
    • 9-12
    • 161 reviews
    #7 Best Public High Schools in Cleveland Area

    Senior: Overall, my experience at Aurora was enjoyable. The teachers genuinely care about their student’s performance. For them, the student’s success is their success. Whenever, I struggled in a subject, I always had the opportunity to go in for extra help. The student can make private one-on-one sessions with a teacher during a free period, or he or she can stay after school and work in a group for an upcoming test. Aurora is a challenging school with many AP classes so the students are very fortunate to have this assistance. I felt like my overall education was valued. As for extracurricular activities, Aurora has plenty to choose from. From various sports, to theatre, to band, one is sure to find his or her niche. The importance of the student’s wellbeing carries from the classroom to these activities. The advisors/coaches truly want everyone to enjoy themselves. I am grateful to be graduating from Aurora. It has lots to offer that will help the students succeed in their future.
    Read 161 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 986 Students
    • 18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  22. Gilmour Academy

    • Private School
    • Gates Mills, OH
    • PK, K-12
    • 69 reviews
    #11 Best Private High Schools in Cleveland Area

    Parent: Gilmour is a great for many reasons. There are many wonderful academic, extra-curricular and sports opportunities. The moral and spiritual development of the students is a great priority. Most teachers are extremely dedicated and willing to assist students in any way they can. A few teachers would be more successful teaching on a collegiate level, since they basically utilize a lecture style of teaching. Overall, a wonderful school with a very welcoming atmosphere.
    Read 69 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 655 Students
    • 11:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  23. Walsh Jesuit High School

    • Private School
    • Cuyahoga Falls, OH
    • 9-12
    • 197 reviews
    #12 Best Private High Schools in Cleveland Area

    Alum: Both of my older brothers went to Walsh, and I just graduated this year. My younger sister will be attending Walsh next year. Walsh has opened our minds through science, English, theology, math, and more. The experiences I had at Walsh I will never forget. Walsh also brought my best friends and I together, whom I will never forget and could not live without. The faculty and staff are super friendly and are truly examples of "Men and Women for/with others." I am so proud to call myself an alumni of Walsh Jesuit. I would not be who I am today if it wasn't for Walsh Jesuit and everything it has provided to me.
    Read 197 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,099 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  24. Shaker Heights High School

    • Shaker Heights City School District, OH
    • 8-12
    • 305 reviews
    #8 Best Public High Schools in Cleveland Area

    Alum: Going through Shaker Heights High School, I've had a great experience during those four years. I've made friends that I believe I will remain in touch with even though we're going into different paths in our lives. I've been very privileged to obtain the education I received, especially the AP classes and the IB Diploma Programme I entered and received my IB Diploma through. I was involved in many sports and clubs that I was able to manage my time with and that allowed me to meet different people with different cultures, backgrounds, and lifestyles, so I'm forever grateful for that. Although SHHS has its problems like any high school has, it provides extraordinary opportunities that are unrivaled by any other.
    Read 305 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,724 Students
    • 15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  25. Bay High School

    • Bay Village City School District, OH
    • 9-12
    • 94 reviews
    #9 Best Public High Schools in Cleveland Area

    Parent: Bay High is a warm and welcoming school where parents and teachers care equally about students. The standards are high, but the supports are in place to help make every student successful. Although there is very little diversity at the school, the administration makes every effort to ensure success for every student. Parents are very involved and involvement in student sports and activities is highly encouraged!
    Read 94 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 837 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  26. Mayfield High School

    • Mayfield City School District, OH
    • 8-12
    • 220 reviews
    #10 Best Public High Schools in Cleveland Area

    Senior: Mayfield High School is an absolutely fantastic institution to be a part of. There's a massive diversity in the types of classes every student has the chance to take. Moreover, there are several different class types from standard to self-paced to online. In fact, Mayfield has recently implemented a full-day self-paced option for seniors. Furthermore, the administration at Mayfield is very involved with the student body and does not restrict students from any form of self-expression. The school and the students are never at odds with one another and the school definitely listens to and accommodates the students' opinions and views. Finally, there is a giant list of extracurriculars that a student can take part in and every interest is represented and encouraged.
    Read 220 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,777 Students
    • 7:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  27. Brecksville-Broadview Heights High School

    • Brecksville-Broadview Heights City School District, OH
    • 9-12
    • 314 reviews
    #11 Best Public High Schools in Cleveland Area

    Senior: The education that I received at Brecksville-Broadview Height High School was amazing, with lots of options for classes, sports and clubs. The teachers are all very interactive, always wanting the best for each individual student, and any parent involvement is greatly encouraged by the administration and the teachers. While the school may not be the most diverse, it always feels very safe and comfortable, with great facilities both for education and for sports along with after school activities. I had a great experience at the school, and it has great history of excellence because my mom had also gone to Brecksville, and she had a similarly good experience however many years ago.
    Read 314 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,360 Students
    • 21:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  28. Kenston High School

    • Kenston Local School District, OH
    • 8-12
    • 213 reviews
    #12 Best Public High Schools in Cleveland Area

    Senior: I really enjoyed my experience at Kenston High School! One of my favorite things about the school is that it is very clean and new! The school is a little over ten years old, and it has been kept in very good shape. The teachers are very passionate and helpful. The school allows students to express themselves without many strict rules. Many opportunities are offered to students throughout their career at Kenston. The classes offered are also important because not all schools offer classes such as: Geology of the National Parks, Pre-calculus, and Mythology. Overall, I am proud to say that I will be a graduate and alumni of Kenston High School.
    Read 213 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 983 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  29. Beaumont School

    • Private School
    • Cleveland Heights, OH
    • 9-12
    • 179 reviews
    #13 Best Private High Schools in Cleveland Area

    Senior: Beaumont School is a private, all-girls, International Baccalaureate, Catholic school located in Cleveland Heights, Ohio. It is accredited by the Ohio Department of Education, the North Central Association of Secondary Schools and Colleges, and the Ohio Catholic School Accrediting Association. this school is a small community and it allows you to become very involved with others. You will gain outside experiences through clubs, various events, and sports. Beaumont collaborates with many organizations to engage the revelation of truth and justice.
    Read 179 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 337 Students
    • 11:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  30. Sponsored

    St. Rita School

    • Private School
    • Solon, OH
    • PK, K-8
    • 6 reviews

    Middle School Student: The school is Great! It has many different features including a science lab and a computer lab. Teachers work hard to get you ready for High School and are all kind. My only dislike is the Spanish course at the school. They don't do a good job teaching Spanish. I was there until the 6th grade and I knew almost no Spanish while in the new School I am going to, everyone can speak Spanish fluently! Otherwise, the school is great.
    Read 6 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 470 Students
    • 17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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    Sandy Spring Friends School

    • Private School
    • Sandy Spring, MD
    • PK, K-12
    • 53 reviews

    Parent: New to SSFS, we were welcomed warmly by staff. Our son was given numerous opportunities to connect with other students and has made many friends. It was magic in the first week of term to see him smile, laugh and grow in confidence as he settled in. The academics are excellent and suddenly the 'not so keen student' is interested in his studies. He really loves history now! The organisation of the school day and year has been done thoughtfully and allows students time to decompress - this is such a blessing. I was impressed that the school guided our son in how to study, how to manage his time, to organise his work. Staff care. More than one teacher gave time after school if extra input was needed. Art (ceramics) was enjoyed for the first time and Farming for Fitness has been amazing. The parent association is active; people are friendly and kind to each other. People do what they can. Choosing SSFS was the best decision we ever made for our son.
    Read 53 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 603 Students
    • 8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  36. Sponsored

    The Steward School

    • Private School
    • Richmond, VA
    • PK, K-12
    • 35 reviews

    Senior: In my opinion, the Steward School has been a wonderful asset in my life. Although there are some things that could definitely be improved, especially communication amongst faculty and administration and students, throughout my time at Steward I have only seen things get better, and I can't wait to see how the school improves in the future! They do an excellent job of preparing students for college especially, and I cannot praise my teachers enough for the support they have given me.
    Read 35 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 670 Students
    • 7:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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