2023 Best High Schools in the New Orleans Area

• New Orleans, LA•

• Public School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  449 reviews

Junior: If you want to get ahead of the college crowd, Benjamin Franklin High School should be on your list. With rigorous courses and a plethora of AP courses to choose from, this school has got you covered. However, the prevailing mood from both students and teachers is usually depressive as a result, although teachers try their hardest to make classes engaging and fun. Since the school is public, you get all sorts of characters and backgrounds in one place, meaning you are certain to find a friend (the Franklin Summer Institute is a good way to start the school year off with friends!). On the flip side, it's not uncommon to not encounter half of the staff/student population until your junior year, so if a close-knit community is a must for you, avoid Ben Franklin at all costs. Overall, if you can keep up with the course load, this school is for you!... Read 449 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,017

• Student-teacher ratio 20:1

• New Orleans, LA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.42 out of 5  48 reviews

Senior: Newman is a small private school with a high tuition cost, and because of that, diversity is lacking. But that comes with the territory, and you would face this issue at any private school in Nola. That being said, as a woman of color, I have always felt safe and cared for here, as they does their best to encourage diversity and inclusion. (let it be known that POC students at Newman have very different experiences and the same can't be said for everyone) On the other hand, the school offers amazing opportunities and great academics for students. It's a community in every sense of the word, helping students build relationships and achieve academic excellence with the guidance of their teachers. Each student can feel individually supported and inspired to do their best, and even though Newman isn't perfect, the positives out weigh the negatives by a lot, and compared to other schools in New Orleans, I'm confident in saying that this is the best. ( i might be a bit biased tho)... Read 48 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 917

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Metairie, LA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.47 out of 5  45 reviews

Parent: MPCDS is truly a community that fosters the entire student. The facility and staff are very supportive and flexible to suit individual needs of the students and their families. With over 50 class offerings for High Schoolers, students can select challenging and engaging classes! We are excited to build on the foundation created at Country Day!... Read 45 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 751

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Jefferson Parish Public Schools, LA•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  334 reviews

Sophomore: I'm in my 5th year at Haynes and I love it! The teachers genuinely care and form real connections with their students. The work is hard, but it really does prepare us for college and exam season. Our school offers many AP and College-level courses, like engineering through LSU curriculum. Academic clubs, like mock trials and academic games, and STUCO are the only clubs that are really active by the second semester. If you are like me and don't like academic clubs, then there aren't many opportunities to bulk up your college resume. Our Campus is old and contains many safety hazards throughout Haynes is an amazing school with countless opportunities for scholarships and future connections in various fields.... Read 334 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 863

• Student-teacher ratio 29:1

• Jefferson Parish Public Schools, LA•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.23 out of 5  154 reviews

Senior: I have been at this school since I was in sixth grade. I love the environment and especially my classmates and teachers. I feel connected as a family and been prepared for college.... Read 154 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 822

• Student-teacher ratio 28:1

• New Orleans, LA•

• Public School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  253 reviews

Senior: I have been to many schools across the nation and for most the experience was generally the same, but Lusher was the first school where I had finally understood what a high quality education actually was. Previously, I had no standards for what a school should be because I never knew what a great school was, but Lusher opened my eyes and solidified my standards. I never truly realized what made a good teacher. Lusher's teachers, at least in my experience, are the best I have ever had. Even the worst teachers there are still better than any other school I've been too. I felt as if I could talk to the teacher about problems I have been having in class and that I would receive positive results. However, the student culture, while in appearance diverse, isn't truly diverse. I noticed quite quickly that one could not have an opinion different from the majority and for some strange reason, the students are political, but they are very welcoming and kind if you share similar ideologies... Read 253 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,883

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• New Orleans, LA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  75 reviews

Freshman: I've been going to this school for 12/13 years now, and I'm in the 9th grade. This school has been an amazing experience! I have had fun making friends with the girls in my grade. The best part is the traditions, such as conge (faire), may crowning, and cache cache (hide and seek), that come with being a Sacred Heart student. If you plan on attending this school, it would be an amazing choice. The teachers are amazing! The classes aren't extremely difficult (some classes are), and the teachers are great at their job (I am not speaking of all teachers).... Read 75 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 614

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• New Orleans, LA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.65 out of 5  62 reviews

Parent: Excellent school for my two girls! It is an encouraging yet rigorous learning environment that is instilling a love for learning in all students. The administration is organized and well-prepared, but always looking for feedback and willing to make changes to stay current.... Read 62 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 510

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• New Orleans, LA•

• Private School•

• 8-12

• •
  Rating 4.26 out of 5  137 reviews

Senior: Jesuit is a school that demands excellence out of its students from day one. Because of these high expectations, the work load is something that every student has to adjust to fairly quickly to avoid falling behind. What I most appreciate about attending Jesuit High School is that this school taught me more than just lessons in the classroom. I was able to learn great organizational and time management skills. I also learned how to meet new people everyday since the average class size is about 250. What I would change about Jesuit is the lack of opportunity for students to express themselves at school. A lot of schools have a uniform, this is not what I am referring to. Having to keep hair at a certain length is something that causes a feeling of control in the student body that feels unusual and does not prepare students for the real world.... Read 137 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,368

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• New Orleans, LA•

• Private School•

• 8-12

• •
  Rating 4.47 out of 5  273 reviews

Senior: Mount Carmel is such an amazing school. The environment is extremely inclusive and loving. I know that I am truly cared about at the school. I receive a wonderful education, and I feel well prepared for college. Administration makes sure we have a great mix of fun and seriousness. The teachers truly care about our well-being and actively engage the class in learning. This year is a bit different because we cannot have the usual exciting event due to COVID; still, the faculty and student council tries to make school as enjoyable and fun as possible. Overall, I truly love and enjoy receiving my education at Mount Carmel Academy!... Read 273 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,200

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Metairie, LA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  51 reviews

Senior: St. Martin's is a small, based family-oriented community. The average student teacher ratio is excellent. The academics are rigorous and challenging which prepares the students for college and the future. It has a state-of-the-art theatre program, green room, and science and technology program. They instill family involvement; all grade levels are encouraged to interact with one another along with participate in school and non-school related community service activities.... Read 51 reviews

• grade A

• Students 600

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Covington, LA•

• Private School•

• 8-12

• •
  Rating 4.57 out of 5  56 reviews

Alum: St. Paul's School is an incredible place to attend for high school. In grade school, I did alright academically, but at St. Paul's, I flourished. Every teacher is always open to talk and to help, and there are plenty of clubs to suit all interests from Eco Car to Ping Pong to Football to Chess and etc. They did an incredible job preparing me for both the AP exams that I took and for college - including all of the in-class ACT preperatory materials we were guided through. The administration put on a lot of events for us (including trying hard to do so as soon as pandemic restrictions were reduced), and the counselors were always there for us whether we needed college help, help with school, or more personal matters. They have a very strong arts department as well as a flourishing STEM department, with recently added PLTW courses adding to the experience. Above all, they're very affordable, offering tuition and lunch assistance to help those in financial need. Nothing but the best here.... Read 56 reviews

• grade A

• Students 879

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1

• Covington, LA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.27 out of 5  22 reviews

Junior: Christ Episcopal is very unique. They will work with you individually and help you understand. The teachers are very supportive and accepting. It is a great school!... Read 22 reviews

• grade A

• Students 620

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• New Orleans, LA•

• Private School•

• 8-12

• •
  Rating 4.2 out of 5  212 reviews

Sophomore: St. Mary's Dominican High School is the best school I have attended. Dominican gave me opportunities I could not receive on my own and pushed me to be the best person I could be. DHS has a comforting sisterhood environment that focuses on prayer, study, community, and service. With our fulfillment of truth, we are committed to our motto, veritas!... Read 212 reviews

• grade A

• Students 886

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• New Orleans, LA•

• Private School•

• 8-12

• •
  Rating 4.28 out of 5  169 reviews

Senior: I had a great experience at De La Salle! I loved the culture at school and the people around me, it truly felt like i belonged and that everybody fit in and had their place. No one was left out and it felt like family. I felt like the work was challenging and has prepared me well for college. Our school had people of all different cultures, races, economic backgrounds, and social standings. They had every club you could think of and every sport, and if they did not then you could make one yourself with the help from an administrator. I have always felt I had all the resources I needed and have always felt safe and felt like I could ask for help or talk to anyone if I ever needed to.... Read 169 reviews

• grade A

• Students 595

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• New Orleans, LA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.06 out of 5  106 reviews

Alum: As a recent alum, I have been catching myself thinking about my time at Ursuline Academy very frequently because of the wonderful memories I have made there. I attended Ursuline from Toddler 2 to Senior year. Now, as a college student, I feel as if I excelled in my academics, extracurricular activities, and social life because of the excellent way Ursuline prepared me for life after high school. I appreciate the sense of community Ursuline has to offer, especially the long-lasting bonds students are able to make with their teachers. The staff makes sure the school maintains a comfortable environment so students are able to learn attentively and grow at their own rate. Teachers urge students to step outside their comfort zone in order to experience new perspectives. This helped me in college because I was comfortable with putting myself out there more. Looking back on my time at Ursuline, I wish I could do it all over again and relive the amazing and life-changing moments I received.... Read 106 reviews

• grade A

• Students 588

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• New Orleans, LA•

• Private School•

• 8-12

• •
  Rating 4.32 out of 5  127 reviews

Alum: Brother Martin prepares its students exceptionally well with challenging courses and a wide assortment of extracurricular activities. The community is truly one of love, as students from every walk of life are able to achieve their personal excellence and success. It is the best in the city in numerous categories, as the faculty is completely dedicated to supporting students inside and outside of the classroom. Resources like the Formation Center, where tutoring is available throughout the day, are available at all times. The faculty goes the extra mile for all students to uphold their holistic view of a student that originated with its founders. Whatever your ambitions are in life, Brother Martin prepares you for life and college ahead while maintaining a fun, strong sense of community.... Read 127 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,206

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• New Orleans, LA•

• Private School•

• 8-12

• •
  Rating 4.42 out of 5  158 reviews

Senior: I am currently a high school senior at Cabrini. My overall high school experience has been one I will cherish forever because of everything Cabrini has given and taught me. I have grown extremely close to my class of 90 and virtually know almost all of my school's community! I am extremely grateful for the rigorous curriculum Cabrini has provided me to prepare me well for college. I am also in many clubs such as student council, ambassadors, and NHS which have helped me enhance my leadership skills. Cabrini has given me so much and I could not imagine myself going anywhere else. The teachers are always incredibly helpful when in need of extra assistance and they are always fair.... Read 158 reviews

• grade A

• Students 375

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• Jefferson Parish Public Schools, LA•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  174 reviews

Junior: Thomas Jefferson High School for Advanced Studies is a very open school. It offers amazing teachers. It is a very small school, so everybody knows everybody. The teacher and staff do a good job of making everyone feel like family. The students are smart and very kind. Thomas Jefferson is a great school while giving you a good high school experience. I am glad to be a jaguar!... Read 174 reviews

• grade A

• Students 603

• Student-teacher ratio 27:1

• St. Charles Parish Public Schools, LA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.18 out of 5  202 reviews

Alum: I loved the people and memories! My advice is to be yourself going into high school. High school can be a lot to take in but if you go in with your head held strong and a positive attitude it will be a great experience. Get involved whether that is playing a sport, playing in the band, or singing in the choir. Be yourself and find people that will help you grow. Focus on your academics and have study groups. Also, get to know your teachers. I loved my high school experience and I am excited for my future at LSU.... Read 202 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,370

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Covington, LA•

• Private School•

• 8-12

• •
  Rating 4.29 out of 5  68 reviews

Senior: I like the tight-knit community because it has allowed me to make friendships that I hope will last a lifetime. There are also amazing opportunities to take Honors, AP, and dual enrollment courses, and I feel that they have prepared me well for college!... Read 68 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 681

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Covington, LA•

• Private School•

• 8-12

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  262 reviews

Sophomore: St. Scholastica Academy is an amazing all girls school. I love being surrounded by all girls because I feel like I can be myself. We have amazing teachers that want to help you succeed in life and tons of sports and extracurricular activities to participate in. I have had a great experience there so far. There are a few things about it that I’d rather change but it is a very good school. They care about our safety there. In fact, we just got key cards and locks on every building in the beginning of this school year.... Read 262 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 540

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• Covington, LA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.17 out of 5  46 reviews

Senior: During my 5 years at Northlake, I've been in a great environment where everyone wants you to succeed. Northlake is a college preparatory school, so faculty and peers push each other to excel. Everyone encourages each other to pursue their goal, and are willing to help each other to get there. Northlake is a small school, so everyone gets along and there aren't many cliques. Because of the more petite student body, students are able to get more one-on-one time with teachers to help with subjects. It is easy to see how much the faculty cares for their students and how much the students care for their faculty. There are many extracurriculars to get involved in and the food is great; giving three different options for lunch every day, ( they also serve breakfast in the morning). If you are looker for a smaller school that has caring faculty, college readiness, and a great environment, then Northlake is the place for you!... Read 46 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 882

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• New Orleans, LA•

• Public School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.18 out of 5  62 reviews

Senior: New Orleans Center for Creative Arts (NOCCA) is a wonderful place for students from all over the New Orleans area to come and express themselves via their prefered art form. I chose Theatre Design, and I truly believe and can say with 100% certainty that I would not have gotten the training I did if I would have gone to any other school in my area. I am dedicated to this school because I live over an hour away and I still choose every morning to get up at 5:30 to come to school, knowing I could easily just go to a different school. NOCCA has given all students a place to feel safe and challenge themselves in not only their arts, but as people in general. Having to advocate for your art ischallengingg enough, but NOCCA teaches students the proper way to hold yourself and handle tough situations!... Read 62 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 241

• Student-teacher ratio 241:1

• St. Tammany Parish Public Schools, LA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  261 reviews

Sophomore: Overall, Mandeville High School is a great school, and it has so many benefits that make student’s attendance amazing, however many of the staff are very hypocritical when it comes to students, and there are many rules in place that are not even enforced. Plus, the school grounds are in awful shape it is often hard to maneuver from class to class on a rainy day with out getting your feet soaking wet from the gigantic dips in the sidewalks not to mention the huge potholes in the roads and the mice you often see around campus. For any germ obsessed people, I would recommend not attending this school as the chewed gum all over walls and seats, and the mice running around would most likely be found unbearable to these so called germ obsessed people; However if these down sides are not too much for your children, then I recommend you send them to Mandeville High School, which has a beautiful foyer (But hiding behind these frequently seen areas is true disgust), so it’s up to you!... Read 261 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 1,929

• Student-teacher ratio 20:1