2024 Best High Schools in the St. Louis Area

• St. Louis, MO•

• Private School•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 4.31 out of 5  83 reviews

Senior: John Burroughs is an excellent school and on the whole I have enjoyed my time there. The campus and facilities are beautiful and modern, and the general environment is welcoming and friendly. Classes are small (typically around fifteen students) making it easy for students to connect with their teachers personally. Classes of different difficulties are offered, but all classes are designed to prepare you for college. One of the things I love most about Burroughs is that I always feel appropriately challenged in my classes. In terms of racial diversity, I would say Burroughs does pretty well and the percentage of students of color is only improving. The one area I see Burroughs fall short is economic diversity: tuition and expenses are understandably high to support the high quality of education, but only one in four students receive financial assistance from the school, giving the school a somewhat elitist feeling. That being said, I am truly grateful for my experience at Burroughs.... Read 83 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 660

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Saint Louis, MO•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.27 out of 5  180 reviews

Junior: My experience at MICDS has been very good so far! I've had mental health struggles and they've been extremely supportive and flexible throughout that time. The curriculum is vast and interesting, it is easy to reach out to professors for support, and the college counseling program is absolutely incredible. One thing that I would mention as a negative is the intensity of the academics. While I have without a doubt benefitted from the rigor, it is important to emphasize just how rigorous the school truly is. It's fast-paced, and I didn't truly realize how intense it was until approximately sophomore year. While I am confident this is the right place for me, the rigor is very important to take into note: it can be a detriment to mental health and extremely difficult to balance the workload with sports, clubs, and a social life. Despite all this though, I do recommend this school - it has truly changed the course of my life and my education. Thank you MICDS!... Read 180 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,240

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Saint Louis, MO•

• Private School•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 4.25 out of 5  79 reviews

Parent: Firstly, it is an honor to share with you as a parent our son’s experience this past year (7th grade) at Thomas Jefferson School (TJ). Our son just completed 7th grade, the school’s earliest grade offered at TJ (7th – 12th) and what an amazing experience. Every student has the opportunity to become a leader no matter what grade they are in and contribute to the learning environment. TJ offers students to be part of academic societies, clubs, and participate in social events. Every teacher, support staff, and administration are highly invested in the growth of their students. Everyone is available, greeted with a smile, have a genuine interest in finding what will help your child grow into an amazing adult. Our son's advisor is very supportive and even available afterhours, our son quickly made friends, and I have been so surprised to see our son take initiative to complete homework and prioritize his work. If you are looking for a great school stop looking, you found it at TJ!... Read 79 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 75

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• Ladue School District, MO•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.16 out of 5  258 reviews

Senior: Ladue Horton Watkins High School is a very highly rated school that has both teachers and students alike who are motivated and wish to increase the very potential of the school itself. If you are in need of help there are always teachers present with seminars or open mornings/afternoons ready to assist. If the issue is more personal then there are counselors with whom you can easily and efficiently set up a meeting. In addition, the resources of the school itself far exceed most other public schools. There is plenty of funding to start your own clubs and activities and the technology department is responsible for making sure every student has a computer that they can bring to classes. If there was one thing that I would change it would probably be the culture of the school itself. Specifically around participation and school spirit. While there is plenty of funding, I believe more of my peers should take advantage of the resources and do/start activities they are passionate about.... Read 258 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,324

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1

• School District of Clayton, MO•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.27 out of 5  175 reviews

Senior: Overall, Clayton High School is a great place to study at. It provides students with teachers who are either highly qualified to teach or very passionate about the subjects that they teach. Throughout all four years of my high school career, most teachers that I had were compassionate, thoughtful, and smart. It is definitely a common thing to love a class just for that teacher. The demographics of the students there are on some level diverse, but may still be less than that of other schools in the nation. Though bullying, discrimination, and self-censorship do exist, most teachers and students that I have met are very responsive and sensitive to these problems and would deal with them carefully. In terms of extracurriculars, maybe due to COVID, the competitiveness and prestige of these activities have generally decreased.... Read 175 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 881

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Saint Louis, MO•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.38 out of 5  52 reviews

Works Here: The college choice experience at Whitfield is exceptional. Through a multi-year, concierge advising model, students are guided toward the collegiate experiences that will continue to challenge and support their academic and personal growth. The college counseling program introduces and develops these skills and more: self-awareness, planning, problem-solving, analysis of like entities, prioritization, organization, time management and effective communication. Our goal is to make our students' college searches as smooth and stress-free as possible. Communication is crucial; we strive to maintain balanced communication between students, parents, and counselors. Our focus is on our students—helping them learn more about themselves so they can conduct thoughtful, thorough college searches. The College Counseling team guides students through every single part of the application process, ensuring every element shines light on the exceptionality of our students.... Read 52 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 407

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Saint Louis, MO•

• Private School•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 4.6 out of 5  92 reviews

Junior: The academics are top-notch and the college advisors do a great job finding the best fit for each student. Every teacher I have had has shown me that they care about me and they have helped me get the most out of every class. The athletics really bring the students together as everyone is part of a team. Spiritually, the school also stands out as we have weekly Mass and prayer assemblies as well as several clubs dedicated to spirituality. The only complaint I would have about Priory is that the cost for the school has been steadily rising over the past years due to subpar enrollment. However, I believe that Priory has been worth every penny and I would recommend it to anyone seeking a Catholic college preparatory school.... Read 92 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 299

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• St. Louis, MO•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.62 out of 5  239 reviews

Freshman: Awesome place. This school is pretty great if you want to be challenged academically and have a chance to take it to the next level going into college If you take it easy at SLUH you will definitely get low grades, it is a generally very difficult school especially if you don’t enjoy homework. But its not too difficult, and if you work really hard you can get straight A’s and learn a ton. There are also tons of cool kids, teachers, clubs, and ways to make friends and form community. Great sports teams although hard to make the teams for big sports if you don’t play club. If you aren’t a typical athlete or don’t play football or soccer you should join the cross country team, or other unique and different sports like raquetball Cross country is an amazing sport all around even though it sounds dumb at first. It is a great way to improve yourself, WIN, and make friends Only problems with SLUH: a bit too expensive and not that diverse and a bit of entitled kids. But not much. Go to SLUH!... Read 239 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 978

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Saint Louis, MO•

• Private School•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 4.25 out of 5  60 reviews

Parent: Crossroads has been the best decision we have made regarding our daughter’s education. Our local public school wasn’t reaching the bar for us. When we first began looking and touring private schools in the area, nothing really stood out until CROSSROADS! It is not your average private school. It is a little gem in STL City. The teachers and faculty are phenomenal and truly love what they do. As a school that prioritizes education, the staff go out of their way to ensure that the students succeed. This year with the implementation of “5th day”, the curriculum and learning is even more engaging. Students get a real feel in connecting the classroom with the community. Students feel seen and heard. Diversity is so important and Crossroads has it and embraces it!... Read 60 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 115

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Saint Louis, MO•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.4 out of 5  135 reviews

Parent: My wife and I are proud parents of a 10-year-old daughter who just completed her 4th grade at Principia! We are a long-term resident of Chesterfield but only got to know about Principia recently from our wonderful neighbors whom we are so grateful for introducing and welcoming us to Principia. For us, it is more than just a school for our daughter, but it represents a community of caring families and friends. Our interaction with the teachers and staff members has been very positive because the school promotes an environment that regularly brings parents, teachers, and faculty together to celebrate our kids educational and spiritual development. Our daughter is a beautiful, smart, and engaging little girl that have made friends in and out of school. Although it is her first year, she has had numerous playdates and met wonderful and caring families. For us this is one of the best features of Principia! We love Principia’s emphasis on strong character education and academic excellence!... Read 135 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 477

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Rockwood R-VI School District, MO•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.11 out of 5  338 reviews

Alum: I loved going to Lafayette. Most of the teachers I had were great and made it easy to learn. The teachers were always there to help with anything I needed. In all four years that I was there I only had one teacher that I didn't like. They had good opportunities for college credit classes, which I took advantage of in my senior year. I loved the flexibility that I was able to have in my senior year schedule. I had completed all of my credits and I was able to have an online class and I was able to remove a class out of my schedule too. This allowed me to leave school up to and hour and a half early every single day of my senior year, which was a big help in opening up my work schedule to save up for college. Our school activities were well planned out. I enjoyed every school dance and football game with my friends. Lafayettes wide variety of classes allowed me to further develop and pursue my love for art as well.... Read 338 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,734

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• Saint Louis, MO•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.12 out of 5  161 reviews

Alum: I am a recent graduate from Visitation Academy, and I can confidently say that it was my second home! I had been there all my life, and there was no other place I would want to go to school. The amazing women in my class always showed me love and support. We grew up together, and I honestly consider all 81 of them my family. The teachers were excellent and had no problem staying late to help me understand a concept. All the teachers wanted to see every single student succeed and would take measures to ensure we exceeded our highest possibilities. Viz holds strong core values and instills them in every single student who walks in. I couldn't thank this school enough for my amazing education, lifelong friends, and for making me the woman I am today. If I could go back and do another 4 years here, I would!... Read 161 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 605

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Parkway School District, MO•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  243 reviews

Junior: I’m a junior at Parkway West High School in Ballwin, MO, and so far, it has been a great experience. The teachers at the school certainly push students to do their best. Not only that, but most of them try to help as much as they can within the course. While there are always going to be a few mishaps at each school, Parkway West does a great job at helping their students grow from every experience throughout their high school career. Even through a pandemic, the school has not stopped their pursuit of encouraging students to find their path in life. Whether it’s for high school or college, they want you to excel. The only issue I have had is not receiving enough info about college prep. However, I have used my own resources to figure this out. The school has great lunch services, fun elective courses, and a wonderful staff. Extracurriculars are great too; our sports teams are very competitive and clubs are always intriguing. Overall, Parkway West is a spectacular high school!... Read 243 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,393

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Saint Louis, MO•

• Private School•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  93 reviews

Alum: I transferred to Villa in 6th grade, right before middle school. The decision to switch to Villa is one of the best decisions I have made to this day. I found my people here, found myself, and found some of the best teachers and faculty you can find anywhere. Villa truly and deeply cares about each and every one of their students and it is so evident in even the smallest of things. Even after I have graduated, I still keep in touch with some of the faculty. The same goes for the friendships I made at Villa, to this day I am still so close with my friend group and even those not in my core group of friends as we still talk in our grade group chat on a weekly basis. Finally, Villa helped me learn and grow into who I am today. This was fostered in the multitude of opportunities to meet people such as the inclusive sports, endless clubs, and welcoming common spaces. Villa will always be my second Home!... Read 93 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 471

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Kirkwood School District, MO•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.18 out of 5  292 reviews

Senior: In freshman year everything was online or over zoom. I was excited about ceramics but never was able to go to school to use the pottery wheel because of COVID regulations. Sophomore year was during the mask mandate and social distance practices. It was also a reboot of freshman year since I had never experienced school in real time here. It was one of the worst years. We couldn't fully communicate correctly and it was uncomfortable wearing a mask for eight hours five days a week. lol. But junior year was amazing for me. I finished credits early so I had a short schedule, and was able to be in smaller classes with great teachers which was contributing to my overall experience. I had more friends, better academic understanding and more free time for outside of school activities and responsibilities. I have hope for an amazing senior year!... Read 292 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,808

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Parkway School District, MO•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  187 reviews

Senior: It's a nice school! Faculty is passionate about what they do, the school is clean (exempting the female restrooms), and there is a wide variety of classes. It's easy to enroll into AP and honors classes, and there is a lot of preparation for college. The food is less than ideal. Although it's a given that a public high school has poor food, this school takes it to another level- I can count on more than both hands how many times my food has been under cooked/raw. I've known students who have gotten sick from eating here. There's also a lack of options. You're better off bringing your own food! There's also the issue of reoccurring racist incidents. They have been happening every year for the past few years, and got recognition in 2021 when someone wrote racist messages on a wall in the boy's restroom. This incident was even put into the news. Overall, this is a good school, in a good area.... Read 187 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,216

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1

• St. Louis, MO•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.12 out of 5  75 reviews

Senior: I have enjoyed attending Chaminade. The academic program is rigorous, and the AP and Advanced college credit classes here have really helped me push myself into new academic territory. The administration and teachers are excellent, and Chaminade is superior when it comes to the fine and performing arts, especially music/band where there are numerous opportunities. The guys here are excellent! I can not imagine myself being in any other secondary institution!... Read 75 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 868

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Rockwood R-VI School District, MO•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  496 reviews

Senior: I would like to see change in the food. Its disappointing. However, as far as the faculty and education go, it is an outstanding school. Teachers are helpful and kind. The library gives a nice area for students to enjoy studying with large windows and many tables. If you ask a Librarian, you can also get a private study room. Zero hour and AC lab is also a great addition for students that need extra help. I am in AP physics and love to go to zero hour as it is helpful to have extra time with my teacher for homework and it is especially helpful before tests.... Read 496 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,277

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Belleville, IL•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.19 out of 5  70 reviews

Parent: I have 2 daughters at Governor French Academy (ages 8 & 5). Both girls were enrolled at age 4, so we've been a part of the school for several years now. I can honestly say that we absolutely love & appreciate the faculty & curriculum at GFA! The teachers are focused on providing the best education possible & I can see the progress in my children's learning & progress. I highly recommend this school!... Read 70 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 104

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• St. Louis, MO•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.27 out of 5  162 reviews

Sophomore: I am currently a sophomore at St. Joe, and I love it. I am very excited for next year and I look forward to many classes, like anatomy and English. I love the science program here and our science labs and facilities are brand new and so much fun to use. St. Joe has made it very easy to find opportunities to get involvement in almost any field to add to your resume for college, and they have many connections to nearby hospital programs and fun competitions to get academic recognition. I learned about the St. Louis Brain Bee, a bee for neuroscience held by Washington University, my freshman year, and it has developed a love for neuroscience and psychology. I would like to pursue neuroscience and biology in college. There are many bright students who go here, as well as incredible athletes. We have a ton of school pride and spirit when it comes to our sports, and we have countless awards recognizing the athletics program and staff.... Read 162 reviews

• grade A

• Students 505

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• St. Louis , MO•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.32 out of 5  250 reviews

Senior: Nerinx Hall high school is a place that undoubtedly prepares its students to support themselves in learning, in service, and in life. It encourages independence while always offering support for those who struggle, and the respect the faculty has for the student body is unmatched. This commitment to fostering independence can sometimes cause disorganization and conflict, but issues are resolved respectfully and in communication with everyone affected. Quality of education is fantastic and teachers model compassion, enthusiasm, and lifetimes of learning.... Read 250 reviews

• grade A

• Students 564

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Saint Louis Public Schools, MO•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  122 reviews

Senior: I love metro! Metro breeds talent and work ethic from the second you walk into the building. Having a small class size can be frustrating at times but the teachers and administration are really there for you. Of my three years at Metro, I could definitely say that I've had a positive experience and have made long lasting memories.... Read 122 reviews

• grade A

• Students 373

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Town & Country, MO•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.56 out of 5  116 reviews

Alum: My experience at Christian Brothers College High School was unforgettable experience. I've met phenomenal people that I am still in touch with today. The community is very supportive, and I am happy to be a cadet!... Read 116 reviews

• grade A

• Students 860

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• Saint Louis, MO•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.39 out of 5  201 reviews

Alum: I absolutely LOVED my four years at Cor Jesu! I’ve made my lifelong friends here and was surrounded by the most caring and supportive community. There was not a single teacher or staff member who didn’t genuinely care about my well being and my success in and outside the classroom. From the first time i stepped on campus, it was obvious that everyone genuinely loves being a part of this amazing community! Whether being in the classroom, trying new clubs, meeting new friends, or First Fridays, i have loved every part of being a Cor Jesu Charger!... Read 201 reviews

• grade A

• Students 560

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Chesterfield, MO•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.07 out of 5  14 reviews

Senior: The Fulton School offers personal Montessori teaching up to 6th grade and then college preparatory through high school. With the small environment, students are able to go at their own pace and receive any additional help or challenges that they need. The tight nite community offers a safe and open environment that many students have thrived in after attending a public school and not enjoying it.... Read 14 reviews

• grade A

• Students 161

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1