2023 Best Public High Schools for STEM in Suffolk County

• Cold Spring Harbor Central School District, NY•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 4.19 out of 5  43 reviews

Senior: Cold Spring Harbor High school has helped define who I am in more ways than just me education. Cold Spring Harbor High School for me is where I learned how to learn, where I learned who I was as a person, and where I learned how to make the friends that have helped me further become a better person. Unlike other schools Cold Spring Harbor's commitment to excellency and uniquely small neighborhood feel helps to establish a learning community within it. This environment than helps individuals thrive in the learning process of uncovering the challenging Honors and AP courses to which the school, and its students strive to achieve new heights within it. This two factors then helped me become who I am today. I can surely say that my experience with Cold Spring Harbor High School truly has been excellent.... Read 43 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 794

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• Half Hollow Hills Central School District, NY•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.92 out of 5  472 reviews

Senior: Since will have only spent my senior year at Half Hollow Hills High School East, I do not have much material to base my thoughts around. However, during my short time here, I can safely state that the academic aspect of the school is superb. The teaching staff is effective overall, with a wide variety of electives being available as well. As for the social aspect, it can be easy for one to feel lost due to the large student body, and significant ethnic population differences.... Read 472 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,609

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• Three Village Central School District, NY•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  487 reviews

Senior: I am immensely grateful for the diverse experiences that are available at Ward Melville, ranging from an amazing Science Olympiad team to the incredibly skilled Chamber Orchestra or the fantastic Art department with a plethora or drawing, painting, graphic design, ceramics, and sculpture classes available to students. However, my one major complaint about the school has more to do with the atmosphere rather than the school itself -- the school has an immensely competitive nature that can feel isolating to students, especially for first-generation students like myself who come from a very different background than the majority of students at Ward Melville. As such, I would love to see more discussions in the future about privilege and changing the school atmosphere surrounding education.... Read 487 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,570

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• Half Hollow Hills Central School District, NY•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  311 reviews

Senior: I liked the overall interior of the school and the majority of my teachers were very nice and supportive! I felt like I could go to them if I needed help with something. There was also little to no bullying among students, which is pretty rare in schools. The school is a little difficult to navigate because a lot of hallways look exactly the same, but once you get the hang of it it’s not so bad. If I disliked any teachers, it was a personal dislike. I would advise against taking the Media Arts course though, since it is extremely outdated and barely teaches you any skills you can use (especially if you were already studying film, art, and animation).... Read 311 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,116

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Smithtown Central School District, NY•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  352 reviews

Senior: The teachers, counselors, administrators, and staff members have been extremely helpful in resolving any issue that may come up. They whole-heartedly work with us to assist us with any problematic situation that may arise, keeping safety at the forefront of their priorities. They exhibit a sincere concern for our well-being, in all aspects, physically, emotionally, as we as academically. The school offers a lot of AP and honors courses, as well as extracurricular activities and sports. This starts from 8th grade, where they offer an "advanced" track by taking 9th grade Algebra. They also offer PLTW (Project Lead The Way) for students who do not wish to take the advanced track. This latter option still offers fun and exciting ways to experience, partake in, and learn STEM courses and activities. The district is a large district with many schools and very different needs, so it is more challenging to accomplish this, but they do their best to help students be the best they can be.... Read 352 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,415

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• Port Jefferson Union Free School District, NY•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.44 out of 5  100 reviews

Parent: Earl L. Vandermeulen is an amazing high school for Academics. The teachers and staff help each student to reach their full potential in all areas of school. The teachers are very good at teaching and supporting the students and make themselves available. Many of the students participate in sports, clubs and we have one of the best Music/Art programs in our county. The school wants to prepare the students for college and master the skills to succeed. The school culture is like one family helping each other for the kids to do well. The electives in this school are very good including Science, Tech. and Math. In a small school the class sizes are low and the attention each child gets helps them learn in an environment that supports them. The school is safe and food is good. Its a great school for any student to be happy and learn and grow.... Read 100 reviews

• grade A

• Students 353

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Sayville Union Free School District, NY•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.92 out of 5  105 reviews

Senior: Sayville High School is a good school and a lot of my teachers were really great people. They definitely cared about me personally and were kind and inviting. The quality of education is great too. However, it’s extremely cliquey which makes it hard to make friends if you’re not a clique person. I don’t think the staff really has any interest in trying to fix that either. Sayville’s also a huge football school, which can get a little annoying at times. Definitely the biggest problem though is how people treat others that are even the slightest bit different from them. If you’re not 100% into the clique and football life, then you’re definitely going to struggle socially. But a lot of my teachers have been incredible with me and many other students, so it’s something to definitely be grateful for.... Read 105 reviews

• grade A

• Students 968

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Smithtown Central School District, NY•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  242 reviews

Sophomore: My overall experience with Smithtown High School East has been educational and enjoyable. Smithtown High School East not only has various choices in the courses that individuals can take such as Advanced Placement and Honors classes, it has multiple music, sports, and other extra-curriculars to make the high school experience be much more enjoyable. In addition, my high school has five foreign language options (French, German, Italian, Spanish, and American Sign Language) to the student's advantage. Finally, Smithtown High School East is ranked sixth in Suffolk County, New York to show the prime education the students are receiving compared to the school's neighboring competitors.... Read 242 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,507

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Northport-East Northport Union Free School District, NY•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  231 reviews

Senior: Coming from the South Bronx to a small town on the north shore of Long Island was a big move. I came to this town into this high school not knowing anyone. When I got here it felt like a maze. It’s so big, there’s people willing to help you everywhere you go. You build relationships with the teachers and they’re always there when you need them. I’ve even made great relationships with teachers I never even got to have myself! Unfortunately, there isn’t much diversity compared to my school in the Bronx, but there is so much opportunity for you to excel. The electives, clubs and sports you can be apart of are out of this world. They give so many options for the students to find what they really want to do. My experience in this high school has been nothing but positive. It was definitely worth the move. The opportunities and experiences that I’ve gained are all thanks to this school!... Read 231 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,764

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• Mount Sinai School District, NY•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  134 reviews

Sophomore: Mount Sinai is a good school, even with its flaws. Most of the teachers care about the kids and try to engage their students in class. The science department could use some work, but it’s okay nonetheless. The school offers a variety of AP courses which are very helpful and interesting. The athletics department is incredible, and there are also a myriad of clubs to choose from. I would like improvements in the school lunches and more funding to go towards things that the students actually want. Overall, I would say my experience has been enjoyable at Mount Sinai so far.... Read 134 reviews

• grade A

• Students 760

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Harborfields Central School District, NY•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.14 out of 5  169 reviews

Freshman: The Harborfields High School has a great environment, from a great education to good teachers, that takes their students as priorities to lead them to success in high school. The good things about our school are the clubs, and sports team. The school has several negative aspects, such as a lack of quality food, a lack of diversity, and a low budget drama club. However, the club is improving. But I am very happy to be a part of this school and can't wait to spend it with my best friends.... Read 169 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 994

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Hauppauge Union Free School District, NY•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  216 reviews

Alum: Hauppauge High School was a wonderful experience for me. I feel blessed that I was able to grow up in a town with such a great school district. They offered AP classes, College Classes through Syracuse and The International Baccalaureate Program. They encourage their students to receive the highest education and allow for a fantastic preparation for college. The music and arts programs and the athletics are a plus for this school. The faculty is great and they are continuing to work on facilities for students. The golf room could use some improvements, but the pool is a huge plus.... Read 216 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,170

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Elwood Union Free School District, NY•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  122 reviews

Junior: JGHS is a wonderful school! Our high school staff create a community at which developing students' leadership abilities are fostered. Staff give students so many opportunities to work together as well and also educate us to know we are part of so many communities, local and global. JGHS is a place of learning and development that values each student as a critical member.... Read 122 reviews

• grade A

• Students 700

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Southampton Union Free School District, NY•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  129 reviews

Senior: Everyone is great It is a nice place, it practices many sports, the counselors are very helpful and teachers are very kind and nice. Most of the students are nice, all events are fun and a great experience for the community. I came from Ecuador 1 year ago and everyone has helped me in different ways, and now I can understand, speak, writw and read in english!, it has been a great experience so far.... Read 129 reviews

• grade A

• Students 597

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Commack Union Free School District, NY•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  823 reviews

Senior: Being a student at Commack High School, I have seen and heard many conversations, stories, lessons, and interactions that associate with happy and not so happy memories. High School is supposed to be some of the greatest years of your life and I can confidently agree with that. Over the years, I was able to find my interests and see establish my strengths and weaknesses. The quality of my education is incomparable and it was easy to initiate positive relationships with the teachers and other students. We are a very school-spirited school and always go above and beyond to make everyone feel comfortable and included. Unfortunately, due to Covid-19 my high school years were choppy but it is wonderful that for my final year we have returned to normalcy.... Read 823 reviews

• grade A

• Students 2,058

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Bayport-Blue Point Union Free School District, NY•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  101 reviews

Junior: The classes offered at Bayport Blue Point High School are excellent for all students. Whether you want to challenge yourself with an AP class or need some help with a modified class, the option is yours. Most of the teachers are fantastic, and provide their students with a great education while forming bonds with them. BBP High School also offers many clubs, such as debate club and science Olympiad, and students can request to start their own club. The school also takes pride in its sports, with many options and a very high participation rate among students. The science and math departments offer many accelerated or modified classes to accommodate the students, and these classes are very informative. Perhaps the best department in Bayport Blue Point High School is the art and music department. There are numerous classes, orchestras, classes, AP music theory, ceramics, and many more. Several music extracurriculars are offered, including chamber orchestra, the musical, and jazz choir.... Read 101 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 721

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Huntington Union Free School District, NY•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.83 out of 5  237 reviews

Senior: I feel privileged to have grown up in the Huntington Union Free School District and Huntington High School has been instrumental in shaping who I am as a person. The diversity of the student body has opened my eyes to new perspectives and fostered an environment rich with collaboration. The school's administration could not have been more considerate and accommodating. The vast opportunities in music and the arts (marching band, chamber choir, orchestra, drama club) combined with a myriad of STEM exposure (namely the robotics team, science olympiad, etc.) along with humanities programs (National History, School Newspaper) ensure that any student can pursue their passions. AP courses have prepared me for college curriculum. The school's security team succeeds in providing a safe and welcoming educational environment. I love Huntington; Go Blue Devils!... Read 237 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,451

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• East Hampton Union Free School District, NY•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  110 reviews

Junior: I really loved my time at East Hampton High School. The teachers were always supportive inside and outside of the classroom. I was always encouraged to join new extracurriculars and meet new people. I particularly loved the music and science departments.... Read 110 reviews

• grade A

• Students 961

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• Mattituck-Cutchogue Union Free School District, NY•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  124 reviews

Senior: Mattituck is a great school filled with amazing staff and students. My time spent here is only filled with good memories and time not wasted. The academic program at Mattituck is amazing and helps prepare all students for their future whether they are going off to college or into the work force. This high school has amazing school spirit and a community like no other. Growing up in such a small town, you are able to stay close with all your friends and have a tight community. On the other hand, Mattituck lacks in diversity as well as their arts programs. Although the school lacks in these areas, they focus the majority of their time and money on sports as well as academics creating a diverse environment for all.... Read 124 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 592

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• South Huntington Union Free School District, NY•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.99 out of 5  276 reviews

Alum: Walt Whitman is a unique experience. While I was a student, I had some very fond memories of the crazy things we did in class. The teachers I had were excellent. They were there to help us and support us when needed. Most teachers were approachable and understanding of life problems. The sports teams have seen improvement in the last complete of years, but that is probably attributed more towards the talents of the students. However, while I was a student, I believed there to be always clear favoritism towards the more well-known sports. Club-wise, there was always a diverse array of things to get involved in and if you couldn't find something, the process of creating a club was not that difficult.... Read 276 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,985

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• Kings Park Central School District, NY•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.55 out of 5  168 reviews

Senior: I’m extremely happy to leave this place but 100% the bonds I have made with staff members is what I will miss the most. Most teachers are very willing to help students. That said, many of them are not great at engaging the students in the subject and teaching in general. I enjoy the block scheduling system because you don’t have all your classes every day so you get more time to work on things and get help if you need it. They are ever strict with kids walking around the hallway at all times during the day even if you have a pass. The kids here aren’t super kind and good hearted for the most part, very clique-y and judge-y. Overall it wasn’t a terrible experience and I will miss the people and staff I have made connections with throughout my 4 years here but I would not recommend, there are definitely better schools on the island.... Read 168 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 966

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• Sachem Central School District, NY•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.83 out of 5  550 reviews

Alum: Sachem High School East is an excellent institution that prioritizes the academic success and overall well-being of its students. The teachers at Sachem High School East were incredibly attentive and invested in their students' success. They took the time to get to know each of us individually and tailored their instruction to our unique learning styles. This made for a very supportive and nurturing learning environment that encouraged academic growth. The education I received at Sachem High School East was top-notch. The curriculum was challenging and engaging, and I always felt that I was being pushed to reach my full potential. The school offered a wide range of advanced placement courses and extracurricular activities, which helped to prepare me for college and beyond. Additionally, the school's emphasis on community service and volunteer work instilled in me a sense of responsibility and empathy that I still carry with me today.... Read 550 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 2,133

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Westhampton Beach Union Free School District, NY•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  206 reviews

Senior: As a senior at WHBHS, I definitely cannot say I had a bad high school experience. My teachers engaged with the class in almost all my classes and made learning easy and fun. The security guards are guaranteed to brighten your day, and administration/guidance has been extremely helpful to me and my family. I was a cheerleader for the football team, however our school offers really any sport you might desire to participate in. Coaches are great and help student athletes reach academic and athletic goals. It is extremely easy to make friends and there are tons of things to do around whether you like to party and go out or stay in and do more quiet activities. Mostly white, but there is slight diversity amongst students. Great school.... Read 206 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,007

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• West Islip Union Free School District, NY•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  297 reviews

Senior: The teachers at West Islip Senior High School are extremely qualified and very talented. I have never had an issue with teachers not being able to convey course material because every teacher I've had explained the content in an understandable, engaging manner. Not to mention, West Islip Senior High School's administration ensures that the school functions in an efficient and organized manner. Also, West Islip Senior High School offers a variety of inclusive extracurricular activities, such as honor societies, clubs that extend their outreach into the global community, and creative clubs... there really is something for everyone! I have no complaints about West Islip Senior High School, and my experience attending this school has thus far been very positive and immersive.... Read 297 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 1,326

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Sag Harbor Union Free School District, NY•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 3.5 out of 5  54 reviews

Senior: I loved my experience at Pierson High School. It's a great small school with a feel of a private school . Lot's of individual attention. Fantastic teachers and a sense of community. There is something for everyone. I really enjoyed being involved in the theatre department. I did all of the school plays. The school also is very big on sports and community events. I appreciated the small class sizes, it provided for a lot of individual guidance for the students.... Read 54 reviews

• grade B+

• Students 529

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1