2018 Best Public High Schools in America

Best Schools

23,793 results

Walter Payton College Prep
Chicago Public Schools, IL
9-12
305
1 Best Public High Schools in America
Freshman: I love the relaxed yet intense learning experience at Payton. Sports and clubs at Payton were all very welcoming to me as a freshman. There are so many ways to get involved and meet new people after school at Payton with sport events, clubs, dances, international night, performances, and more. With the Pal system at Payton where chosen juniors and seniors are Pals to groups of freshmen made it very easy to to get fully immersed in the Payton culture and traditions and get any answers to academic, social, or emotional questions I had as a freshman. Payton has wonderful teachers that not only teach but learn from their students to make their class a better experience for everyone. One way to better Payton would be to have an environment that dosen't put so much pressure on academic excellence and getting certain scores or grades because it often leaves students stressed and overworked. Glad I picked Payton!
Read 305 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
887 Students
17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Northside College Preparatory High School
Chicago Public Schools, IL
9-12
500
2 Best Public High Schools in America
Alum: Northside College Prep has one of the most rigorous academic curricula in the nation; as it constantly places amongst the top 25 high schools. The social structure within the school's student body and staff is very liberal/left-winged, where almost everyone is accepting of each other.

Despite this, there is an extreme stigma on the grades acquired by students' peers, where if you don't have anything higher than an A- in a class, you're made an outcast; this creates an atmosphere which at times can be very hostile and rejecting of others. This example of grade-based stigmatization is further seen amongst the administration of the school, no one will help you unless you have at least a 3.8 GPA, this has led to students fending for themselves academically as well as psychologically.

The school's teachers, however, are phenomenal and 9/10 of them deserve the highest regards in terms of providing my peers and I with the support we needed at tough times and for making learning fun!
Read 500 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
1,056 Students
18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Adlai E. Stevenson High School
Public School
Lincolnshire, IL
9-12
1,008
3 Best Public High Schools in America
Senior: Adlai E. Stevenson High School is unlike any other. What sets it apart is the sheer amount of opportunities and the great academics. Academia is the core of this school. The students want to learn and better themselves as intellectuals, and the teachers do everything in their power to allow the students to achieve this goal. Teachers are very flexible, but have a sturdy curriculum intended to push students to the next level. Also, the clubs at Stevenson make it possible to become involved in any part of the community that a student wants to be part of. Because there are over 100 clubs offered at this school, every student can find their own role within the school. It's so great to be a part of such an accepting yet academically demanding institution!
Read 1,008 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
3,932 Students
15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology
Fairfax County Public Schools, VA
9-12
442
4 Best Public High Schools in America
Senior: TJ has many opportunities to get ahead - but only for those interested in science and technology. The student environment and abundant research labs appeal to those interested in studying engineering, biology, chemistry, and physics but don't offer anything for those who enjoy the humanities.

Due to the high level of rigor each class entails, the students are often under high stress. Sometimes, this pressure may lead to a cutthroat environment. However, in my experience, I've only found individuals willing to help.

The only issue I find with this school is the new administration. Many freedoms that we had when I entered this school no longer exist. The school used to allow us to eat anywhere during lunch, go anywhere during 8th period, and leave to use the restroom whenever we'd like. After Dr. Glazer left and in the years before, the administration has become more strict and has restricted the majority of these freedoms.
Read 442 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
1,823 Students
18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy
Public School
Aurora, IL
10-12
228
5 Best Public High Schools in America
Senior: Wonderful experience! I loved going to IMSA for the past three years. Although the academics are very challenging, and many late nights will be spent studying, the teachers care about the students and want to see them grow and succeed. The opportunities here are endless, including a wonderful SIR (Student Inquiry Research) program which allows the students to spend their Wednesdays researching. The school has also had many new renovations, including new science labs, study areas, and much more. The school is also so diverse, and students are encouraged to share their opinions and life stories. What a wonderful place to study!
Read 228 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
649 Students
12:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Whitney M. Young Magnet High School
Chicago Public Schools, IL
7-12
928
6 Best Public High Schools in America
Freshman: It's decent! The teachers can be hit or miss, but overall I think that they tend to be good, and that they also tend to care a lot about their jobs and work.
Our sports teams are great, but they tend to be seen as more important than similarly high-preforming preforming & visual arts groups, which is a drag.
-People at this school care a lot about success
-Safe in general, but non existent security
-Administration cares a lot, but are quick to defend themselves when they need to apologize for certain things.
Read 928 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
2,153 Students
19:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Stuyvesant High School
New York City Geographic District No. 2, NY
9-12
866
7 Best Public High Schools in America
Senior: The diversity in its student body. I feel that ever since I've stepped into the doors of Stuyvesant High School that I've changed so much as a person. It's an environment filled with so many amazing people, both students and teachers that I've considered my second family. It's been a phenomenal four years for me here, and I honestly cannot imagine my life anywhere else. As a freshman, I practically knew no one as the five other classmates that came to this school with me, I rarely shared any classes with them. But I met this person in my Freshman Composition class, and she introduced me to her group of friends in the lunchroom, and the rest of it is history as I've made so many more friends, met so many wonderful people. I wouldn't replace this life with anything ever. Sure, there were some downs in my experience, but a lot of it was positive, both academically and socially!
Read 866 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
3,328 Students
23:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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The Mississippi School for Mathematics and Science
Public School
Columbus, MS
11-12
103
8 Best Public High Schools in America
Senior: The faculty is brilliant, which shows in our test scores. However, some of the science teachers are researchers at heart and can be difficult to follow for lots of students. The mathematics instruction is top of the line, and the school does a good job of establishing a solid foundation on which to build upon. English is also very good depending on the teacher. Definitely the best high school in Mississippi. Most problems stem from a lack of funding--hopefully that will change in the future!
Read 103 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
245 Students
11:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Staten Island Technical High School
New York City Geographic District No. 31, NY
9-12
563
9 Best Public High Schools in America
Junior: Staten Island Tech prepares students very well for college, and also makes sure to update students about opportunities (scholarships, contests, internships, etc.) frequently. SIT is also a fairly competitive school, though like all schools, there are high and low achievers. All the teachers are nice and genuinely want to help the students; they make you feel comfortable. The workload isn’t heavy if you have good time management, and more often than not, I find myself with a fair amount of time for myself. School facilities like the library are useful, and the guidance counselors are all friendly and open.
I rated SIT four and not five stars because of the lack of languages taught here. The only available language is Russian, which is disappointing for many students. In comparison to other schools where various languages are offered, SIT is extremely limited; the only compensation they have is taking an online course for a different language during senior year.
Read 563 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
1,278 Students
22:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Gwinnett School of Mathematics, Science & Technology
Gwinnett County Public Schools, GA
9-12
364
10 Best Public High Schools in America
Senior: The school has top of the line facilities. Each student is issued a laptop with tons of software including adobe, Microsoft, autodesk, and more. Every classroom has smart boards and projectors. The school is well kept and clean. The school offers many AP classes and an internship program. The school offers many electives, so every student can take classes that they are interested in. The rigor of the school makes GSMST students the most college ready. The teachers are well qualified and trained. While there are no official sports, the school makes up for it with the intermurals club and other extracurriculars. From the gay-straight alliance, to science Olympiad, to Recycling club, there is something for everybody. The food is standard, but there are vending machines. The administration is receptive to the needs of parents and students and strive to make the school as great as possible. Overall, GSMST is a wonderful school that has something for everybody who is willing to work hard.
Read 364 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
966 Students
17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Bergen County Academies
Public School
Hackensack, NJ
9-12
420
11 Best Public High Schools in America
Sophomore: Bergen County Academies is a school that will definitely prepare you for life. This idea of an institution where students are focused on their education builds an atmosphere that is upbuilding and inspirational for all. After the competitive application, the number of resources and opportunities are endless for anyone. The clubs, projects, and electives distinguish BCA by offering courses that fit with all interests. In addition, the free time in between classes makes this school seem more manageable and convenient. Also, the sports here are incredible but require a lot of commitment. In reality, however, BCA is overwhelming as the rigorous classes, successful and intelligent teachers, and high standards placed upon the students make life seem impossible to conquer. However, I think BCA puts this stress on us, the students, in order for us to prepare for real life. This means that the complexity of this school makes our future seem brighter, more accessible, and approachable.
Read 420 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
1,059 Students
12:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Liberal Arts & Science Academy
Austin Independent School District, TX
9-12
375
12 Best Public High Schools in America
Junior: I loved coming to the Liberal arts and Science Academy (LASA)! The academics at the school are both rigorous and fun, and the teachers are the best I could possibly ask for. The only downside is a lack of monetary resources, in some cases, because LASA is magnet school in a poor school district. However, the incredibly string PTA helps get money as much as possible and supports the school fantastically.
Read 375 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
1,016 Students
16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Bronx High School of Science
New York City Geographic District No. 10, NY
9-12
757
13 Best Public High Schools in America
Senior: Bronx Science has given me opportunities I never would have had if I went to another school. That being said, it is very easy to get crushed in the ridiculous amount of pressure the school puts you through. I would say that it was easy for me to get help from the guidance department though, and that the school does offer many services to students who are struggling.

Teachers generally teach for the tests, but once you get to higher level classes you can truly explore your passions and it becomes more about learning for the sake of learning (note: take Post-AP Chem if you can! It's a 10/10) It's honestly hard to fail a class because there are so many ways for you to improve. The teachers hold Small Group Instruction at least once a week (you don't even have to go to your teacher for help, if that's an issue. Ask other teachers as well) and NHS members tutor in the library. The only way I could imagine a student doing badly is if they chose not to be proactive about their learning.
Read 757 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
3,011 Students
23:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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BASIS Scottsdale
Public School
Scottsdale, AZ
5-12
64
14 Best Public High Schools in America
Alum: BASIS has succeeded in fostering a culture of competition and high achievement without sacrificing a sense of camaraderie and genuine concern for students' wellbeing, mostly thanks to the closeness between teachers and students. I hope to see a more diverse student body in the future, as well as greater investment in the school from the owners, especially given its success in rankings and standardized testing!
Read 64 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
739 Students
12:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Charter School of Wilmington
Public School
Wilmington, DE
9-12
240
15 Best Public High Schools in America
Alum: I loved the Charter School of Wilmington. CSW prepared me well for University of Delaware as an undergraduate but I wish better faculty was provided. For example, the Science and Social Sciences dept are great but the Math dept is not. Overall, I love Charter and miss it a lot!
Read 240 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
972 Students
20:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Bergen County Technical High School - Teterboro
Public School
Teterboro, NJ
9-12
167
16 Best Public High Schools in America
Sophomore: I am currently attending Bergen County Technical High School in Teterboro. Overall, I enjoy going here! However, when it comes to academics, this school is very challenging. The change from 8th grade to a freshman at BT was insane! The workload was very different from my district town's. I would say that this is also a very stress-inducing school, thus why I am putting down four stars.
Read 167 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
658 Students
10:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Indiana Academy for Science, Mathematics & Humanities
Public School
Muncie, IN
11-12
278
17 Best Public High Schools in America
Senior: The Indiana Academy for Science, Mathematics, and Humanities has amazing teachers. As a student, I can meet with them during their office hours when I am not in class. The academy has classes set up like college, allowing for time to meet with these teachers. A majority of the classes are college level and it can be challenging as a high school student to handle. However, the academic and personal growth gained from this experience is worth it. I would like to see more eating options than just DS on the weekdays and Tally on the weekends. (the atrium being open on friday night doesn't count) Eating the same food all the time is not good or healthy. On the weekends at Tally, the salad bar is too expensive and constantly eating Taco Bell and french fries makes me feel sick.
Read 278 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
315 Students
10:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Henry M. Gunn High School
Palo Alto Unified School District, CA
9-12
251
18 Best Public High Schools in America
Alum: I miss registering for and attending classes at Gunn. Registration was so stress-free (especially with the Jacoubowsky's assistance). Classes were engaging--almost every teacher was enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and willing to learn if they were new to a subject. Just remembering them brings a smile to my face. They were so quirky!

There were some horrible teachers. If they were better, this school would be excellent. One was outwardly dismissive of certain political views. One never returned assignments and was rumored to pick course grades out of hat--she got fired. One admitted she was crushing our dreams by giving low grades. One would not post course material online. One gave only one lecture.

Many of my peers made up a group of the most inclusive, intelligent, and accomplished individuals I know. The administration should listen to students more. These students are experts about their own mental health and their personal lives and concerns.
Read 251 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
1,918 Students
20:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Canyon Crest Academy
San Dieguito Union High School District, CA
9-12
467
19 Best Public High Schools in America
Senior: Canyon Crest Academy has a student body like no other. We've got the feel of a liberal arts academy, but in reality, we're just another public school. Just recently, we've outgrown our neighbor Torrey Pines in student population, which, if you're familiar with the area, is pretty impressive. CCA's arts program is amazing, and we offer classes from drawing and design to digital composition to rock band to improv! Not to mention that the sports programs are quickly gaining a winning reputation. I gave it 4 stars because the academics are intense and stressful if you sign up for too many APs. Since we're on a 4x4 system, it simulates the college experience a little better. The class schedule never changes during the semester, allowing for more learning to get packed in during classes. You learn faster, but you definitely have to be willing to keep up with the workload. Other than that, our students are super friendly and weird (we want to keep it that way).
Read 467 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
2,255 Students
26:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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New Trier Township High School
New Trier Township High School District No. 203, IL
9-12
459
20 Best Public High Schools in America
Senior: I am involved in the IGSS program, which is a newer program. Basically it is a school within a school. It encompasses English, Environmental Science, and History. The method of teaching is very organic. You are taught to think for yourself - there is no wrong answer! The teachers encourage creativity, thinking outside the box, and collaborative learning.
Read 459 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
4,057 Students
11:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Union County Magnet High School
Public School
Scotch Plains, NJ
9-12
113
21 Best Public High Schools in America
Senior: Union County Magnet High School is a diverse but tight-knit community of brilliant faculty and students. Class sizes are small, and you really get to know everyone you meet - you'll quickly see that the students are friendly, motivated, and enthusiastic. The clubs and activities they lead, especially the STEM-related ones like Robotics and Science Olympiad, are a lot of fun - and of course great learning experiences! The school offers so much support for students, whether through funding, resources (like the brand new makerspace and on-campus fitness centers), or fantastic guidance counselors.
Read 113 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
298 Students
13:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Massachusetts Academy of Math & Science
Public School
Worcester, MA
11-12
57
22 Best Public High Schools in America
Alum: Phenomenal teachers (with 1 exception) and a very homey and personalized experience. Classes are small, the teachers are knowledgeable and flexible, and the students are mostly interesting and motivated. The activities are well run. I gained a lot from this school and owe them a ton (particularly Mr. Regele).
Read 57 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
98 Students
15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Maggie Walker Governor's School
Public School
Richmond, VA
9-12
42
23 Best Public High Schools in America
Sophomore: I remember when I applied to Maggie Walker. I was excited about the opportunities, but I was nervous about the testing and attending a different school. Thank goodness I got in and decided to go! The students are friendly and accepting, the teachers try to work with each student to create the best environment for learning, and the courses are challenging and increase cultural awareness.
One of the best parts of the school is the environment of trust and the amount of freedom and independence students have because of the honor code. Also, all of the 75+ clubs at the school are run by students. While our school is well known for its academics, we also have a superb athletic program.
There are many more great things that I could say about Maggie Walker. Nonetheless the school still has room for improvement. Such as creating a more culturally diverse environment and eliminating the belief that only AP courses make students successful.
Read 42 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
746 Students
15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Hinsdale Central High School
Hinsdale Township High School District No. 86, IL
9-12
297
24 Best Public High Schools in America
Sophomore: Hinsdale Central High School is a great school! While the academics are demanding, the teachers are amazing and are always willing to work before/after school with students who need help. While the school does have a "white preppy" vibe, it is a great mix of people who are interested in almost anything you can think of. Finding at least one person who has similar interests is not difficult and finding friends among this friendly group of people. The amount of honors and AP classes is amazing, along with the huge assortment of clubs. Overall, the school is a great place for every type of student!
Read 297 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
2,802 Students
16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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High Technology High School
Public School
Lincroft, NJ
9-12
75
25 Best Public High Schools in America
Parent: There are a lot of excellent teachers who really care about the kids. There are also lots of opportunities that other school districts may not even be aware of. My son has competed in Technology Student Association, which he has won on the state level and went on to compete in the national tournament. He has also competed in several hack-a-thons, which are really rewarding experiences. He entered into a math competition at Princeton with classmates, placing pretty high for their first time. All freshman enter into a state-wide science fair, his team having won a prize for their submission. The teachers and fellow classmates are very supportive and encouraging, it is a wonderful place to go to school.
Read 75 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
295 Students
14:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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1 of 952

Walter Payton College Prep

Northside College Preparatory High School

Adlai E. Stevenson High School

Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology

Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy

Whitney M. Young Magnet High School

Stuyvesant High School

The Mississippi School for Mathematics and Science

Staten Island Technical High School

Gwinnett School of Mathematics, Science & Technology

Bergen County Academies

Liberal Arts & Science Academy

Bronx High School of Science

BASIS Scottsdale

Charter School of Wilmington

Bergen County Technical High School - Teterboro

Indiana Academy for Science, Mathematics & Humanities

Henry M. Gunn High School

Canyon Crest Academy

New Trier Township High School

Union County Magnet High School

Massachusetts Academy of Math & Science

Maggie Walker Governor's School

Hinsdale Central High School

High Technology High School