2020 Best Public High Schools in America

Best Schools

24,464 results

Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology
Fairfax County Public Schools, VA
9-12
477 reviews
#1 Best Public High Schools in America
Senior: In terms of academics, I liked being challenged, going more in depth on some topics, and the idea of a more project-based environment (even when some of the projects weren't organized well by the teachers). There are so many opportunities available for students - the number of clubs is comparable to some colleges. The community I found was wonderfully supportive, most likely because we were all more arts-oriented. I know that there are always the show-offs and the jerks and they were definitely present, but I could avoid them. It's always a plus not having the bathrooms smell like drugs! However, the school is pretty notorious for being a breeding ground for mental health problems.
Read 477 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
1,789 Students
17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy
Public School
Aurora, IL
10-12
264 reviews
#2 Best Public High Schools in America
Senior: I think that, overall, the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy is a great school. The teachers I have had are super nice and always supportive, and are willing to help outside of the classroom. The curriculum is challenging and there are many fun student-run events! I love the opportunities that are offered here and I think that the school has really helped me grow as a person with all the hard work we have to do and also the mandatory activities outside of the classroom.
Read 264 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
647 Students
12:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Walter Payton College Prep
Chicago Public Schools, IL
9-12
340 reviews
#3 Best Public High Schools in America
Junior: Walter Payton College Prep is an amazing Liberal Arts school from which students leave ready to tackle the challenges of today. Here, you can play the trombone in front of hundreds of students. Here, you can swing swords and climb mountains. Here, you can do challenging math way above your pay grade. Here, you will learn about the history of our country from a multitude of perspectives, and read substantive essays from magnificent authors. The teachers at Walter Payton College Prep never cease to pique your curiosity. Faculty, in its entirety, has a great spectrum of wisdom and is a pillar of support for everyone who seeks their aid. And the students, from the 1st day freshman wondering the halls to the senior taking his last glance of the school, have a burning passion to learn and play 'till the bell strikes 3:30P.M.everyday. We can't wait to meet with you, share with you, and learn from you here at Walter Payton College Prep!
Read 340 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
977 Students
18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Stuyvesant High School
New York City Geographic District No. 2, NY
9-12
940 reviews
#4 Best Public High Schools in America
Senior: I am a rising senior, class of 2019. There’s a whole array of students here. But the majority of the students are academically driven. It’s not too hard to stay on top of your courses if you work for it. There will me many sleepless nights if you procrastinate. But if you can manage you time efficiently and are dedicated to your schoolwork, then classes will be doable. There are so many elective to take. Personally, I don’t have the best academics because I wanted to ensure that I could also fully enjoyed my high school experience. It’s been a stressful three year. I’ve come close to a lot of meltdowns, but I’ve also had a lot of pleasant memories here!
Read 940 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
3,368 Students
21:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Bergen County Academies
Public School
Hackensack, NJ
9-12
456 reviews
#5 Best Public High Schools in America
Senior: One's time spent at BCA will heavily be influenced by their academy. Even though each academy has different workloads, there are some academies with bigger workloads than others, meaning students in those academies have to sacrifice more of their time to get the same high grades as students of other academies. Some classes are geared to a specific academy, meaning students only of a certain academy are allowed to take them. However, there are many clubs, electives, societies, and sports students can take to enrich themselves in various ways. Also, the school is structured like college, having multiple free times throughout a day, allowing students to relax, have fun, take extra classes, or work on schoolwork throughout the day. BCA's student environment can get very competitive, but at end of the day all the students are respected by others. The students thrive with the help of teachers, administrators, and, of course, their peers.
Read 456 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
1,069 Students
11:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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The Mississippi School for Mathematics and Science
Public School
Columbus, MS
11-12
130 reviews
#6 Best Public High Schools in America
Senior: MSMS is such an amazing school. My first year at this school was pretty good. I will admit, this school is NOT for everyone, and even still, you need to do a little adjusting. Upcoming juniors: take advance of every opportunity and stay focused on your work. I know the first semester will seem terrible (or maybe not) but it gets better. The teachers and staff work so hard to make sure we all succeed. My peers are so intelligent and creative; it's really mindblowing. This school is just really good!
Read 130 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
245 Students
11:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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High Technology High School
Public School
Lincroft, NJ
9-12
84 reviews
#7 Best Public High Schools in America
Senior: Overall, my high school experience has been anything but ordinary. HTHS as a school demands hard work and dedication to your studies, and if you are not able to work at this high caliber and keep up with the rigorous coarse work, you can find yourself in a bit of trouble. All of the teachers are wonderful and supportive, and are really some of the best teachers I have every had. The students are competitive, but that is to be expected when you are thrown in a pool with so many intelligent and driven people. Although some students prefer to read their physics textbooks over having face-to-face human conversations, HTHS is charming in a nerdy way. Accommodations for health issues, however, are far and few in between which really puts a damper on all of the other positive attributes of the school. However, High Tech is still a great school full of opportunities for those willing to work hard and take on the challenge that is High Technology High School.
Read 84 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
291 Students
13:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Maggie Walker Governor's School
Public School
Richmond, VA
9-12
75 reviews
#8 Best Public High Schools in America
Senior: Over the course of the past four years, I have found that Maggie Walker is most definitely a make-your-own-experience kind of school, but regardless, its student end up very prepared for college. While it has an extremely competitive environment and poor mental health, your general experience at MW are defined by the classes, clubs, and people you choose to surround yourself with. MW has hundreds of clubs, from our acapella group Deadbeats to dance teams to our many competitive academic teams like Model UN and Debate, so every student can be sure to find a club that interests them. Compared to most other local schools, MW has a much larger array of classes with classes like Arabic and VCU Web Design. Ultimately, I would never trade my experience at MW. I have found that each class is its own tight-knit community of 180 students, which is something you can find at no other school. This school provides many incomparable opportunities, so if you get in, I encourage you to join us!
Read 75 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
746 Students
15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Basis Scottsdale
Public School
Scottsdale, AZ
4-12
76 reviews
#9 Best Public High Schools in America
Parent: The faculty, staff, volunteers, boosters, teachers, and students all are there to improve the world. The numerous clubs, from Amnesty International, Model UN, Medical Leader Club, Public Speaking Club, and the 50+ clubs for students to join, are a huge asset for building future leaders through learning first hand. They also offer many sports, arts, music programs. They have taken the best learning techniques from Europe, Asia, Canada, and the United States and brought their own techniques to life with a low teacher to student ratio. Having teachers, that are accomplished as educators and having worked in specialized fields outside of the classroom, brings a wealth of knowledge for the students. BASIS Scottsdale is rewriting what education should be. If more schools followed their path, the world would be a much more intelligent and caring place. I feel lucky to be able to have my son receive such an amazing WORLD CLASS EDUCATION!
Read 76 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
1,081 Students
11:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Massachusetts Academy of Math & Science
Public School
Worcester, MA
11-12
62 reviews
#10 Best Public High Schools in America
Senior: I absolutely loved MAMS! The teachers were kind, but there was a lot of work. Ultimately, I think that MAMS brought out the potential in me as I was motivated to work harder from friends and teachers and stop doing the minimum to get by as I had done for my sending school. Overall, great experience 10/10 would recommend!
Read 62 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
97 Students
14:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Northside College Preparatory High School
Chicago Public Schools, IL
9-12
525 reviews
#11 Best Public High Schools in America
Senior: Northside College Prep is an amazing school! Teachers here are good and counselors really help you prepare for college since it is a college preparatory high school. There are a lot of extracurricular activities like dance clubs and sports to join. However, we do not have a football team, but if you don't mind, it's okay! Since our school is part of the selective enrollment process in Chicago and is usually top in ranking, things can be competitive sometimes in terms of academics. However, this competitiveness can be encouraging and motivating you to do better and keep up your grades!
Read 525 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
1,069 Students
18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Union County Magnet High School
Public School
Scotch Plains, NJ
9-12
123 reviews
#12 Best Public High Schools in America
Junior: Union County Magnet High School is an excellent school! The student community feels like family and the teachers are available to their students often. It’s a very safe environment both physically and emotionally. There are no sports through Magnet, but students can participate in the programs of their “sending districts”, which is nice. It would be great if they fixed the sinks in the bathrooms, but other than that there isn’t much to complain about.
Read 123 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
298 Students
13:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Gwinnett School of Mathematics, Science & Technology
Gwinnett County Public Schools, GA
9-12
402 reviews
#13 Best Public High Schools in America
Alum: I like the studying atmosphere and the rigor. This is a very ambitious school. The one thing I wish they would improve is their mental health awareness. I also wish that more teachers/counselors could promote identity outside of academic success such as success as an artist, a chef, and/or just a housewife even!
Read 402 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
979 Students
17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Adlai E. Stevenson High School
Public School
Lincolnshire, IL
9-12
1,103 reviews
#14 Best Public High Schools in America
Senior: Adlai E. Stevenson is a wonderful school that offers a very, very large campus. They prepare you well for college with a plethora of AP classes and excellent teachers. The faculty and your peers are always respectful and ensure a positive and safe environment. The food is good, the sports are good, the traditions are funky, and the experiences you have will be even better!
Read 1,103 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
4,028 Students
14:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Staten Island Technical High School
New York City Geographic District No. 31, NY
9-12
609 reviews
#15 Best Public High Schools in America
Freshman: Staten Island Technical High School provides students with many opportunities through rigorous courses and clubs celebrating diversity. Students take Russian for three years (four, if they choose to). This gives students something rare to put on their resumés. However, there aren’t as many sports for females as there are for males. This gives males more chances to succeed athletically. On the other hand, the school is full of encouraging staff members. The school even has a therapy dog for students who need to relieve stress! We are also taught about substance addiction prevention. The teacher helps us open up about problems and questions we have. The school enforces a strict policy against academic dishonesty, and always reminds students to be honest about their work. For instance, the guidance counselor advises students who do not have enough time for an assignment to ask the teacher for an extension instead of cheating.
Read 609 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
1,313 Students
23:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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School of Science & Engineering
Dallas Independent School District, TX
9-12
184 reviews
#16 Best Public High Schools in America
Parent: The staff are expert and caring! Students, parents and the community are a high priority. Students leave with a first rate education! Parent and community involvement is highly encouraged.
Read 184 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
418 Students
17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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School for the Talented & Gifted
Dallas Independent School District, TX
9-12
150 reviews
#17 Best Public High Schools in America
Sophomore: I am currently a sophomore at the School for the Talented and Gifted, and I have not regretted choosing to come to this school. TAG not only has a challenging curriculum, but the environment is also welcoming. The faculty tale the time to get to know us as students, are dedicated to their jobs, and actually pay attention to how the feedback of the students. The school has created its own culture over the years where everyone is free to express their opinion, and TAG genuinely encourages you to show who you are as a person. I love my experience so far, and I know I'm receiving a great education!
Read 150 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
261 Students
15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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The Davidson Academy
Online School
Reno, NV
6-12
58 reviews
#18 Best Public High Schools in America
Parent: There is a reason families are willing to move to Reno for their kids to attend this school. The teachers are amazing! The administration cares more for the kids than any other school we've known.
Read 58 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
160 Students
8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Townsend Harris High School
New York City Geographic District No. 25, NY
9-12
565 reviews
#19 Best Public High Schools in America
Alum: It's been a few years that I've graduated from Townsend and I have to say, it prepared me so well for college. I ended up going to an ivy after high school and not only was I prepared academically, but I was more than prepared to face the competitive environment surrounding me. I realized early on in Townsend that you should not compare yourself to your peers and just always put your best foot forward, and that's exactly what I did during my time there and in college now. Furthermore, Townsend students are textbook definition of nice kids. Everyone was really respectful and friendly and promoted positive peer pressure, i.e. caring about learning, and education. I cannot recommend Townsend enough! Private school education for a public school price :).
Read 565 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
1,109 Students
20:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Whitney M. Young Magnet High School
Chicago Public Schools, IL
7-12
1,003 reviews
#20 Best Public High Schools in America
Senior: I like WY for its pride in racial diversity among the students and teachers. I love the school and the entire design of it, the classrooms not being too hard to find considering how large the school itself is. Even with three buildings it is pretty simple to get around. I love that most of the students are so nice and respectful and really take initiative in their learning, it’s such a healthy environment. My only complaint is the huge chunk of teachers who do not teach at this high school and then give hard tests that everyone fails. I’ve run into at least one of these teachers every year I’ve been attending Whitney, but maybe that’s just me. Anyways, good high school overall that I definitely do not regret attending!
Read 1,003 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
2,153 Students
19:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Bronx High School of Science
New York City Geographic District No. 10, NY
9-12
822 reviews
#21 Best Public High Schools in America
Alum: The Bronx High School of Science was exactly where I needed to be. It did not matter that I lived in Rockaway Beach because going to school there was absolutely fantastic. Sometimes, I learned more from the students than the teachers because thats how smart the students were! The AP courses were challenging, and I would love to send my children there when I have some!
Read 822 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
2,977 Students
22:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Liberal Arts & Science Academy
Austin Independent School District, TX
9-12
412 reviews
#22 Best Public High Schools in America
Alum: I'm proud to be a LASA alum. I was constantly challeged by both my classmates and teachers. LASA is stressful/high-pressure as students are generally super focused on grades, so it's not for everyone. I had fun high school experiences with the marching band, homecoming, prom, traditions, etc. It's hard, but it will prepare you for the hardest of college programs. Taking 5+ AP classes in both junior & senior year is the norm. Students are equally competitive and supportive of each other. Most students participate in summer programs, study abroad, internships, competitions, etc.

Sharing a campus with LBJ can be awkward/stressful, but many students (especially in fine arts and athletics) are friends with LBJ students. I think the exposure to this situation is good for students as they are faced with the reality of life every day and can make their choice on what they want to do about it. Of course, this will all change once LASA moves to a new campus in a few years.
Read 412 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
1,111 Students
17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Raleigh Charter High School
Public School
Raleigh, NC
9-12
181 reviews
#23 Best Public High Schools in America
Alum: Raleigh Charter was amazing! Small and personal relationships with teachers. Teachers who are knowledgable and passionate--most are doctors. A school setting that doesn't restrict students but encourages them to be themselves and embrace every part of them. Feels like a small community where everyone knows everyone and gets together. Incredible academics. Definitely prepares you for college.
Read 181 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
562 Students
14:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Biotechnology High School
Public School
Freehold, NJ
9-12
104 reviews
#24 Best Public High Schools in America
Junior: I have highs and lows when it comes to Biotechnology HS. Although it is a STEM school, the administrators try to foster a school culture that allows students to express their abilities and talents. However, this fails in the eyes of other high schools that actually put time, attention, and effort in letting extracurriculars flourish. Additionally, Biotech states that the workload is manageable, however, it honestly isn't. While teachers are amazingly qualified and caring, many don't recognize the sheer amount of work they place on students. Students have volunteering, sports, extracurriculars, jobs, family and social lives to attend to, and many have to sacrifice to do school assignments. It's even worse for upperclassmen who have extra IB required assessments to attend to. After a while, the lackluster of Biotech fades and students realize that while they are in an academic-heavy environment, they are essentially in a sheltered community that isn't very reminiscent of reality.
Read 104 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
330 Students
14:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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South Carolina Governor's School for Science & Mathematics
Public School
Hartsville, SC
11-12
96 reviews
#25 Best Public High Schools in America
Junior: I started at GSSM in 2017, and I'll graduate in 2019. The school is great overall! The faculty really cares, the students are amazing, and the classes are interesting and engaging. The workload is crazy, but teachers are almost always availible after hours for tutoring, and there are tutoring centers open from 8-10 every weeknight. The dorms are pretty decent, and each floor has two lounges that are normally pretty clean and quite. The campus is small but there is always something to do; there's a movie room, pool, a student kitchen, videogame room, art studio, music studio, and a full training/workout room. Student clubs are super active. It's hard to stay put-together, but I wouldn't trade GSSM for the world. The administration needs a serious reality check, but the student-admin communication channels are always open, so change is more than possible.
Read 96 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
280 Students
13:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Nansemond-Suffolk Academy
Private School
Suffolk, VA
PK, K-12
44 reviews
Junior: I have been going to NSA since I was five years old, and although I haven't experienced any other learning environment, I can genuinely say this is a great school. The faculty at this school care about the students and listen to their ideas to make it a better place. I am challenged every day by my peers and feel prepared for collegiate level academics. The college counselors have made the college admissions process as easy and stress free as possible. The culture at NSA is unique in the sense that it strives for not only academic excellence but also excellence in the arts and athletics. The admissions office offers many forms of financial aid, sending the strong message that this school is not just for rich students, but for scholars who strive for excellence and truly want to be at this school. Nansemond-Suffolk is a small school, but it has some truly big ideas.
Read 44 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
877 Students
5:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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BASIS Independent McLean
Private School
McLean, VA
PK, K-12
16 reviews
Parent: Our son is currently in the 2nd grade. He has been at the school for two years, and it has been a wonderful experience. The enthusiasm of the teachers, who are truly experts in the subjects they teach, is infectious. They consistently set high standards for all students at every stage of their academic career. This is a school that prioritizes academics and the students themselves; it is targeted to students with intellectual curiosity and a strong work ethic. We are very happy here!
Read 16 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
453 Students
7:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Cape Henry Collegiate
Private School
Virginia Beach, VA
PK, K-12
64 reviews
Parent: An AMAZING school! Our family switched from a Greenbrier private school to Cape Henry this year – by far the best decision I’ve made for my kids in terms of education and growth. Cape Henry Collegiate embodies the essence of Christian principles although it is not a religious school. They welcome every religion, every color, and host a robust exchange program with students from numerous countries not to mention a vast amount of students of NATO civilian and military staff in the area. However, it was the NEXUS program that sold me! The NEXUS program is the ONLY ONE in the State of Virginia. The program incorporates science and research, enabling students in every grade to experience different cultures in countries around the world. Cape Henry Collegiate students, teachers, and parents are honed in on ensuring every student succeeds. It is a culture of collective positive reinforcement and truly supportive of the students’ individuality and personal growth.
Read 64 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
949 Students
11:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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1 of 979

Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology

Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy

Walter Payton College Prep

Stuyvesant High School

Bergen County Academies

The Mississippi School for Mathematics and Science

High Technology High School

Maggie Walker Governor's School

Basis Scottsdale

Massachusetts Academy of Math & Science

Northside College Preparatory High School

Union County Magnet High School

Gwinnett School of Mathematics, Science & Technology

Adlai E. Stevenson High School

Staten Island Technical High School

School of Science & Engineering

School for the Talented & Gifted

The Davidson Academy

Townsend Harris High School

Whitney M. Young Magnet High School

Bronx High School of Science

Liberal Arts & Science Academy

Raleigh Charter High School

Biotechnology High School

South Carolina Governor's School for Science & Mathematics

Nansemond-Suffolk Academy

BASIS Independent McLean

Cape Henry Collegiate