2023 Best Public High Schools in Passaic County

• Wayne Township Public School District, NJ•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  253 reviews

Senior: I absolutely love attending Wayne Hills High School! It is a great environment for all students to learn and succeed. Through the activities and clubs provided by Wayne Hills High School, students have the opportunity to learn in and out of the classroom. There is nothing I would change about the school because it is perfect in every way. Wayne Hills is a safe place where students are encouraged to share their opinions with others. The teachers are devoted to their job and specific areas of study. Students can always rely on the their teachers for advice and any extra help needed. There are plenty of clubs in every subject a student is interested in, which is great for the diverse students at Wayne Hills. Looking back at my four years at Wayne Hills High School, I can proudly say that it is a cherished time I will remember forever.... Read 253 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,236

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Passsaic County Vocational School District, NJ•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.14 out of 5  28 reviews

Junior: My experience at DCL STEM Academy has been great. I received amazing opportunities such as participating in the BD debate challenge about whether genetic editing on human embryos should be permitted. Furthermore, I was surrounded by like minded students who have are passionate about STEM. I had the ability to do many hands on activities that led me to experience one on one what its like to be in the medical field. For example, I have diseccted a sheep's brain, watched a live kidney transplant, and heard lectures from college students and medical professionals. The teachers at STEM always push their students to do their best and the school has great resources if you are ever struggling in a subject. Overall, I'm very grateful to be a student at DCL STEM because it allows to be surrounded by high achieving students, great resources to prepare me for college, and sets higher standards for students every year to make themselves reach their fullest potential.... Read 28 reviews

• grade A

• Students 792

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Wayne Township Public School District, NJ•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  242 reviews

Senior: I have had a wonderful four year experience at Wayne Valley. I have been successful and learned so much academically. The teachers always set high expectations for their classes. They are amazing and always engaged with the students. The teachers are willing to help and offer extra support. They have open communication with the parents and always keep them updated. They build good relationships with the students. The administration support students socially and emotionally. I have always felt comfortable and safe in school. They have provided the students with wonderful assemblies, motivational speakers, fashion shows and many other events. The athletic program was outstanding. I always had great experiences with all of the sports that I have participated in. It was well organized and full of pride. The coaches always motivated the athletes. The girls soccer team won the states in 2022. Overall I am happy that I attended Wayne Valley and I wouldn't change a thing .... Read 242 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,212

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• Pompton Lakes School District, NJ•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.23 out of 5  95 reviews

Junior: Despite the smaller school size, the school spirit is immeasurable as it fills the halls, about to burst through the walls at any moment! The teachers are incredibly willing to help students to succeed. Students can work closely with the teachers, allowing strong relationships to form. The school offers a selection of clubs and activities, making it easy to pursue one's interests, although the options may be limited or not explored to their full potential. Students also receive academic recognition, enabling them to remain motivated and reach their academic goals with the support system. However, as a smaller school, there are times where it feels limiting. Overall, the traditions and pride the school offers allows a majority of students to receive a strong education while enjoying themselves through their highschool careers.... Read 95 reviews

• grade A

• Students 679

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Passsaic County Vocational School District, NJ•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.07 out of 5  1,074 reviews

Junior: My experience at this school has only been positive. The school is diverse with plenty of opportunities, whether they are through clubs or programs the school offers. However, the work load is no joke. As this is a vocational school, students spend most of their time majoring in a subject, and take classes around that subject. The school is serious about its students' education, so a lot of times the work can get overwhelming depending on what major the student is in, but overall it is very doable!... Read 1,074 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 3,429

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Little Falls, NJ•

• Public School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  286 reviews

Parent: Positive changes abound at PV! Acedemic and facility improvements over the past 8 months have changed the entire mindset here. New and beneficial programs for student development are the benchmark of this institution, and the continuous development of the curriculum for all. Great staff of teachers and administrators continue to prepare all students for college or whatever path a student wishes to pursue after high school.... Read 286 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 1,034

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Wanaque, NJ•

• Public School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.48 out of 5  322 reviews

Alum: Lakeland Regional High School brings together 3 towns which allows you to acclimate with more people in your nearby community. The teachers were knowledgeable and friendly and really seemed to have a vested interest in the students future. The athletic programs in particular, soccer was one of my favorite experiences during high school. The varsity team worked so good together. The only complaint is that we didn't and still don't have a turf field which made it a big adjustment playing on grass and then on an artifical field. You had to learn how to control the ball differently but we had a great coach who always supported us.... Read 322 reviews

• grade B+

• Students 924

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• Clifton Public School District, NJ•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.47 out of 5  532 reviews

Senior: I have had a great experience being a student at Clifton High School. I feel as though I have learned beyond my expectation and have become an exceptional student in areas such as Science, English, and have improved significantly in mathematics compared to my academic limitations when I entered Clifton High School. It is a fun and homey school that gives its students every opportunity to learn, grow, and gain experience in public and social relations such as fundraising, charitable events, film, design, and so much more. I feel Clifton High School is a community where students will make lifelong friends, and develop relationships with fellow peers, staff, and faculty that will allow them to prosper as they develop into young adults. Throughout the past 4 years of attending this school, I strongly believe that the Clifton Board of Education shows daily that they care deeply about the safety and wellbeing of their students and staff, and to remind students to think big and aim high.... Read 532 reviews

• grade B

• Students 2,891

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1

• Hawthorne Public School District, NJ•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  92 reviews

Senior: The Hawthorne High School girls sports teams was a very welcoming environment that cultivated many positive experiences. Many of my previous friendships were strengthened, us bonding over our love of the sport, and new friendships were made. I never felt out of place or unwanted. Most of my favorite high school memories were made on the field or on the court. One aspect of Hawthorne High School that I wish was different was the prioritization of mental health. Students have struggled and continue to struggle with their mental health, and over the pandemic, it has only gotten worse. Although the administration implemented programs, it felt disconnected from the student body, as not many teachers encouraged discussions about the importance of taking care of your mental state.... Read 92 reviews

• grade B

• Students 631

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Passaic City School District, NJ•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.5 out of 5  16 reviews

Niche User: What I liked about Passaic Academy for Science & Engineering is how they really value and care for students education and life beyond just high school. The school's preparation and structure for students within the school year and after gives them an advantage like no other. For example, the school offers students a program, in which they are able to get their associates degree while being in high school. So not only are you graduating with a high school diploma you are also graduating with an associates degree. In my eyes, that is very helpful and it gives the students benefits with knowing how to manage being in college because of the experience this program gives them.... Read 16 reviews

• grade B

• Students 884

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1

• Passaic, NJ•

• Public School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  7 reviews

Senior: My experience at charter has been different. I first started at passaic charter as a junior because i transferred schools. It was a great new environment where I met a lot of new people and created new relationships. The school is very fair and equal and kids aren’t treated different by staff whether who they are and it made me feel comfortable. I also participate in sports and all students and faculty are very invested in sports for the school which is something that doesn’t happen at most schools. Overall charter is a great place, but some things that should change involve the discipline for the rules that have no real hurt towards others... Read 7 reviews

• grade B minus

• Students 1,701

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• West Milford Township Public School District, NJ•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.33 out of 5  254 reviews

Parent: The school is very big on sports and extracurriculars for students. The teachers are good but you have to advocate for yourself or have your parents advocate for you. Like many other schools, you get what you put into it and parents have to be involved otherwise you won't be heard. There is a lack of diversity and as can be expected by the make up of the area, there is much racism swept under the rug by the DOE.... Read 254 reviews

• grade B minus

• Students 953

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Paterson Public School District, NJ•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  89 reviews

Junior: I really enjoyed my sophomore year at International High School. The school has a very diverse selection of clubs including Spanish, Chinese, and French Club. The school even offers a gay straight alliance and Black History association. The one thing I noticed was the lack in school events which I feel is very important to help students interact with another.... Read 89 reviews

• grade B minus

• Students 481

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Haledon, NJ•

• Public School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.5 out of 5  125 reviews

Senior: My experience at Manchester has been incredible. Being a smaller school, teachers are so willing to take time to spend one on one with you. There are tons of clubs to get involved in and you can just tell that everyone loves what they are doing. I think it is so important to have people to talk to and Manchester offers that with the Falcon's Lounge and the Student Assitance Counselor. There is a clear devotion to the wellness of the students which I love. We recently updated the library which has allowed us to conduct podcasts which is so cool! As high schoolers, Manchester provides us with so many opportunities.... Read 125 reviews

• grade B minus

• Students 802

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Paterson Public School District, NJ•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  1 review

Alum: It is a good school with a smart and innovative theme, but the student programs could be better improved by a lower teacher turnover rate.... Read 1 review

• grade B minus

• Students 183

• Student-teacher ratio —

• Paterson Public School District, NJ•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  8 reviews

Sophomore: The teachers are amazing, helpful, and reliable. The education itself is great but the administrators push the college degree program on us way too much.... Read 8 reviews

• grade C+

• Students 215

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Paterson, NJ•

• Public School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 3.46 out of 5  119 reviews

Alum: Paterson Charter School for Science and Technology is the best school in the district. Although there is not a large variety of clubs and activity, there is fair amount of sports. The staff members are wonderful and the teachers you push to do your best. Students are provided with a extrema period a day for extra help whenever needed. Students who do not need help and have good grade are given that extra period to play around in the gymnasium. Overall, PCSST is a great school, but there are certain areas that can be improved.... Read 119 reviews

• grade C+

• Students 1,632

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Paterson Public School District, NJ•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.43 out of 5  7 reviews

Senior: The school of science technology, engineering, and mathematics is a good high school, it has good teachers that try to help their students with anything. The classes are fun and educating!... Read 7 reviews

• grade C+

• Students 625

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Paterson, NJ•

• Public School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  8 reviews

Alum: This is a great school to send students to. Since it's on a smaller scale compared to other schools, they make up for it with more one-to-one time working with students to prepare for college, PSAT/SATs, and other essential factors students will soon face. The school is also diverse in its ethnicity. Excellent choice for parents!... Read 8 reviews

• grade C+

• Students 943

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1

• Paterson Public School District, NJ•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.6 out of 5  5 reviews

Alum: The school of health science was a very good school. The teachers were very helpful and the courses are convenient if you want go into medical school. I wish they had more activities for the students but overall, it's a great school.... Read 5 reviews

• grade C+

• Students 298

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• Passaic City School District, NJ•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.5 out of 5  4 reviews

Sophomore: Passaic Preparatory Academy has a diverse and productive environment. There are a variety of classes, Dance, Art, Music, Theater, Law, etc. In my experience, the school is pleasant, and I am accepted the way I am.... Read 4 reviews

• grade C

• Students 817

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Paterson Public School District, NJ•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.13 out of 5  16 reviews

Senior: Amazing school , best 4 years of my life.Teachers and other staff were amazing, I recommend any new freshman to attend this academy.... Read 16 reviews

• grade C

• Students 627

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Paterson Public School District, NJ•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.17 out of 5  6 reviews

Senior: The school or architecture construction trades isn’t the best school but don’t let that fool you, we are a family. From the loving teachers to the great kids. We work with what we have and we are taught to appreciate everything and everyone around us. The school itself does not have the best reputation but I know it for what it is. Very sad to be graduating but I’m glad the experience will always be with me.... Read 6 reviews

• grade C

• Students 583

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Paterson Public School District, NJ•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.92 out of 5  13 reviews

Junior: I would like it if there could be more involved when it comes to the students and clubs since clubs, as well as opportunities and resources, aren't advertised enough.... Read 13 reviews

• grade C

• Students 466

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Paterson Public School District, NJ•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  59 reviews

Senior: RPHS is completely underrated as a cultural center for the city. No where else, in my opinion, will you find kids so passionate about what their talents. The vibe curated by the school is completely welcoming, even though it's affected by the typical ups and downs of a high school. The students have a genuine love for their major, and it shows. The amount of care and dedication put into peformances, artwork, writings, etc. is amazing, and something to be proud of. There's definitely some problems with the availiabilty of resources as well as the organization and management. But these are problems with the district as a whole that trickle down, and really go against the students' progress. The kids here have potential, but never get a chance to use it, and that's what always hurt me regarding the structural problems. I always remember my time here fondly (even if no one ever appreaciated my major). But, bottom line: if you love the arts, this is the school for you.... Read 59 reviews

• grade C

• Students 238

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1