2024 Best Public High Schools in Houston Independent School District

• Houston Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  357 reviews

Senior: Carnegie Vanguard High School is a rigorous high school that provides a great learning and challenging learning environment with the addition of Advanced Placement and Dual Credit Courses. Although the learning environment can be challenging, students at Carnegie create an enjoyable inclusive environment, whether it be from freshmen to seniors; everyone gets to enjoy this positive environment. Students can also enjoy various clubs that are started by teachers, like Chess Club, or by students like the Mahjong Club. These clubs offer great diversity, and promote a sense a inclusion to all students, as everyone is invited. In all, Carnegie Vanguard High has a very supportive environment were students can feel welcome and included, the additional support from everyone, not only students, and the rigorous academic learning a student needs to be successful.... Read 357 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 823

• Student-teacher ratio 22:1

• Houston Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  677 reviews

Senior: I believe that this school was thoroughly beneficial in terms of exposure to advanced content, and learning how to navigate through difficult circumstances. However, being here can be very overwhelming, and it is very easy to be caught up in academic achievement that self neglect becomes a major factor. My advice to future students is to really deliberate if the Health Sciences is something you are truly passionate about. If so, enter this school prepared for the complexities that are to come with this fast paced, college-preparatory environment. Complete your work as soon as you receive it, or as soon as reasonably possible, and most importantly, build and maintain your relationships with your peers, administrators, and educators. Join clubs, get involved in student politics, if interested, and work diligently to receive your DeBakey diploma :).... Read 677 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 891

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Houston Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.21 out of 5  309 reviews

Senior: HSPVA is a place for Visual artists, Theater artists , vocalists, instrumentalists, creative writers , and dancers to perdue their artistic dreams through experienced staff, a state of the art building in downtown Houston, and opportunities to have your artwork shared with the world. Our school has won three Grammys, dozens of presidencial youngarts awards, and our alumni have been featured in the MFAH, Grey's Anatomy, Jones Hall, the Wortham Center, Discovery Green, Scholastic, and the Voice. Our most famous alumni being Beyonce! Our building is equiped with sound rooms, a print room, galleries, technology labs, large outdoor patios, recording equipment, piano rooms, lounging areas, and even metalworking equipment. I have been very lucky to go to this school, and I have had my work featured in the Contemporary Arts Museum and in the Scholastic Gold Key Awards because of the excellent education that this school provides.... Read 309 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 781

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Houston Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  813 reviews

Senior: At Bellaire High School, I've experienced some of the greatest times of my life in school events like BISA (Bellaire International Student Association), the National Honor Society, and the many clubs/activities incorporated into student life. In fact, I went as far as to found my own club with two friends, which was a smooth process due to the accessibility of the resources necessary to expand student involvement. I believe that the school spirit and student involvement at Bellaire High School is the highlight of the school. However, there are some less desirable aspects of Bellaire High School such as the food and excessive administrative rules that limit the good-standing student's freedoms (mainly imposed by the ISD). Other than these few things, Bellaire High School excels in its AP classes and curriculum as well, making it an excellent and competitive school for student success in all subjects.... Read 813 reviews

• grade A

• Students 3,118

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• Houston Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  169 reviews

Alum: From my time there, majority of the teachers were always very kind and showed that they truly cared about the student's academic success. If you needed extra help, most wouldn't hesitate to offer you the help or further explanation of the subject or topic. Despite being a small school, they always tried to keep the school spirit up as much as surrounding schools. The best part about Eastwood was how students were given a voice and a change to individualize themselves for growth and overcoming challenges. I would say that Eastwood should consider, though, offering better clubs that are ran by administrators and not all ran by students, despite it teaching leadership. Most clubs created did not last and a lot would have grown with proper guidance. Eastwood should also get more involved in outer activities such as competitions.... Read 169 reviews

• grade A

• Students 398

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Houston Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  410 reviews

Senior: Challenge Early College High School is the best option for students who want to take dual credit college classes and earn an Associates Degree from Houston Community College while also earning a Distinguished High School Diploma. Academics is not as simple, since its always motivating students to pursue higher levels of education by enrolling in as many AP courses as possible. The school environment is relatively small, which allows for effective communication and a flourishing of diversity. The administration and teachers are always willing to assist students in connecting with needed resources and resolving any issues. Challenge is a small, welcoming high school that welcomes and guides young scholars to achieve their goals faster, easier, and for free! Go Eagles!... Read 410 reviews

• grade A

• Students 477

• Student-teacher ratio 24:1

• Houston Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  114 reviews

Senior: Energy is just about the best school for engineering! All students learn how to 3D model, use 3D printers and laser cutters, and how to solve engineering, math, science, political, and social problems. Our robotics teams have all the resources they need and often compete in (and win) local, state, and national tournaments! Robotics is also offered as a class, along with Computer Science, SolidWorks, and Video Game Design. The teachers are also the best I've ever had! I'm friends with more teachers here than any other school I've been to prior. This has also opened up many opportunities for me that I wouldn't have been able to access otherwise (such as 3D modeling and 3D printing certifications)! If you're a maker, or want to be, there is no better school than Energy to be help you learn and grow!... Read 114 reviews

• grade A

• Students 696

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Houston Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  234 reviews

Junior: I like my school for several reasons. Firstly, the teachers are incredibly supportive and knowledgeable, making learning engaging and enjoyable. Secondly, my school promotes a strong sense of community and inclusivity, fostering meaningful friendships and a positive atmosphere. Additionally, the diverse extracurricular activities cater to various interests, allowing students to explore their passions and talents. Furthermore, the school facilities are well-maintained, providing a conducive environment for education. Overall, my school provides an enriching educational experience, a sense of belonging, and opportunities for personal growth, making it a place I'm proud to be a part of.... Read 234 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 460

• Student-teacher ratio 22:1

• Houston Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.96 out of 5  314 reviews

Senior: I am currently a senior attending North Houston Early College High School. Over these past 3 years I have had a great experience at NHECHS. The best part about my time here is the overwhelming support from faculty and staff. This school has created a great community full of support and commitment. This school works hard so that each student can achieve success. While this school carries many pros one change I would like to see is one on one planning. By this I mean more time for each student to plan out their four years here while they are still freshmen. In my experience I have had to work harder because of a few classes I needed to complete but wasn't enrolled in. Since this is an early college high school I understand it is hard to correct or perfect every students high school and college schedule. With additional help I am sure this change can be done because NHECHS is a school ready to commit, dedicate , and put in the hard work.... Read 314 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 485

• Student-teacher ratio 21:1

• Houston Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  689 reviews

Alum: Westside High School brought many meaningful memories, from the extracurriculars even to the academics. Most of the teachers I had were really caring and just wanted their students to succeed even outside of their classroom. Academics in this school was something I bragged a lot about, as you can jump ahead in math/sciences with the right plan made with you and your advisor. In addition, there were many resources made available to the students, like laptops, covered AP tests, and Dual-Credit classes. If there was one thing I could change about Westside, it would be to have a better line of communication between the highest faculty and students from across the board, not just those with the best academic standing or those with the most involved parents. Other than that, Westside High School was great!... Read 689 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 2,938

• Student-teacher ratio 19:1

• Houston Independent School District, TX•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 3.96 out of 5  98 reviews

Senior: With YWCPA, there were moments when the workload seemed insurmountable, and doubts about my capabilities crept in. In any case, pushing through these moments of question ingrained in me a versatility that has gotten to be a foundation of my character. The rigorous AP curriculum at YWCPA challenged me intellectually and taught me the value of hard work and intellectual curiosity. This experience sharpened my critical thinking abilities and an enthusiasm for deep-rooted learning. Navigating a schedule filled with AP classes required a sense of time management. Balancing coursework, extracurricular activities, and personal time was nothing easy. In any case, this challenge presented me with the important ability to oversee my time effectively. One of the most invaluable resources provided by YWCPA was the college preparation program. From SAT prep to college workshops to college tours, the school equipped me with the knowledge needed to navigate the process of applying to colleges.... Read 98 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 427

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• Houston Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.16 out of 5  645 reviews

Senior: I've had a great experience during my years in high school. The school organized plenty of events to get the students involved and to create a connection bond between students and teachers. The academics are well taught by the teachers and teachers are willing to spend their time with students to help them in a subject they are struggling on or if a student needs emotional help. The school has created many rules that weren't on the school last year. The school has become more strict about tardies and school work. If the student follows the rules and doesn't get in trouble, then it's not a big deal. Other than that, the school is great and I will want for the upcoming students at our school to have an enjoyable, high school experience like I did.... Read 645 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 448

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• Houston Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.43 out of 5  160 reviews

Alum: Great experience. Best part of my experience was having a small tight-knit class that I was able to create a bond with everyone. I would like to see more involvement with sports in the school whether that be in district or intramural. I believe high schoolers should get the chance to engage in other after school extra activities rather than having to support their zoned schools. The worst part of my experience was having to deal with COVID-19 my sophomore year and coming to a halt mid high school. I had to make adjustments to my way of learning and adapt to the idea of staying home all day and not seeing my friends. Once junior year approached and things settled, I was able to go back to school and go back to seeing people face to face, along with getting a better understanding of the curriculum because I was in a classroom setting. However, my experience at HSLJ was definitely one for the books and i'm so grateful for my time there. I made life-long friends and met great teachers.... Read 160 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 439

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Houston Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  82 reviews

Senior: When I first came to South Early I have to be honest, I did not want to attend this school but my parents thought it was the best fit for me. So I had no choice I came. And when I tell you I am so happy I did! This is school is awesome, the teachers there really care about their students. The academics and curriculum there are very challenging but also fun at the same time. I have learned so much from South Early, this graduation will be so exciting and the anticipation will be amazing to be the first one in my family to walk across a stage with my Associates Degree! But also bittersweet as I will be exiting my high school and entering a whole new world. I am very excited but also scared at the same time but I will not let down my family and friends that got me here, the organizations that will assist me with the monies I need for a better education and promising future, and most of I will it let down myself.... Read 82 reviews

• grade B+

• Students 396

• Student-teacher ratio 21:1

• Houston Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.5 out of 5  821 reviews

Junior: I personally rate Lamar a 4/5 I say this since Lamar highschool has a couple of rules. I believe could change for the better and cause a bigger and a very positive Impact within the school. The school also prioritizes dress code. Which is very important due to crime rate that has been rising . Whenever anyone at Lamar highschool is out of dress code you’ll know. Since the staff will follow the student until they are found and put into dress code. if they choose to not to follow the rules. I agree, they should be in dress code from the start. But the school could take a different approach to this, to avoid a distraction while class happens. Over all Lamar Highschool is a great highschool to consider when enrolling. Lamar highschool provides a huge variety of sports athletics could choose from. Academically, you get a say in your classes and your voice will be heard. Over all Lamar Highschool is a great highschool!... Read 821 reviews

• grade B+

• Students 2,943

• Student-teacher ratio 22:1

• Online School•

• Houston Independent School District, TX•

• 3-12

• •
  Rating 4.46 out of 5  292 reviews

Junior: I started attending Texas Connections four years ago. It has been amazing to help me pursue my hockey dreams. I love the flexibility of the classes. It makes it so much easier to get ahead before going out of state for tournaments. When my teammates who attend public classes are stressing over missing assignments and missed days, I can focus on preparing for my games instead. It also helps with college readiness by learning to manage time and assignments on my own. The teachers are always there to help with things you may struggle to understand in the lessons. And they’re always willing to get on a phone call or a zoom call as well. The only thing I would love to see changed is the elective choices. I’d really love to take a photography or interior design class but those haven’t been available yet. Overall, Texas Connections has been great and I’m looking forward to being a Texas Connections graduate next year!... Read 292 reviews

• grade B+

• Students 10,127

• Student-teacher ratio 47:1

• Houston Independent School District, TX•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  87 reviews

Senior: This Is a great school, they care about your education, safety, and involvement. There are many clubs you can join for extracurricular activities. They also offer AP courses, which can prepare you for college. My overall experience in this school was great!... Read 87 reviews

• grade B+

• Students 1,304

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Houston Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  410 reviews

Junior: I love heights. We are a very outgoing school with a lot of pride. Our academics and extracurriculars are like nothing you've ever seen. Our school takes pride in making sure students are enjoying their stay here, and we have hundreds of programs for any interest imaginable. Not to mention countless student-ran clubs. A lot of extracurriculars were founded and led by students. Our clubs have made it to state-wide and even national competitions! Heights is not like any other average high school. There are many opportunities for students to improve or even get ahead in their academics, and there is a college program for advanced students. Heights is an IB (International-Baccalaureate) school, which we take pride in. We also have a magnet program, and STEM programs. We also have a worldwide program that takes students to other countries to learn and explore them. Heights is an amazing school choice, with programs qualifying to compete all over the U.S., plus, our national travel program.... Read 410 reviews

• grade B+

• Students 2,447

• Student-teacher ratio 19:1

• Houston Independent School District, TX•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  42 reviews

Junior: I've been going there since 6th grade and while things have been frustrating at times its been an overall great time. The school food isn't the best by any stretch of the imagination but you can door dash food to eat which is nice. Extracurricular activities are a bit limited outside of the usual suspects like sports to be best of my knowledge, the only other clubs are robotics and debate which are great in their own right but it definitely feels limiting. Overall however I find the teachers and administration open and helpful on things both in and out of school. If you can get over the obvious hurdle of mlcpa being an all boys school I'd definitely recommend attending... Read 42 reviews

• grade B+

• Students 372

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Houston Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  52 reviews

Senior: The school offers two distinct tracks; engineering and healthcare, both of which offer students to find and pursue their passions in these fields, and offers courses and guarantees certifications to be received on the day students graduate, and at the same time, students have the opportunity to earn college experience and credits while in high school due to the school's dual-credit program. The faculty and staff are respectable, supportive, and dedicated to the students' learning, the teachers help students in any way in order to ensure student success, the coursework is rigorous which tests and prepares students for college, the students are competitive and strive to become what they dream in the future, the school offers opportunities, extracurricular activities, organizations, and clubs that focus on academic tracks to be part of, seeking to expand horizons, knowledge, and offer service to the community. It is an overall scholarly environment for students seeking future success.... Read 52 reviews

• grade B minus

• Students 301

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Houston Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  147 reviews

Junior: Theres alot to say about Mount Carmel Academy but all I can say is that its a great school to enroll your kid into. It has alot of great teachers that will actually care about your kids. Yes it is a small petite school, but that means that it's also a small community. Besides it being a small community it can also mean that your kid has alot of great opportunities ahead of them. So if you're looking for a good small school for your kid or kids, come to Mount Carmel Academy in Houston, TX near the Hobby Airport Area.... Read 147 reviews

• grade B minus

• Students 268

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Houston Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.06 out of 5  88 reviews

Junior: So my High school (Energized For STEM Academy, Inc. High School) could be considered bad for other people. In my opinion it’s a good school. It would be like don’t judge a book by its cover. The high school is small but everyone knows everyone and it’s easy to make friends with.The school doesn’t get many funds but they try their best to make things good for us. They sell snacks at lunch to raise money for field trips and fun activities. Last year we got to go to many field trips because of that. This month we were able to go to the Renaissance festival and it was fun. The school also didn’t have clubs until this year because they didn’t have the resources for clubs. Now we have a debate team which they placed 3rd place last month, drama, Tame (engineering and science club), math, soccer, and they are trying to get a volleyball club as well. Teachers are nice and very helpful by staying to tutor us on any material. I do hope we get to have more stuff for next year but that’s about it.... Read 88 reviews

• grade B minus

• Students 611

• Student-teacher ratio 21:1

• Houston Independent School District, TX•

• 12

• •
  Rating 4.34 out of 5  160 reviews

Sophomore: Great community college, very diverse and easy to navigate. The staff are all credible and take their time in teaching the students and making sure we are understanding of the material. They have many locations In the Houston area so wherever you are you will be able to commute to school if need be. Safety for the school is top notch. The resources given to us in order to achieve success is amazing food pantry’s work programs scholarship and academic advisors there to help you every step of the way. If there was anything I would change is that I wished there was more activities and clubs there are only a select few. Not much food here beside vending machines and a occasional coffee place but I don’t mind their are a bunch of local places right down the street, I have also dealt with funicular aid and updating info that whole process if very easy and straight forward, but I will say the amount of time you wait on that phone yo hear back from somebody is astronomical... Read 160 reviews

• grade B minus

• Students 74

• Student-teacher ratio 4:1

• Houston Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  85 reviews

Alum: Booker T. Washington High School is a very amazing school. Not only are they excellent on the side of academics, their sports teams are fantastic!... Read 85 reviews

• grade B minus

• Students 849

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• Houston Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 5 out of 5  2 reviews

Niche User: Its a great small enviorment, teaches work very well with us student. Teachers and falclaties are always there, make us feel in a safe place , and is there all the time when or if anything happens in and outside of school. Its another home to me. Striving us and wanting us to be successful, setting us goals and telling us when to reach them even for our future.... Read 2 reviews

• grade C+

• Students 129

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1