2019 Best Public High Schools in the Raleigh Area

Best Schools

78 results

Raleigh Charter High School
Public School
Raleigh, NC
9-12
173
#1 Best Public High Schools in Raleigh Area
Freshman: Raleigh Charter High School is really a great school. I started out not wanting to come here, but everyone was so welcoming! The older class students are extremely helpful, and the teachers are very qualified in the subject they teach. There is also a wide variety of clubs! You can even make your own, if you like.
I am so thankful that I have gotten to experience such an amazing place. For anyone doubting going here or not, definitely try it out! I’m almost sure you won’t regret it.
Read 173 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
561 Students
13:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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East Chapel Hill High School
Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools, NC
9-12
218
#2 Best Public High Schools in Raleigh Area
Senior: East is pretty good. Most teachers really prepare students for college, future academics, etc. Most kids are very academically oriented, so there is less school spirit than average. People complain about the food but it's actually really good, with long lines at the beginning of each lunch and a variety to choose from everyday. The school has a very liberal atmosphere, and is pretty accepting also. THere are a variety of extracurriculars to choose from and many classes (ie. APs, PLTW, Biomed .etc) that many students can take/elect to start. Overall, it's a pretty nice school!
Read 218 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
1,360 Students
16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Green Hope High School
Wake County Schools, NC
9-12
372
#3 Best Public High Schools in Raleigh Area
Senior: I liked the friendly atmosphere that Green Hope provided. Most underclassmen are usually afraid of upperclassmen at the beginning of high school, but the teachers and staff made mostly everyone, including myself, feel right at home. I never struggled with anything socially, and academics at Green Hope are beyond stellar. We are one of the top academic and athletic schools in North Carolina!
Read 372 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
2,637 Students
20:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Roanoke Catholic School
Private School
Roanoke, VA
PK, K-12
58
Alum: I attended RCS since 5th grade, and absolutely loved it. This school provides an excellent college prep education while being centered on Catholic teaching. The teachers deeply care for their students, and definitely push them to be better students, but also better people. Theology classes certainly teach the beliefs of the Church but also allow for questions and discussion about the Catholic faith, which gives students the opportunity to own their faith rather than know about their faith. I would highly recommend this school to any family interested in a high quality, holistically minded, education.
Read 58 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
501 Students
12:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Carrboro High School
Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools, NC
9-12
183
#4 Best Public High Schools in Raleigh Area
Alum: Love the school! It was super inclusive due to the small size and most teachers really care about their students. Any bad teacher is quickly run off by angry students who make their voice heard. There are many opportunities given for students to achieve the future they want.

However, the administration, specifically the principal, undermines some of the values of the school. She is not involved with the students and often ignores their opinion. Many teachers also, in secret, dislike her aggressive and off-putting style. Instead of fostering the amazing Carrboro community she is working to destroy it and has no trust in any students, despite most never having done anything wrong.
Read 183 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
813 Students
14:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Panther Creek High School
Wake County Schools, NC
9-12
427
#5 Best Public High Schools in Raleigh Area
Senior: My experience at Panther Creek High School was phenomenal; just like any rising freshmen, I had mixed feelings about high school in general. Would I make new friends? Would the classes be extremely difficult? Would it be safe for a reserved student like me? However, the diversity and the teachers made high school a very enjoyable experience that I will never forget. Most of the teachers are people that care to connect with their students outside the classroom, and all of them are very optimistic, which makes each day all the better. The diversity of the school too allowed me to be open to a variety of demographic and ideological groups; I now have a better understanding of what the outside world really looks like. One thing I would change is to have more committed counselors that want to connect with their students. Otherwise, I truly enjoyed my academic and social life at the high school!
Read 427 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
2,791 Students
19:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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William G. Enloe High School
Wake County Schools, NC
9-12
619
#6 Best Public High Schools in Raleigh Area
Junior: Enloe is great! It has the best arts and academics in the state. I have to say that the student to teacher ratio listed here (1:17) is ridiculous. I only have 1 class with fewer than 31 students and that's because it has 3 years worth of prerequisites. With that said, the teachers we have are fantastic, and there are high expectations from the students.
Read 619 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
2,501 Students
17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Chapel Hill High School
Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools, NC
9-12
205
#7 Best Public High Schools in Raleigh Area
Senior: I enjoyed the math and science teachers. The sports are amazing! The english department could be improved especially reading and sentence structure for writing. Having a seminar course to illustrate varied college majors would be helpful. With all the varied professions in the triangle, parents allowing students to visit and learn about their place of work would help students decide on their college majors. The high school buildings need to be renovated but that is planned for next year!
Read 205 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
1,463 Students
16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Durham School of the Arts
Durham Public Schools, NC
6-12
221
#8 Best Public High Schools in Raleigh Area
Senior: This is my 7th year at Durham School of the Arts. There isn't enough space to capture all the respect and love I have for this school or that of my peers. We've all grown together as a family. The art classes are rigorous but in the end, it all pays off via professional productions, artwork, writing, etc. by dedicated, talented students who’ve been crafting their talent for years. Most of the students and instructors are uplifting and engaged, and the academics prepare you well for college. The teachers are very understanding and go out of their way to help. Creatives thrive, as opportunities to put oneself out there and learn about careers are easily accessible. I didn’t give a 5 because like any other school, DSA isn't perfect. Academic rigor can stress students out and promote intense academic competition. However, it’s still an amazing school that produces well-rounded students who are ready to face the world head-on, whether that be through academic or creative approaches.
Read 221 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
1,639 Students
15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Woods Charter School
Public School
Chapel Hill, NC
K-12
32
#9 Best Public High Schools in Raleigh Area
Junior: Woods Charter School is a very small school, with an average of 40 students per grade. This small learning environment makes it easy for students to interact with teachers and have their voices heard in the classroom. Students connect with each other well, and there is a very communal, friendly environment in every classroom. However, with a small school there is a limited number of classes available to students who want to explore majors and careers, and the small size also limits the number of sports. Even with these restrictions, Woods offers many AP courses and has many clubs and after school activities for students to become involved in.
Read 32 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
503 Students
11:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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- 2019 Best Public Middle Schools
- 2019 High Schools with the Best Teachers
- 2019 Best Public High Schools for STEM
Heritage High School
Wake County Schools, NC
9-12
269
#10 Best Public High Schools in Raleigh Area
Senior: I have attended Heritage High School since Freshman year, and I wouldn't change it for anything in the world. I have met so many different people and gotten connected through many extracurriculars, and have Heritage to thank for that. The diversity that this school has is not comparable to the other schools here in Wake Forest. We also have a strong athletic department and strive high in academics. The faculty is extremely friendly here and always available to help. When I visit other schools, I come back so impressed with my school, whether it be the classrooms, students, or athletic facilities. Heritage has prepared me for college in terms of educationa and life skills. I am so blessed to be able to live out my high school years at Heritage High School.
Read 269 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
1,891 Students
18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Wake Early College of Health & Sciences
Wake County Schools, NC
9-12
117
#11 Best Public High Schools in Raleigh Area
Alum: This was a very rewarding school experience. Aside from countless sleepless nights, the outcome is what kept me going. Five years of high school and dual enrollment in college courses lead me to achieve my Associates of Science and High School Diploma the same year. This school also offers various opportunities to be exposed to different health occupations, and once a Junior or Senior, students have the chance to become a certified Nurse Aide, EMT, or Phlebotomist.
Read 117 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
273 Students
25:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Wake NC State University STEM Early College High School
Wake County Schools, NC
9-12
26
#12 Best Public High Schools in Raleigh Area
Alum: It's a great early college high school! It has all the resources you need to be successful. The advance technology prepare you for the real world. The community support for the school make it a great place to be a part of. It would be a complete package if sports were offered. You do have the option to attend certain surrounding schools sports. It's always better to tie it with the school you're attending. One thing I would change is increase parking.
Read 26 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
213 Students
18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Research Triangle High School
Public School
Research Triangle Pk, NC
9-12
31
#13 Best Public High Schools in Raleigh Area
Senior: RTHS focuses on all aspects of education and student life, aspects of the school with which I have grown to love and greatly appreciate. I have learned how to effectively work and collaborate with people who have different backgrounds and views than my own. Because of small class sizes, I have had the opportunity to receive one-on-one teacher support both inside and outside the classroom. I have explored my interests both in class and in student life. Although RTHS is a STEM based school, participation in arts and athletics is also encouraged. Students are given opportunities to start clubs, and to pursue university and industry partnerships. My classes have been taught using a variety of instructional models and I have discovered how to learn and thrive in a variety of environments, both individually and collaboratively. Attending RTHS has been a truly wonderful experience encouraging learning and growth in education and student life. I am proud to call myself a RTHS raptor!
Read 31 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
454 Students
15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Apex High School
Wake County Schools, NC
9-12
392
#14 Best Public High Schools in Raleigh Area
Alum: I loved my time at Apex High because it helped me figure out who I am as a person. I was taught by the BEST chorus teacher in North Carolina! I also was on the track team and learned a lot about my character. Every teacher and coach that I ever had, truly cared about what they were doing and truly cared about the well being of every single student. Because the school is quite old, I would like to see it be renovated, which is already happening. I also would like to see more diversity in culture and ethnicity among the student body and with the staff and faculty.
Read 392 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
2,276 Students
18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Leesville Road High School
Wake County Schools, NC
9-12
437
#15 Best Public High Schools in Raleigh Area
Alum: The teachers and students at this school are extremely welcoming and will make you want to learn, at least most of them. It's very cool that the high school is connected to the middle and elementary schools, as it will offer lots of volunteer opportunities. There are tons of amazing AP level classes and other challenging courses that will engage you. However, the school itself isn't exactly well-kept. The bathrooms are hideous, I'm pretty sure some have holes in the walls. The school puts way too much money into sports, I had to share a calculus textbook (one that was barely staying together at the seams) with 4 other people, and my history textbook was written the year I was born. Students are absolutely great and it is a very welcoming community overall, minus the buildings themselves.
Read 437 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
2,371 Students
19:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Johnston County Early College Academy
Johnston County Schools, NC
9-12
94
#16 Best Public High Schools in Raleigh Area
Freshman: I am a freshman here and love it so far! To those who want to say stuff about ECA, go do it somewhere else. ECA is a place filled with happiness and laughter. Everybody is so close and there is much less drama than regular schools. They teachers actually care about not just themselves but about you also. If you do something wrong, action will be taken. To people who think you just come here to escape traditional high schools, you're wrong. The people who come here really do care about their education. Teachers don't teach for their own personal gain, they do it for us. Sure, we don't have a great sports team. But who cares? We have excellent staff and excellent students. That's the stuff that matters.
Read 94 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
202 Students
27:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Franklin Academy
Public School
Wake Forest, NC
K-12
204
#17 Best Public High Schools in Raleigh Area
Alum: Good experience! Well prepared for college ( engineering). The leadership opportunities in clubs were helpful in getting into colleges. The senior project was great to show leadership and writing skills and presentation confidence. Going to Imagineers at Disney was once in a lifetime experience.Faculty care about your success and provide mentorship.
Math classes allow for AP placement into the college level. English writing courses prepare you for MLA format in college and I even had to assist other students who he no experience with MLA.
Read 204 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
1,643 Students
15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Middle Creek High School
Wake County Schools, NC
9-12
384
#18 Best Public High Schools in Raleigh Area
Alum: Middle Creek HS is a supportive, caring community of dedicated teachers and parents. There are so many activities for students to become involved in the school. The students really like being at Middle Creek and are very supportive of each other!
Read 384 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
2,283 Students
19:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Needham Broughton High School
Wake County Schools, NC
9-12
377
#19 Best Public High Schools in Raleigh Area
Senior: Broughton evokes its student into achieving their goals through a variety of classes and teachers that are prepared to encourage those students to build upon their knowledge. Students can build their classes centered upon their personal interest as it may pertain to their future aspirations which is fantastic. Outside of the classroom, Broughton encourages its students to give back to the school and the community through its variety of clubs and sports which are not only great but influential. Students build a bond with one another and those friendships last throughout the four years and beyond as broughton instills greatness within its students.
Read 377 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
2,129 Students
16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Cary High School
Wake County Schools, NC
9-12
282
#20 Best Public High Schools in Raleigh Area
Alum: Despite the age of some of the buildings, the environment is very friendly and social. The teachers are phenomenal, relatable, and inspiring- they really care and want the best for their students, constructing creative curriculums and encouraging proactive teamwork. Cary High is paramount in its creative, academic, and athletic culture- with the added benefit that it's situated right near downtown Cary, which itself is experiencing a cultural renaissance. I have met many classmates and peers who have excelled in their studies at Cary High, and went on to do great things, attending top accredited colleges and universities. There is no doubt in my mind that everyone at Cary has equal opportunity in discussion and social issues, are provided with a safe learning environment, and have many resources to guide them along the way. Overall, Cary High School is definitely a pathway to excellence.
Read 282 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
2,398 Students
18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Millbrook High School
Wake County Schools, NC
9-12
392
#21 Best Public High Schools in Raleigh Area
Alum: My experience was defined by my involvement in the arts departments and the International Baccalaureate program, both of which I would rate highly. Millbrook definitely excels in the arts! The instruction is excellent and the opportunities are there, I only wish the school would devote more money and resources to the arts instead of throwing money at creating student lounges with giant flat screen TVs. Millbrook has an excellent IB program. They make sure you succeed and I had some great teachers that really cared about what they did. My success in that program and the arts programs helped me get into a prestigious university along with many other students.
Read 392 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
2,432 Students
17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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J.D. Clement Early College High School
Durham Public Schools, NC
9-12
173
#22 Best Public High Schools in Raleigh Area
Senior: As a senior of Early College High School, my experience these past four years have been awesome. The classmates, teachers, and the staff is very helpful. They just want what is best for their students. Anything that we needed help with, they will go out of their way to help us find a solution to our problem. Of course there was the mountains of homework we have to do and had limited free time to ourselves, but that is because they want us to be college ready. Colleges love to make their students suffer with mountains of homework anyway, so getting it now is building a high tolerance of taking on so much homework. Also, if you use your time wisely, you will be able to survive the mountains of homework they dish out. I mean that is the only reason why I survived this far in high school and I is going to be awesome when I graduate too!
Read 173 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
354 Students
24:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Cedar Ridge High School
Orange County Schools, NC
9-12
226
#23 Best Public High Schools in Raleigh Area
Alum: Cedar Ridge was a great school and really helped make me feel prepared for college, especially my senior advisory. Participation can really effect your experience with the school and how much you get out of it but as long as you put the work in, it helps to reap the benefits! I also love the extra curricular activities, take advantage of all the school has to offer!
Read 226 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
1,140 Students
16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Longleaf School of the Arts
Public School
Raleigh, NC
9-12
12
#24 Best Public High Schools in Raleigh Area
Senior: Longleaf is a small school with an excellent focus on preparing its students for college. Since it has such a small population, teachers and administration are very involved with students. Each student recieves more personalized attention than they would in a public school setting. Longleaf requires the use of iPads at school, which was very interesting and opened the doors to many new activities. The clubs at Longleaf are pretty good. If a student wishes to create a new one, it is possible. Currently the school has no organized sports, but there is talk of them being implemented in the future!
Read 12 Reviews
A-
Overall Niche Grade
300 Students
13:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Holly Springs High School
Wake County Schools, NC
9-12
420
#25 Best Public High Schools in Raleigh Area
Senior: I really enjoyed my four years at Holly Springs! Almost every teacher I had really made sure that I got the resources I needed to succeed, and made me feel as if they genuinely cared about me. HOT Lunch was also an awesome part of HSHS, as it allowed me both to have more time to eat and socialize with my friends, but also to gain help in classes when I was struggling, through tutorial times. If I could suggest any changes to Holly Springs, I would suggest that there would be more meetings with the students and admin as students got closer to graduation, so that students could feel more prepared for college.
Read 420 Reviews
A-
Overall Niche Grade
2,166 Students
20:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Whittle School & Studios
Opening September 2019, Private School
Washington, DC
PK, K-10
NG
Overall Niche Grade
— Students
— Student-Teacher Ratio
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Sponsored
BASIS Independent McLean
Private School
McLean, VA
PK, K-12
12
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 12 Reviews
NG
Overall Niche Grade
375 Students
6:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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1 of 4

Raleigh Charter High School

East Chapel Hill High School

Green Hope High School

Roanoke Catholic School

Carrboro High School

Panther Creek High School

William G. Enloe High School

Chapel Hill High School

Durham School of the Arts

Woods Charter School

Heritage High School

Wake Early College of Health & Sciences

Wake NC State University STEM Early College High School

Research Triangle High School

Apex High School

Leesville Road High School

Johnston County Early College Academy

Franklin Academy

Middle Creek High School

Needham Broughton High School

Cary High School

Millbrook High School

J.D. Clement Early College High School

Cedar Ridge High School

Longleaf School of the Arts

Holly Springs High School

Whittle School & Studios

BASIS Independent McLean