2023 Best Public High Schools in the San Antonio Area

• BASIS Texas Charter Schools, TX•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  61 reviews

Sophomore: There are many things that I like about Basis Shavano. First off, the school provides a wide variety of classes and extracurriculars students can choose from, enabling them to enroll into classes or clubs they actually like and giving them a chance to see what their future majors could be like. Not only that, the teachers at Basis are extremely helpful and nice, making the learning experience at Basis not bad at all. Did I mention the lunches? Definitely above-average. However, if there was one thing I could change about my experience at Basis would be the homework load. Basis is the type of school that challenges students in order to prepare them for college, and this is great, but since there isn't a cap on the amount of homework assigned per class, the upper-grade students receive much more work than necessary. Besides that, learning at Basis as a students has been great by far, and I most likely will attend my next high school year at Basis!... Read 61 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,050

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Northside Independent School District (San Antonio), TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.21 out of 5  629 reviews

Junior: Health Careers High School is by far the best high school anyone can attend here in San Antonio! Theres something here for everybody. No matter who you are or who you will be, you can learn a lot from Health Careers. With challenging courses and engaging teachers, it's impossible to be uninterested in learning. Not only that, the community is strong and supporting, as well as diverse. We have people of all kinds of backgrounds, ethnicities, religions, and race all welcoming and kind to one another. Even after the Pandemic, the sense of community and love still persisted and that is truly a blessing. Many graduates upon leaving have expressed that they felt prepared for college and some have even gone on to Medical School! Health Careers High School is the place to be for students in San Antonio. I simply cannot imagine my life without this beautiful school.... Read 629 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 905

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• North East Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.99 out of 5  664 reviews

Senior: Reagan High School can be a very prestigious high school at times. Your class rank and grades are taken very seriously among the teachers and students. However, our Fine Arts programs are exceptional! Our art, choir, orchestra, band, theater and speech and debate programs have all received outstanding awards and recognitions throughout the last two decades. There are dozens of electives and clubs you can join to make friends and find your passions and interests.... Read 664 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 3,401

• Student-teacher ratio 19:1

• North East Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.07 out of 5  754 reviews

Junior: There's so many opportunities at Johnson, and all the programs are so well managed. It's rare to find a school that's competitive at football, wrestling, basketball, band, orchestra, choir, and theater. Band and orchestra have even performed and competed at the national level! The academic programs are strong and produce incredible AP scores. It's an amazing school, no wonder we have more transfers every year.... Read 754 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 3,186

• Student-teacher ratio 19:1

• North East Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.28 out of 5  292 reviews

Alum: This school gives diverse learning opportunities through unconventional teaching methods. Through project based curriculums, combining lesson plans through all subjects, requiring a B average or higher to stay enrolled, 200+ hours of community service, two languages studied, international travel, and a focus in Honors/AP courses, this school goes above and beyond to prepare the creative minds of its students for College and the professional world. Being a free, non-tuition magnet school, it maintains a balanced demographic by lottery picking its students from all areas of the city. There needs to be more schools like this in America. The wonderful education given here is the education deserved by all students.... Read 292 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 487

• Student-teacher ratio 21:1

• Boerne Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.04 out of 5  382 reviews

Senior: Boerne Champion offers students many opportunities starting from the moment they walk into the doors their freshman year. They provide many options for both students who know what they want to study in college as well as options who students who may still be questioning their futures. The faculty and staff work hard in order to prepare students for their futures by providing challenging courses but also by providing support for the students. The classes are challenging yet engaging and more than prepare the students for what they will come across after graduation wether they are going to a university, community college, trade school etc. I am fully confident that my four years at Boerne Champion have prepared me as well as my peers in the best ways possible to succeed in the years to come.... Read 382 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,883

• Student-teacher ratio 20:1

• Lackland Independent School District, TX•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.04 out of 5  49 reviews

Senior: Stacey is a great school with amazing teachers and staff. while the school is small I think that's a benefit, everyone knows each other and you really feel like you're in a community. The staff are always open to help you or answer your questions and provide great resources for our future. While our school isn't perfect it's one of the best I've been too... Read 49 reviews

• grade A

• Students 363

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Alamo Heights Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  332 reviews

Alum: Alamo Heights High School is full of funding and opportunities that exponentially benefit its students. The culture of the school is very much a double edged sword; the majority of students are high performing and of above average intelligence, which propels individuals to be as successful as their peers, however students of average intelligence are often left to believe they are “dumb”. The community of Alamo Heights is predominantly white, and is generationally consistent. There are many students whose parents and grandparents went to their high school. The resources and education quality made accessible to students is unlike anywhere else. The hyper-privileged, exclusive community surrounding the school can be harmful to “outsiders” or minorities.... Read 332 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,671

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1

• Northside Independent School District (San Antonio), TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  798 reviews

Senior: This high school gives all of it's attention to it's students and funds the school equally. Not only do I always feel at home here at Brandeis but district assures that I have what I need to pass until graduation. The counselors introduced to me the finest and best classes they could offer to me that fit my portfolio, which I was thankful for. Thank you Brandeis!... Read 798 reviews

• grade A

• Students 2,870

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• School of Science & Technology, TX•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  143 reviews

Works Here: I am a proud teacher at SST. I have taught in other districts in the public domain, but SST is so much different. It is a family! The students who attend here are amazing. They inspire me to be a better educator. Our students have designed and created 3-D printed hands for children born with missing limbs. I am in awe of the innovative future leaders, doctors, cyber security warriors, computer programmers and other STEM professionals that attend here. These students are going to change the world! I have been part of this family for 5 years and plan to stay here until I retire. In my opinion, there is no better school out there! The administration treats the faculty with respect and I feel appreciated each day. More importantly, the administration care very much about the students, as well. Many were former educators or counselors at this school. They know all the students and really listen to students' concerns. SST truly is the best place to be!... Read 143 reviews

• grade A

• Students 446

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• Northside Independent School District (San Antonio), TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  638 reviews

Senior: Tom C. Clark has extremely attentive advanced teachers that dedicate time for their student's success. It doesn't leave students behind and creates a network of assistance and safety that fosters the possibility of furthering one's education past graduation. The building is always clean and counselors are always available. Personally, I was zoned for a different school in NISD but chose to attend Clark because of all its merits and awards. It offers many and diverse clubs and sports. And perhaps most notably, it is the only school in NISD to participate in Model UN and has one of the most populated Latin clubs in the state!... Read 638 reviews

• grade A

• Students 2,851

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.01 out of 5  568 reviews

Alum: High school was a transformative phase in my life, encompassing moments of both fondness and frustration. What I liked about high school was the opportunity to explore various subjects, discover my passions, and forge lifelong friendships. Engaging teachers nurtured my curiosity and provided valuable guidance. Participating in extracurricular activities allowed me to develop leadership skills and embrace teamwork. However, what I disliked was the pressure to conform to societal expectations, the rigid academic structure, and occasional instances of bullying. The incessant emphasis on grades overshadowed genuine learning, and the cliques fostered exclusion. Despite these challenges, high school served as a pivotal chapter, shaping my growth and preparing me for the future.... Read 568 reviews

• grade A

• Students 2,610

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• Fort Sam Houston Independent School District, TX•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  155 reviews

Senior: Robert G. Cole is a military school on Fort Sam Airforce Base. Because of its nature, the school houses some of the most respectful people I have had the pleasure of talking to. The students know what is expected of them, and they take all the opportunities the school provides. Cole is constantly changing, and it adds new classes and invites students to try many academic ventures. Teachers love what they do and share their knowledge with the students well. Here at Cole, we incorporate a "flex" system, that is to say, our schedules are flexible. On certain days and during certain periods, we are allowed to visit another teacher's classroom, which allows us to study, catch up, or just hang out. Cole prepares students for college by providing college-level classes and higher-learning clubs. The education that a student receives at Cole is top-tier, and most of the students will enter college.... Read 155 reviews

• grade A

• Students 697

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Judson Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.95 out of 5  535 reviews

Senior: Judson Early College Academy is a great school for anyone who is interested in getting a preview of the college experience. From day one, everything is designed to prepare you for not only your current college endeavors but future ones as well. However, I would not recommend this school if you want to go to a large school and participate in a large variety of clubs/extracurriculars. Or if you want to explore your academic interests because there is no variety of courses available (ex. computer science, health science, debate/law). Everyone has a set course plan for all four years. Regardless, once you graduate from JECA you will receive a Highschool Diploma and an Associate's Degree in Liberal Arts! JECA is a great experience if you're involved with student activities and take your academics seriously. Despite limited clubs, many available are student run and you can create your own club too. JECA is not your typical high school, but it is still a great experience.... Read 535 reviews

• grade A

• Students 441

• Student-teacher ratio 20:1

• Northside Independent School District (San Antonio), TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.95 out of 5  604 reviews

Senior: My experience here at O'Connor High School has been like no other because this community is full of diverse people who come with brilliance and are ready to learn each and every single day. This school has given me multiple connections with students, faculty, and most importantly teachers, having these connections ensures my success here and beyond high school. I was able to be part of multiple clubs like, National Honor Society, Student Council, Science Honor Society, and many more. The resources available to the students including myself are extraordinary, but a school doesn't come without its difficulties. A couple things I would like to see change is having more one and one time with teachers so students and myself can better grasp things and the learning we do everyday within the classroom. Another thing would be opening up our students to more scholarship opportunities. The overall learning environment at this High School is amazing and will continue to grow vastly.... Read 604 reviews

• grade A

• Students 3,113

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• Boerne Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.08 out of 5  203 reviews

Alum: IBoerne High School is renowned for its exceptional educational environment, and one of the reasons for its success is the outstanding faculty, including the esteemed teacher, Salinas. Salinas is a true asset to the school, known for their passion, expertise, and dedication to their students' success. With their innovative teaching methods and unwavering commitment to academic excellence, Salinas has positively impacted countless students' lives, inspiring them to reach their full potential. Boerne High School is privileged to have Salinas as a part of its faculty, exemplifying the school's commitment to excellence in education and fostering a culture of achievement.... Read 203 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,228

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• Comal Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.16 out of 5  82 reviews

Freshman: Memorial Early College is an amazing school that gives people the amazing opportunity of advancing their education through early college, hence the name. The teachers are very caring of their students and the environment is very friendly. I am honored to be at this school as a freshman, and it's a chance that a lot of us won't waste. If you're looking to achieve a higher level of education after middle school, this is surely the place to be!... Read 82 reviews

• grade A

• Students 379

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• San Antonio Independent School District, TX•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  63 reviews

Junior: Two-time Blue Ribbon school, recognized for outstanding academic achievement, Young Women's Leadership Academy is an exceptionally well school, providing students with skills for college readiness. From a student's perspective, attending this school throughout middle school was definitely something to get used to, from all-girls, to fast paced classes, it was safe to say that nobody liked being challenged in these ways. Entering as a class of 100 girls, we now remain at 42 in high school. Each and every one of us are enrolled in a variety of different classes, and I believe that this is extremely important in personal development to discover different pathways for college. Ranging from Dual Enrollment, to Advanced Placement, to Honors classes, it's very safe to say that most of us can now appreciate the challenging work that we have done here at this school that has prepared us in so many ways on our way to college through community service hours, school involvement, and so much more.... Read 63 reviews

• grade A

• Students 588

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Randolph Field Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  126 reviews

Senior: It is a good school. While being on a military base, it is still diverse enough but we have have something in common, being a military child. And the support offered by the school and faculty themselves is excellent. Everyone is extremely supportive and there is hardly any bullying or things like you would have to worry about in a normal public school, but you still get the feel for the public school experience. With academics, the school offers dual enrollment with the University of Texas at Austin with core classes such as science, math, English, and history. They also offer Advanced Placement classes if you don't want to take the dual enrollment, and you'll still get the challenge and the credit hours for the class. The environment is super awesome, and so is school spirit. We all come together and it is a really nice place to be, especially compared to the other schools in the San Antonio area.... Read 126 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 468

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Idea Public Schools, TX•

• 6-11

• •
  Rating 4.4 out of 5  5 reviews

Works Here: This school has many clubs the scholars can choose from and they are even given the opportunity to create new clubs they are interested in so long as they get a adult sponsor to assist them. All the clubs are so fun and the kids have a great time learning new things they are interested in. I am part of the staff and have participated in the arts and crafts clubs and the kids had a great time being very creative with their ideas and expressing themselves creatively.... Read 5 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 625

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Great Hearts Academy - Texas, TX•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.43 out of 5  23 reviews

Senior: Great Hearts has an amazing, rigorous curriculum that has prepared me for life in a way few other schools could. More important than the all-honors courses, and the emphasis on the arts, both visual and theatrical, is the Human Letters program. Each student will read great books from history, ranging from philosophy, to history, even political science. They will be taught how to think and how to question the world around them, and be better people for it.... Read 23 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 492

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1

• Comal Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  448 reviews

Senior: Smithson Valley is one of the best schools in Texas. The academics are extremely competitive and so are the sports teams. Every teacher there is nice with an exception of a few older teachers. The dress code and other school policies are normal. Whenever there is an on-campus issue, the administration is always quick and discrete when handling the issue, communicating to the parents, staff, and students with transparency. ComalISD itself is run very well and the environment is uplifting and positive. The only critiques I have for Smithson Valley HS is that it does not validate its artists enough. The art department is severely underfunded and overshadowed by the many other electives offered on campus, mainly those that participate in UIL activities.... Read 448 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 3,123

• Student-teacher ratio 19:1

• North East Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.06 out of 5  506 reviews

Senior: I moved to San Antonio the summer before my junior year, and since then, I've had an excellent experience at Churchill High School. This high school has some of the most remarkable and passionate teachers I've ever met, which has enriched my high school career so much. They have a number of extracurriculars and clubs that connect students and make each person at Churchill High School feel like they are part of a special community. One thing that Churchill High School can improve on is to reduce its use of paper. Unlike other schools I've been at, Churchill High School is more traditional in their use of pen and paper, and it could possibly transition to lending laptops to each student, which could also enrich their learning experience at home.... Read 506 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 2,617

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Comal Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  431 reviews

Junior: The first thing I learned when I started school at CHS was that anyone is welcome anywhere! The staff and faculty are super welcoming to new students, previous students, and students that are currently enrolled. Everyone in Canyon does their part to keep the Canyon High reputation to a high standard. The traditions are amazing and there is so much school spirit throughout the town. Canyon High is known for its incredible sportsmanship on the field or court, humbleness, and welcoming of all who come to school. My time at Canyon High has brought so many great memories and I have made so many friends through clubs, sports, and other extracurriculars. Anyone who attends CHS would tell you that the amazing staff and teachers push you to be the best you can be, and always want you to excel in all parts of the school. The staff is very motivating and kind to every student.... Read 431 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 2,469

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Great Hearts Academy - Texas, TX•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 3.95 out of 5  19 reviews

Senior: The incredible focus on the humanities is showcased through the Senior Thesis, a year-long project of 15-20 pages and a Senior Defense. History and literature are combined into Humane Letters, where seminar takes place. Only the art and physical education courses are not considered honors courses, and the math taken most often ends with Calculus 2 by senior year. The teachers are both passionate and helpful, often answering questions outside of class. The culture of excellence and grit can be hard to measure up to, but dedicated students will find their home here. The student body is incredibly welcoming and sincere.... Read 19 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 1,400

• Student-teacher ratio 19:1