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2019 Best Public High Schools in FloridaAbout this List

The 2019 Best Public High Schools ranking is based on rigorous analysis of key statistics and millions of reviews from students and parents using data from the U.S. Department of Education. Ranking factors include state test scores, college readiness, graduation rates, SAT/ACT scores, teacher quality, and high school ratings. Read more on how this ranking was calculated.

1 – 25 of 970
Best Schools
970 results

  1. Pine View School

    • Sarasota County Schools, FL
    • 2-12
    • 300
    1 Best Public High Schools in Florida

    Parent: Pine View is sometimes criticized for lacking diversity, and it one key reason why this school isn't consistently ranked #1. That's because the school is a true meritocracy where your character, intelligence, discipline and hard work are important and ethnicity is not. Getting into this school is easier than staying in so parent engagement and participation is just as important as the student's.

    Like any public school where teachers are protected by an omnipotent union, there are a lot of them that shouldn't be teaching, but are tolerated because the union forces the admin to do so. Parents must navigate their kids through the bad which is an unfortunate reality. However, the good ones will make you forget the bad because the good ones are really, really good.

    When graduates come back to talk to current students a year or two later, the universal comment is about how easy college was for them because they were so well prepared at Pine View.
    Read 300 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,175 Students
    • 17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  2. A.D. Henderson University School & FAU High School

    • Public School
    • Boca Raton, FL
    • K-12
    • 55
    2 Best Public High Schools in Florida

    Senior: This charter school gives students an equal opportunity to apply and offers nice financial aid services. It is centered around academics and pushes the students very hard. The school pays for the students to take a full load of college courses from 10-12 grade. If you're determined to get ahead in your career and academics, this school is perfect for you and will save you a lot of money during the process! They provide great opportunities in research and other criteria. The only downside is the limited sport options and an untraditional high school experience, including a small prom, winter formal, etc.
    Read 55 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,101 Students
    • 23:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  3. Suncoast Community High School

    • Palm Beach County School District, FL
    • 9-12
    • 569
    3 Best Public High Schools in Florida

    Senior: This school is academically rigorous and offers many opportunities to students to save money in college by offering AP, AICE, and Dual Enrollment courses. Help is always offered at this school. The band is amazing. Industry certifications are also offered with technical courses that help enhance resumes. Be sure to do your homework while getting enough sleep and you should do well at this school! Good Luck!
    Read 569 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,517 Students
    • 18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  4. Sponsored

    Roanoke Catholic School

    • Private School
    • Roanoke, VA
    • PK, K-12
    • 52

    Senior: Roanoke Catholic is a school that teaches students belong the classroom and prepares them for either college. In the past years, 100 percent of Catholic seniors have attended college and this year the seniors have received over 2.5 million in scholarships. I started Roanoke Catholic two years ago and it was a big change coming from public school. In public schools you could slide by without doing your homework, but at Roanoke Catholic all work is required and graded as a test grade. Roanoke Catholic does not let you fall through the cracks. I also must say the food is outstanding!!
    One thing I really did not like were the uniforms. In public school you basically wore what you want, but not in private school. My first year the gentlemen had to wear a shirt and tie during the winter and in the summer a polo shirt with the school’s logo and khaki pants or shorts. This year they changed the dress code to where gentlemen could wear the polo shirt and khaki pants all year around.
    Read 52 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 483 Students
    • 11:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  5. School for Advanced Studies - South

    • Miami-Dade County Public Schools, FL
    • 11-12
    • 223
    4 Best Public High Schools in Florida

    Junior: I believe if you are a student that is striving for academic excellence, then SAS South is the place for you. SAS has all the resources to make your college application as strong as possible. The size of the school is great (medium size classes) but small school, so it becomes like a family, including faculty. School lunch is the same as in any public school, not bad but always can improve. There are a good amount of clubs one can join and there are several activities throughout the year to build school spirit and involvement. The freedom students get here being on a college campus and going to school like college students is a unique experience that helps its students develop and make a smooth transition from high school to college.
    Read 223 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 224 Students
    • 19:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  6. West Shore Junior/Senior High School

    • Brevard Public Schools, FL
    • 7-12
    • 229
    5 Best Public High Schools in Florida

    Senior: Academics and college readiness were amazing! Multiple Advanced Placement classes are offered as well as Dual Enrollment opportunities. Administration also takes the time to fill out the Bright Futures application with the students to make sure that they receive all of the aid that they qualify for. With that being said the food and facilities could definitely use an upgrade from their current condition. The water pipes and AC are in desperate need of repair.
    Read 229 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 957 Students
    • 18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  7. Stanton College Preparatory

    • Duval County Public Schools, FL
    • 9-12
    • 693
    6 Best Public High Schools in Florida

    Junior: My three years at Stanton College Preparatory have been increasingly challenging, but also a blast! There are so many academic opportunities provided here outside of the AP and IB curriculum, such as the NACLO qualifying examinations, and a multiple successful sports teams. The high level of student involvement is definitely visible, even when extracurriculars aren't in session. The population is made up of high-achieving, motivated students, and while that definitely increases academic pressure between peers, it also promotes success and the development of strong time management and grit.
    Read 693 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,508 Students
    • 19:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  10. Cypress Bay High School

    • Broward County Public Schools, FL
    • 9-12
    • 1,370
    7 Best Public High Schools in Florida

    Junior: I love Cypress Bay High School! This high school teaches students how to be independent and prepares them for the real world. There are so many AICE classes, Cambridge classes, along with AP course to choose from. Cypress also has a wide variety of clubs, after-school activities and sports programs for their student to take full advantage of. College Advisors are always there to help students through the college application process and provide them with guidance.
    Read 1,370 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 4,601 Students
    • 23:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  11. Alexander W. Dreyfoos Jr. School of the Arts

    • Palm Beach County School District, FL
    • 9-12
    • 482
    8 Best Public High Schools in Florida

    Alum: This school has given me so many good memories. Dreyfoos is a huge school and the teachers are super fun and loving. You will make so many friends and so many connections, keep in contact with your favorite teachers because they will help you out as much as they can in the future! I really miss Dreyfoos and the whole atmosphere of the school spirit. This school is completely different from other public schools. It was an honor to graduate from this school. Take advantage of your resources while you can, because this school has ALL of the resources and connections. :)
    Read 482 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,400 Students
    • 19:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  12. School for Advanced Studies - Wolfson

    • Miami-Dade County Public Schools, FL
    • 11-12
    • 158
    9 Best Public High Schools in Florida

    Alum: School for Advanced Studies (SAS) was an experience like no other. It was not your "typical" high school environment, it was a small, intimate place that provided a variety of opportunities. Because of the small population, teachers were accessible to the students and everybody had a chance to get to know their classmates. I was fortunate enough to receive the opportunity to get an Associates Degree, for free, while finishing up high school. Moreover, the teachers at the school cared about their job, they went out of their way to ensure that the students would pass the Advanced Placement exams. They did not simply lecture every class, but instead gave a diverse amount of assignments that could cater to several learning styles. The only thing that I feel can change, is the amount of classes that the school offers. The school only offers three-four AP classes a school year, they should offer at least six-seven AP classes, to offer a broader education.
    Read 158 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 112 Students
    • 28:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  14. Mast Academy

    • Miami-Dade County Public Schools, FL
    • 7-12
    • 262
    10 Best Public High Schools in Florida

    Senior: Mast Academy is a one of a kind school. It's located right on the beach with the most beautiful views and amazing location. It is very interactive and you are likely to go kayaking, paddleboarding, and even snorkeling in the beach! Most teachers are very helpful and informative, wanting their students to pass the class and understand what is being taught. You will definitely be prepared for college. One of my favorite things about the school is that we don't have uniform so I can express myself through fashion! There are many clubs and groups to join tailored to all interests. I've had a wonderful time learning at Mast Academy.
    Read 262 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,142 Students
    • 18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  15. Archimedean Upper Conservatory (AUC)

    • Miami-Dade County Public Schools, FL
    • 9-12
    • 92
    11 Best Public High Schools in Florida

    Junior: Archimedean is definitely not a school for everyone, but this is exactly what makes it special. Archimedean is a school where faculty members truly care about your future, and their tireless work is highly evident of this. Students learn to manage their time and receive excellent college preparation. In regards to the classes, the Archimedean curriculum is definitely different than most, which is exactly what makes it an effective and engaging curriculum. From Euclidean Geometry to Political Philosophy to Logic to Discrete Math to Greek Language the classes offered at Archimedean ensure that students receive a well-rounded education. At times, the workload might seem unbearable, but this is for our own good- we learn to manage our time wisely and to pace ourselves accordingly. As a junior, I wouldn’t be anywhere else.
    Read 92 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 280 Students
    • 9:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  16. College Academy at Broward College

    • Broward County Public Schools, FL
    • 9-12
    • 735
    12 Best Public High Schools in Florida

    Junior: My experience at broward college has been overall a great one! To be honest I was really afraid of what I was going into, not having sufficent resources or guidelines to what step I should take next. Luckily I have always had the opportunity to speak to the advisors there and hear different pathways I can take to make my career a successful one! At the college we have lots of great resources that help contribute to our success! For example, the college offers calculators which many of the math classes requires some being those of a specific type and which are pricey. There are also tutoring sessions where students can receive help. Something that I would definitely change at browsers college would be how much students will have to often wait to speak to and advisor even for the most minimum situation! I remember last time I visited I waited an hour to ask a question! The college is overall very resourceful and definitely a GREAT one!
    Read 735 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 463 Students
    • 42:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  19. Coral Reef Senior High School

    • Miami-Dade County Public Schools, FL
    • 8-12
    • 1,311
    13 Best Public High Schools in Florida

    Junior: Coral Reef Senior High School has definitely been a wild ride for me. I have met many people of different cultures and ethnic groups, which I feel has really shaped my character and image on human beings. This school is one of the best High schools in the U.S., and I can say it really is. The student life is alive and well filled! There are the rare teachers that you question their existence, but there is always that one teacher. Ever language arts teacher I've had has really inspired me to express myself. My High School experience is memorable, but I just can't wait for my real life experience to begin.
    Read 1,311 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 3,367 Students
    • 25:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  20. Edgewood Junior/Senior High School

    • Brevard Public Schools, FL
    • 7-12
    • 304
    14 Best Public High Schools in Florida

    Senior: Edgewood is an amazing school that has really prepared me for college. All of the teachers want the best for you and push you to do your best in all of your classes. The teachers will also work with you to make sure you are prepared for every test and fully understand the material. The sports teams are not the best, but some of my closest friends have come from the sports I have played! It is very easy to become involved with clubs and sports, because everyone is so welcoming. I am so thankful for the experience that I have had at Edgewood Jr Sr High School.
    Read 304 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 949 Students
    • 18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  21. Florida State University School

    • Public School
    • Tallahassee, FL
    • K-12
    • 476
    15 Best Public High Schools in Florida

    Junior: I have totally enjoyed every aspect of college. I am in the Honors Program at FSU, in a fraternity, on the Deans List, play Inter-Fraternal Basketball, have leadership roles in my fraternity, volunteer community service hours, and active in several clubs and Honor Societies. I am double majoring in Finance and Risk Management, which FSU is known for excellent programs. FSU has great professors and abundant resources available in the career center. The campus layout and Tallahassee is also a reason I chose FSU. Go Noles!
    Read 476 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,731 Students
    • 14:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  22. Boca Raton Community High School

    • Palm Beach County School District, FL
    • 9-12
    • 753
    16 Best Public High Schools in Florida

    Senior: Boca Raton Community High School is absolutely the greatest school North of the South Pole! Being involved in Student Government, Varsity sports, and multiple clubs on campus, I have learned that this school is run with immense passion and endless support. Boca High makes it a priority that each student plays a part in the school community and is not left alone. Administration ensures confidence in their students body, along with their faculty. I am honored to call Boca High home.
    Read 753 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 3,303 Students
    • 18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  23. School for Advanced Studies - Homestead

    • Miami-Dade County Public Schools, FL
    • 11-12
    • 118
    17 Best Public High Schools in Florida

    Senior: School of Advance studies offers more free times for students to develop their own skills and engage in extra curricular activities to fulfill their resume. Balancing just the right amount of time for student to get involve and not overwhelming individuals with workloads. Overall I really have no complaint since the school’s schedule design is just perfect for its dual-enrollment purpose without stressing out the student and pressuring their performance.
    As a student I am grateful to be part of the program, no other highschool really understands the value of giving students personal time to develop their resume or volunteering. Sometimes the workloads are challenging but at the same time not as unreasonable burdening as usual highschool workload.
    Read 118 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 113 Students
    • 38:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  26. School for Advanced Studies - North

    • Miami-Dade County Public Schools, FL
    • 11-12
    • 178
    18 Best Public High Schools in Florida

    Senior: I have spent a whole school year at school for advanced studies, a school that most students fear! Throughout my time in this school I have learned to push myself and I have learned to accept failure. This school really pushed me to be the best that I can be academically. I wouldn't change a thing about this school, I just hope that it stays the way it is, and keeps giving students like myself an opportunity to get their Associate's Degree right after their High school graduation!
    Read 178 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 104 Students
    • 35:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  27. iPrep Academy

    • Miami-Dade County Public Schools, FL
    • PK, K-12
    • 91
    19 Best Public High Schools in Florida

    Niche User: The school is great! It definitely prepares you for college. If you're a student who excels at learning/studying independently, this is the school for you. However, if that's not your way of learning, there is help if you need it -- you're better off asking your friends in upper level classes, though. There are many different clubs - Key Club, NHS, NEHS, SSHS, Robotics, etc - but they usually do the same activities every year. School lunch is the same 'ole Miami-Dade County Public Schools lunch. They also offer pre-packaged sushi, lemonade/tea, and chips for extra money. Overall, what sets iPrep apart from other public high schools is the internship opportunity offered during your junior and senior year. Students intern all over the city and the upperclassmen are allowed to leave school at 12:15pm.
    Read 91 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 679 Students
    • 17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  28. New World School of the Arts

    • Miami-Dade County Public Schools, FL
    • 9-12
    • 267
    20 Best Public High Schools in Florida

    Alum: I was in the vocal performance program at NWSA and I couldn't be prouder to have been a fighting pigeon! New World is not your typical high school, there are so many talented individuals with so many different passions every corner you turn. The teachers there really care about you, your talents, your ambitions and at the end of the day, they want you to succeed. Before I attended high school I had such a hard time with being bullied and being made fun of. I use to hate going to school. I would try anything and everything to excuse myself out of school. Luckily, New World NEVER had any of that! I not once experienced anything but love and happiness from every single individual at that school, even from the people I didn't know! I will always speak highly of my high school because they truly made going to school and incredible experience!
    Read 267 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 504 Students
    • 18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  29. Terra Environmental Research Institute

    • Miami-Dade County Public Schools, FL
    • 9-12
    • 654
    21 Best Public High Schools in Florida

    Senior: I have been attending TERRA Environmental Research Institute for the past four years. I can honestly say i have enjoyed my time at TERRA. Not only do the teachers push you to excel in all your classes they prepare us for college making our transition easier for when we graduate. Many students at terra have high career goals and the teacher try to make them possible in every way. TERRA is not only an academic school we also have many clubs, sports, and activities for all kinds of students. I am enrolled in the Band program. It is a great program and our Band Director is amazing. Hehas polished the band program in the last two years. TERRA tries their best to incorporate Science, Technology, English, Arts, and Math throughout every single course you take. TERRA is a magnet school with three academies. I am in the biomedical academy and it has pushed me one step closer to my career goal of being a Nurse Practitioner (ARNP). I am proud to call myself a TERRA student. Go Wolves!
    Read 654 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,826 Students
    • 27:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  30. Plant High School

    • Hillsborough County Public Schools, FL
    • 9-12
    • 380
    22 Best Public High Schools in Florida

    Senior: It was a incredible experience! I truly believe Plant High School prepared me to excel in college. They surround you with teachers who truly care about your future and to teach you about the subject. Also, Plant High School has the best of the best students and you are always competing with them in education, sports, or art. I love my 4 years here and I wouldn’t trade it for anything. I have made so many connections with friends and teachers. I think Mr. Bush (principal) and the administrators are welcoming and trying to start a relationship with the students and help them in their lives too.In all honesty, I don’t think Plant should anything. There’s a reason why we are 1 in our county for education and sports. I will always bleed that black and gold (school’s colors). “PLANT PLANT PLANT”!
    Read 380 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,389 Students
    • 20:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  32. McFatter Technical College and High School

    • Broward County Public Schools, FL
    • 9-12
    • 375
    23 Best Public High Schools in Florida

    Senior: When I first came into this school, I was skeptical thinking I wasn't going to enjoy it. I didn't know anybody, however, as time went on I came to meet amazing friends and created a strong group that couldn't happen in any other high school. I'm glad to have chosen this with amazing teachers and a good but competitive student body. The communication could be a little better however, but overall a great high school experience!
    Read 375 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 605 Students
    • 6:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  33. Design & Architecture Senior High School

    • Miami-Dade County Public Schools, FL
    • 9-12
    • 235
    24 Best Public High Schools in Florida

    Senior: This year has been a challenge. College applications and the DASH workload can often be tiring. However, there is not a better high school in Miami to attend than my school. The faculty and environment are outstanding! All my teachers encourage me to push my work to the next level. The principal and counselor doors are open 24/7. I truly love how supportive everyone is including the generators.
    Read 235 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 511 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  34. State College of Florida Collegiate School

    • Manatee County School District, FL
    • 6-12
    • 109
    25 Best Public High Schools in Florida

    Sophomore: State College of Florida offers many different wellness and education resources to make the perfect college experience! When I first came to SCF I became aware of something called the Student Wellness Club. This is a club dedicated to keeping students healthy. With this club all, all you need to do is turn in a form with logged activities at the end of the semester to receive $150 in SCF bookstore money. It's the equivalent of being paid to be active! SCF also has numerous educational resources such as the ARC. The ARC is a building filled with tutors dedicated to helping you learn. SCF has helped me succeed in my classes and has given me a great college experience.
    Read 109 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 501 Students
    • 26:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  35. Sponsored

    Our Lady of Mercy School

    • Private School
    • Potomac, MD
    • PK, K-8
    • 1

    High School Senior: The teachers allow for growth and nourishment.
    Read 1 Review

    • NG
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 226 Students
    • 9:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  36. Sponsored

    BASIS Independent McLean

    • Private School
    • McLean, VA
    • PK, K-12
    • 8

    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 8 Reviews

    • NG
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 375 Students
    • 7:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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