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2019 Best Public High Schools in LouisianaAbout 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 360
Best Schools
360 results

  1. Benjamin Franklin High School

    • Orleans Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 9-12
    • 365
    #1 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Junior: Ben Franklin High School is by far one of the best schools in the New Orleans area. While it's necessary to invest a lot of time into studying and similar things, the takeaways from such a great education are worth it. Franklin has a ton of clubs and organizations to take your mind off of schoolwork, and it's truly a diverse school where people of all cultures are accepted. As with many other public schools though, the food isn't amazing and facilities could be better. Overall, I love going to Franklin!
    Read 365 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 945 Students
    • 21:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  2. Louisiana School for Math, Science & The Arts

    • Public School
    • Natchitoches, LA
    • 10-12
    • 130
    #2 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Senior: I’ve learned a lot in the 2 years I was here. I gained many long-lasting friendship. Although our voices weren’t heard as much by the administration, there was a lot of fun! Everyone got along togetehr and it was one big family.
    Read 130 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 330 Students
    • 9:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  3. Haynes Academy School for Advanced Studies

    • Jefferson Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 6-12
    • 232
    #3 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Senior: I’ve been at Haynes since I was a sixth grader. From coming into a bigger school scared to death not knowing anything I now feel like I’ve grown more as a person. I feel mature and ready for college and that’s all accredited to my amazing teachers. They bend over backwards for everyone and that’s something that has helped me tremendously along the way. I also love the diversity of my school I feel like it has allowed me to be more open to other people’s beliefs, religions, and overall perspectives. I also love my schools counselors and band. Go jackets!
    Read 232 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 810 Students
    • 27:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  4. Sponsored

    Charlottesville Catholic School

    • Private School
    • Charlottesville, VA
    • PK, K-8
    • 7

    Parent: Our family LOVES CCS! Our two boys went through CCS and are much better young men and students as a result. The overall environment at the Catholic School is exceptional. Academically, the students are encouraged, supported, and pushed to do their very best in the classroom. The teachers do an amazing job of reaching each student individually which translates into a trusting, caring, and successful school experience for the student, the parent(s), and also the teacher. In and out of the classroom the teachers and staff also do an extraordinary job of instilling discipline, self-respect and respect for others, thoughtfulness, and a sense of community and personal responsibility. Our boys continue to excel each and every year both as students and as young men in our community and I believe those valuable traits are a direct result of the foundation, mentorship, and guidance that they received as students at the Charlottesville Catholic School.
    Read 7 Reviews

    • NG
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 337 Students
    • 15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  5. Patrick F. Taylor Science & Technology Academy

    • Jefferson Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 6-12
    • 111
    #4 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Senior: I've attended Patrick Taylor since my freshman year, and everyone has gone above and beyond to make me feel welcomed. Even though I am Deaf, no one here treats me differently or disrespectfully- not even my peers! The teachers are friendly and intelligent and the students are engaging and interesting. There is never a boring day with all the events on and off campus, especially if you're involved with any of the many extracurricular programs to choose from. Students are welcome and encouraged to break down the walls of prejudice and challenge the impossible to achieve their dreams each year.
    Read 111 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 595 Students
    • 25:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  6. Lusher Charter School

    • Orleans Parish Public Schools, LA
    • K-12
    • 203
    #5 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Senior: Diversity of student body made for creative and open environment. An excellent learning environment with resources and involved and invested teachers. There's an excellent balance of academic and creative with certificate programs available to students who'd like to pursue one area or both. Student participation is high because they feel connected to the school and supported by the staff and administration.

     I would not change schools if I had to do it all over again!
    Read 203 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,740 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  7. Caddo Parish Magnet High School

    • Caddo Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 9-12
    • 448
    #6 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Freshman: So far, Caddo Magnet High School has been a great fit for me! I’ve only attended CMHS for a semester, but I can tell that the rest of my high school experience there will be exciting, challenging, and pleasant. I really enjoy my classes, and I’ve developed relationships with my teachers and fellow students. The curriculum encourages me to think deeply, utilize foundational and new skills, and be independent. Caddo Magnet High School, just like anywhere else, has its faults, but that’s part of the deal with any school. I will be honest, if you’re looking for a school very active with sports/social events, such as football or pep rallies, Magnet might not be the place for you. However, academically and culturally, Caddo Magnet High School is at the top of Shreveport’s list! I think you’ll find that no matter who you are, or what you’re interested in, you will fit right in!
    Read 448 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,036 Students
    • 18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  10. Baton Rouge Magnet High School

    • East Baton Rouge Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 9-12
    • 629
    #7 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Senior: As a Senior, I have to say that this school is for the kids that are expressive, imaginative, and are passionate about what they want to be in society. Being a student here, at this school for 4 years is just hands down amazing! Because of the teachers piling on homework to the point where you have no social life at all. This school is the most diverse, academically challenging school in America. Again, as a Senior I am so glad that I'm leaving this school this spring.
    Read 629 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,473 Students
    • 13:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  11. Thomas Jefferson High School for Advanced Studies

    • Jefferson Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 9-12
    • 150
    #8 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Senior: I like the friendly atmosphere with the students and most teachers. One thing I would like to see change about Thomas Jefferson is the campus. The campus is very small however, that doesn't stop its academic excellence!
    Read 150 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 400 Students
    • 24:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  12. University Laboratory School

    • Public School
    • Baton Rouge, LA
    • K-12
    • 76
    #9 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Sophomore: They provide a lot of different academic paths. The IB program, AP classes, and dual enrollment classes. Their athletics are also very good and provide many opportunities for athletes to participate in their sports and for the student body to get involved with it. On top of all that the arts program has been building rapidly over the last few years, offering many choir and band concerts, a musical engaging students K-12, and a talented band and dance team that perform at many athletic events. One thing they should improve on is their preparation. Coming back from breaks, both summer and Christmas break, there’s always some problems that should have been handled before all the students arrived.
    Read 76 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,447 Students
    • 17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  14. Dutchtown High School

    • Ascension Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 9-12
    • 300
    #10 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Sophomore: Dutchtown high school is a great high school in Ascension Parish. It has decent academics and an even more successful sports program; however it isn't perfect. The buildings are noticeably old and the school is insanely overpopulated, so you're basically squeezing your way up and down stairways and hallways to make it to class. Another Fights break out quite frequently at Dutchtown and bullying is something that also occurs just as frequently (more than other schools) and the faculty do not provide much assistance other than calling the cops. If you can handle the negatives then this is the school for you, but if you don't think you can then you're better off somewhere else.
    Read 300 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,265 Students
    • 18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  15. Mandeville High School

    • St. Tammany Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 8-12
    • 199
    #11 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Alum: Mandeville High School is a great high school where kids can learn and grow into successful, functioning adults. As a recent alum, I can wholeheartedly say that MHS has given me every tool I need to be successful in the next chapter of my life. Thanks to MHS, I got accepted into my first choice university on a full tuition scholarship. The academics are good, but sometimes the teachers seem uninterested in their job. Teachers said could be more understanding, especially when a student is going through some non-school related problems. Overall, it is a very good school.
    Read 199 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,969 Students
    • 18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  16. Destrehan High School

    • St. Charles Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 8-12
    • 152
    #12 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Alum: Attending Destrehan High School was an amazing experience. The school provides its students with many opportunities and really prepares them for college and careers. Even students who are not going to college are given tools for success and receive guidance down their chosen path as well. Additionally, the school has many honors, Dual Enrollment, and Advanced Placement classes where students can receive either university or technical college credit while still in high school. Outside of the classroom, the school has many academic and cultural organizations ranging from band to beta to a gamer's club. Also, the students, faculty, and staff, despite being a large school, all feel like a part of a large family. Finally, Destrehan High School is a very safe school. There is only one entry-point, there are monthly emergency drills, and there is a full-time police officer on campus.
    Read 152 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,376 Students
    • 14:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes
  18. From K to College: Planning for School Expenses 

  19. Early College Academy

    • Lafayette Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 9-12
    • 54
    #13 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Sophomore: Early College Academy has offered me the best possible highschool experience by far. The focus on academics is strong, and the work is intense, but I feel like I'm receiving a fantastic education. The teachers are lovely people and most of them are extremely helpful and understanding. I believe the clubs have changed since the previous reviews. There are many options for clubs persuing academics or hobbies, but maybe not quite as much as other schools. ECA still does not offer sports, though. My biggest fear going into this highschool was that I wasn't going to get the traditional highschool experience that pop culture presents, but that has barely impacted me. The removal of sports has resulted in the removal of the stereotypical cliques you usually see. I wouldn't even consider any one person to be "popular" compared to the other students. I've met some of the kindest people at Early College Academy and I wouldn't trade my experience there for anything.
    Read 54 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 260 Students
    • 37:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  20. Avoyelles Public Charter School

    • Public School
    • Mansura, LA
    • K-12
    • 64
    #14 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Senior: I am currently a senior and have attended this school since kindergarten. This school has taught me leadership, service, and how to build great character. I have learned how to care for others through my participation in volunteering in my community. Avoyelles Public Charter School has also prepared me for college. I have earned 24 college credits at this school and will be starting college as a college freshman. The students here are respectful and the teachers are willing to help! I am fortunate that I will be a future alumni of such a great public school.
    Read 64 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 746 Students
    • 17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  21. Zachary High School

    • Zachary Community Public Schools, LA
    • 9-12
    • 275
    #15 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Alum: I am a 2019 graduate from Zachary High School and my experience consisted of an amazingly involved student body with teachers that sponsored many clubs and on-campus events. Both of which contributed to an unforgettable high school experience. In a classroom setting, my teachers were more than willing to answer any sort of questions about the subject of the day or advice that would help us outside of school. The administrators not only cared about our success at Zachary High School, but also our success beyond high school.
    Read 275 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,556 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  22. North Vermilion High School

    • Vermilion Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 9-12
    • 41
    #16 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Senior: I liked North Vermilion High for the atmosphere there. The students mostly all get along and the teachers there help us as much as they can. There has always been a positive vibe from the students and faculty at NVHS, and everyone there is more like a family than anything. The one thing I would like to change is that if there would be a way to bring the students closer together and have us all involved in our community around. Because our school is all about giving back but I believe that we can do more of that.
    Read 41 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 656 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  23. C.E. Byrd High School

    • Caddo Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 9-12
    • 519
    #17 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Junior: C.E. Byrd High School has been the home to some of the absolute best experiences of my life. Although it is booming in population, there is a place for every single person to find their role and thrive in it. Throughout the school, the spirit and pride of Byrd High School is so real, as every person is actively involved in cheering on every player and every student at every event. Not only am I able to meet so many new people every year, I also have been able to grow close with my teachers as well; the bonds and friendships that I have made at Byrd will definitely leave me in tears when I graduate! With so many great things about Byrd, it is truly hard to suggest any changes!
    Read 519 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,185 Students
    • 18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  26. New Orleans Center for Creative Arts

    • Public School
    • New Orleans, LA
    • 9-12
    • 45
    #18 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Senior: I think overall, this school is amazing! People overestimate the academics and forget that this school is in fact a conservatory, so I do not recommend coming here unless you have a true passion for your art. There is also a lot of disconnect between the students and administration. I think this will improve with time. The only three words I can say for this school is VOICE YOUR OPINION.
    Read 45 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 243 Students
    • 12:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  27. Northshore High School

    • St. Tammany Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 8-12
    • 192
    #19 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Senior: I love the active involvement of administration. Frank Jabbie, principle of Northshore High School invest emotionally into the success of his students and school. Additionally, Northshore High School has equipped me with a diverse courses selection to prepair me for my journey after high school. With the many different paths to choose from upon graduation, I believe I truly am prepared thanks to the faculty and student body, and most importantly our principle.
    Read 192 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,597 Students
    • 18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  28. Belle Chasse High School

    • Plaquemines Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 8-12
    • 112
    #20 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Senior: I have attended Belle Chasse High School since ninth grade. Being a freshman I was quite nervous and afraid, just like any typical freshman. However, the students of Belle Chasse High School were so friendly and loving; they welcomed me with warmth. For that I knew I would love it. I love how encouraging, competitive, and motivating we are towards one another. We stand together as a school--academically, physically, and mentally; we overcome our obstacles together.
    Read 112 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 903 Students
    • 11:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  29. Ruston High School

    • Lincoln Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 9-12
    • 129
    #21 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Parent: Great school in a great town! Teachers care about the students and their comprehension. Administration could use some beefing up, I'm not impressed with their leadership skills.
    Read 129 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,310 Students
    • 13:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  30. St. Amant High School

    • Ascension Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 9-12
    • 117
    #22 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Senior: I recently transferred from Baton Rouge High, a school notorious for being academically prestigious and extremely stressful. Going to St. Amant High, I can say that I’m the most relaxed I’ve ever been out of all the schools I’ve attended. Not only is the atmosphere laidback, but the faculty and student body are as well. I’ve met some of the nicest people here, some of them being my teachers. Speaking of which, they provide challenging but stress free coursework that has made me enjoy coming to school and learning. Thanks to St. Amant, I get to graduate in December instead of finishing up in May. I couldn’t believe it when they told me. I never would’ve been able to if I stayed at Baton Rouge High. So not only is this school a calm, friendly environment, but there are many opportunities presented here that can prepare you for college, a career, or both. St. Amant High School makes me feel good about getting an education.
    Read 117 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,970 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  31. Review Your School 

  32. Lakeshore High School

    • St. Tammany Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 8-12
    • 113
    #23 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Senior: Lakeshore Highschool is a very clean and academically driven school. I just did not enjoy some of the uneccesary rules created throughout my years like: only being allowed to use two bathrooms (i would have to walk all the way across school to use bathroom). Although unnecessary rules affect my rating, the teachers do too. Yes, Lakeshore has amazing teachers that teach even the hardest of students. But Lakeshore has teachers leaving in middle of year for maternity leave, new job, or quitting. Then, a permanent substitute steps in and does not teach the material to the students, leaving them behind in their next subjects of school. Overall, i loved Lakeshore and i will forever cherish the memories and school spirit it evoked in me.
    Read 113 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,028 Students
    • 20:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  33. Fontainebleau High School

    • St. Tammany Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 8-12
    • 213
    #24 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Senior: Fontainebleau High School is an excellent school with devoted teachers that teach the students on a higher standard than most schools in the region! Students receive a lot of help with their daily activities and enjoy the pleasant learning environment. Administration is helpful and always kind to the parents and students as well. Fontainebleau is an all around great school!
    Read 213 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,701 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  34. Lee High School

    • East Baton Rouge Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 9-12
    • 46
    #25 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Senior: I have absolutely fallen in love with this school. I have been given the opportunities to give myself a better future through the rigorous classes that are not offered in many schools. The school allows me to express myself which has guided me to make friends who are just like me. The friendships I've made in my three years here are going to last for many more. Lee High could focus on the student life a little bit more though by listening to the students and parents more. If this is executed properly, then Lee High would truly be their motto, "A school like no other."
    Read 46 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 806 Students
    • 10:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  35. Sponsored

    The Dunham School

    • Private School
    • Baton Rouge, LA
    • PK, K-12
    • 77

    Senior: I have been raised at the Dunham School because I started going to this school when I was in kindergarten. Dunham has prepared me academically, spiritually, and socially for the world that is in front of me. Dunham has been a large and important part in developing the person that I am today. I have made life-long friends at this school. I have developed a relationship with Christ at this school. I have excelled academically thanks to the wonderful faculty at this school. At Dunham, the teachers are different than those at other schools. Our teachers genuinely care about our well being, and I feel comfortable going to talk to them about anything, whether it be about my grade or my life in general. Dunham has always been a special place to me.
    Read 77 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 735 Students
    • 8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  36. Sponsored

    Fairfax Christian School

    • Private School
    • Dulles, VA
    • PK, K-12
    • 30

    Parent: It's a wonderful place. Caring teachers, challenging curriculum, excellent facilities. All of our children have attended and gone on the top universities and amazing careers. Thank you!
    Read 30 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 217 Students
    • 9:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes
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