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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 350
Best Schools
350 results

  1. Benjamin Franklin High School

    • Orleans Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 9-12
    • 362
    #1 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Parent: I am an alum and a parent of a current student. Franklin has always had a stellar reputation, but the school has changed a lot since I was a student - for the better! There is so much more support for incoming Freshmen: A mandatory study skills class, teacher office hours, peer tutoring, and a great staff of counselors. It's a much kinder, gentler school without having sacrificed quality. Teachers are inspired, students are ambitious and hardworking. It's a great environment in which to be a high achiever. Everyone is in the same boat, so there are no social outcasts who are labeled as "nerds." It also has a very active club network, which is a great way for new students to connect. I also highly recommend "Franklin Prep" for incoming Freshmen. It's a 2-week summer program that takes place the summer before school begins. It exposes students to a little taste of the academic picture while allowing them to learn their way around the school and meet some of their new classmates.
    Read 362 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 901 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  2. Louisiana School for Math, Science & The Arts

    • Public School
    • Natchitoches, LA
    • 10-12
    • 128
    #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 128 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
    • 227
    #3 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Junior: The academics here are fantastic (although challenging), and I feel thoroughly prepared for college. The teachers for the most part are okay, but some really seem to either hate their job or their students. However, many of the teachers are amazing! The students here are very diverse and all nerds who will likely welcome you with open arms. In my opinions, the facilities are the worst part of the school. Not only is the school old and small, but it's plagued with bugs, rats, and asbestos flooring. Although I make the school sound horrible, the academics are seriously worth it, and I've had an overall wonderful experience here.
    Read 227 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 788 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  4. 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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  5. Patrick F. Taylor Science & Technology Academy

    • Jefferson Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 6-12
    • 109
    #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 109 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 545 Students
    • 15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  6. Lusher Charter School

    • Orleans Parish Public Schools, LA
    • K-12
    • 199
    #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 199 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,712 Students
    • 14:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  7. Caddo Parish Magnet High School

    • Caddo Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 9-12
    • 438
    #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 438 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,067 Students
    • 14:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  10. Baton Rouge Magnet High School

    • East Baton Rouge Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 9-12
    • 620
    #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 620 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,498 Students
    • 17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  11. Thomas Jefferson High School for Advanced Studies

    • Jefferson Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 9-12
    • 148
    #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 148 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 389 Students
    • 13:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  12. University Laboratory School

    • LSU Laboratory School, LA
    • K-12
    • 74
    #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 74 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,417 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  14. Dutchtown High School

    • Ascension Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 8-12
    • 295
    #10 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Senior: I attended Dutchtown since the ninth grade, and I've always felt safe there. They have provided me with the resources I needed to improve myself, including speech classes. The teachers are helpful and invested in students' learning. There is a large library and computer center, and a student services for students to talk to counselors. They have a very large cafeteria, with the three consistent meals offered being pizza, chicken sandwiches, and hamburgers. There are a variety of clubs and sports teams, from gaming club to Spanish club and track to football. There is something for everyone here.
    Read 295 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,142 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  15. Mandeville High School

    • St. Tammany Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 8-12
    • 188
    #11 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Alum: Mandeville High School was a great experience. I had the opportunity to take lots of electives such was wood shop, forensics, and law studies. I believe that Mandeville’s elective programs set it apart from other schools. People are always interested in the forensics class I took. These electives wouldn’t be possible without the great teachers that teach them. The forensics teacher also offered an EMT and CPR class. The school did not actively seek to offer these classes; it was the teacher that wanted to make sure they were available. That teacher, and many more, applied to have their elective courses taught, and it made MHS much more of an interesting experience. With the electives I would like to see more life skills and college prep courses. I believe there are many qualified teachers there that would be willing to teach them, and it would help the students out a lot.
    Read 188 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,943 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  16. Destrehan High School

    • St. Charles Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 8-12
    • 149
    #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 149 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,466 Students
    • 13:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  19. Early College Academy

    • Lafayette Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 9-12
    • 52
    #13 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Senior: ECA is an amazing opportunity and an unbelievable experience. ECA students graduate not only with their high school diplomas, but also their Associates Degree from South Louisiana Community College. No matter what grade you're in, and if you're in their class or not, the ECA teachers are always willing to help, even after graduation. Students that graduate from ECA have a distinct advantage, they already have the experience of what college is going to be like and they know how to succeed. ECA may not have sports but there are many clubs such as: Health Club, Student Council, Law Club (which does go to competition), Yearbook Club, Science Club, and the National Honors Society.
    Read 52 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 261 Students
    • 34:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  20. Avoyelles Public Charter School

    • Public School
    • Mansura, LA
    • K-12
    • 63
    #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 63 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 734 Students
    • 15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  21. Zachary High School

    • Zachary Community Public Schools, LA
    • 9-12
    • 271
    #15 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Senior: I enjoyed going to Zachary because of the friends I made and a lot of the teachers I had. Obviously not all teachers were amazing but those not-so-good teachers helped me prepare myself for college because I taught myself instead of having everything explained to me. I encourage people to get involved in activities, there are all kinds of opportunities to show our school spirit and show off your talents. Lots of different clubs are set up for these type of opportunities and this helps you discover really good friends who you can be with throughout high school. School pride is shown at football games, pep rallies, swim meets, xc races, and so much more and even if you aren't participating in the activities, you could always support your friends. I did this and loved to support my fellow classmates. Overall I am very happy that I went to this school.
    Read 271 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,573 Students
    • 14:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  22. North Vermilion High School

    • Vermilion Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 9-12
    • 37
    #16 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Senior: My experience at North Vermilion was a great one. The teacher, the students, faculty and staff, and parents and the community were second to none. Students and their interests are always put first. This school has definitely prepared me for college with the work load that is placed on the students and because of the Dual Enrollment classes taken through the local colleges. Being at North Vermilion is like a Family atmosphere. The faculty and staff are always making sure the student are prepared and well taken care. Our Principal won Principal of the Year for the Whole State of Louisiana. That is quite an accomplishment and shows that our principals hard work and determination has paid off. I’m so appreciative to have been a part of this great school. I would not have wanted to go any where else. I love my school
    Read 37 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 628 Students
    • 14:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  23. C.E. Byrd High School

    • Caddo Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 9-12
    • 515
    #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 515 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,168 Students
    • 19:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  26. New Orleans Center for Creative Arts

    • Public School
    • New Orleans, LA
    • 9-12
    • 42
    #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 42 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 243 Students
    • 4:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  27. Northshore High School

    • St. Tammany Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 8-12
    • 189
    #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 189 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,629 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  28. Belle Chasse High School

    • Plaquemines Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 8-12
    • 111
    #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 111 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 863 Students
    • 15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  29. Ruston High School

    • Lincoln Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 9-12
    • 128
    #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 128 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,315 Students
    • 10:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  30. St. Amant High School

    • Ascension Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 8-12
    • 113
    #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 113 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,009 Students
    • 15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  32. Lakeshore High School

    • St. Tammany Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 8-12
    • 108
    #23 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Senior: My experience at Lakeshore High School for the past four years has been life changing. Lakeshore High has given me the tools for life, its has made me a more confident person, and has given me the knowledge I need to know before I go college. The teachers and administration at Lakeshore High really motivate all the students to be involved, which makes the school feel like a family. If you are a student at Lakeshore you know the Alma Mater by heart, and you show up to every friday night football game. If you aren't going out and supporting all your fellow Lakeshoreans when you can you aren't doing high school right. If you don't like sports, go support the Talented Theatre Program they always have some sort of play going on and not to mention they are fantastic. But, overall my experience at Lakeshore has been magnifient and would not have wanted to spend my four years of high school anywhere else. Go Titans!
    Read 108 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,057 Students
    • 15:1 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
    • 1,667 Students
    • 14:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  34. Robert E. Lee High School

    • East Baton Rouge Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 9-12
    • 42
    #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 42 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 461 Students
    • 7:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  35. Sponsored

    Norfolk Academy

    • Private School
    • Norfolk, VA
    • 1-12
    • 130

    Parent: Norfolk Academy provided an extraordinary educational journey for my two children, fueling their curiosity and inspiring them to explore new avenues that they might not have discovered without the incredible teachers and coaches at this school. My oldest child, who came in sixth grade, now studies engineering at an Ivy League university; he particularly loved the robotics team, as well as soccer, swimming, and crew teams. My youngest child, who is a senior at NA, came in first grade, and she has developed a passion for medicine and health, largely through the school's Global Health Fellows program and the Medical Scholars program.
    Read 130 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,203 Students
    • 11:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  36. 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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