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2020 Best Public High Schools in LouisianaAbout this List

The 2020 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
    • 395 reviews
    #1 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Sophomore: At Franklin, students are given the opportunity to learn more about the world around them every single day. Despite how challenging others made out this school to be, counselors offer you millions of chances to keep your grades up, all teachers offer tutoring after school, and the environment is one of thee most accepting environments I've ever been in. No matter your identity, Ben Franklin will love you and support you!
    Read 395 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 945 Students
    • 21:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  2. Lusher Charter School

    • Orleans Parish Public Schools, LA
    • K-12
    • 219 reviews
    #2 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 219 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,740 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  3. Louisiana School for Math, Science & The Arts

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

    Senior: The Louisiana School for Math, Science, and The Arts is a public residential high school stationed in Louisiana's beautiful Northwestern State University's campus. The school bases its admissions on an application process for high school sophomores through seniors. Overall, the school is very challenging for students due to its college-level academics as well as its new environment that requires students to become independent to become successful. Because of this, the school is a great college-prep program that places an importance on academics but also excels in providing students with other opportunities in arts, community service, and student life, creating an amazing, close-knit community.
    Read 146 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 349 Students
    • 9:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  4. Baton Rouge Magnet High School

    • East Baton Rouge Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 9-12
    • 660 reviews
    #4 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Senior: BRMHS is a good school! They are challenging and push students to do their best. However it is lacking in some parts. Many teachers don’t teach, there is too much stress and chaos, and we have no fun events. For academics and readiness Baton Rouge Magnet High School is great, but for the typical fun high school dream, it is not.
    Read 660 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,499 Students
    • 19:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  5. Haynes Academy School for Advanced Studies

    • Jefferson Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 6-12
    • 287 reviews
    #5 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Junior: Haynes Academy School for Advanced Studies is an excellent school. It provides plenty of help to prepare for college, tons of clubs and sports, and plenty of opportunities to get community service and participate in the fine arts. The school band and theater are the best in the parish, and the student body is extremely diverse and committed. There is a whole community built around the school and parents there are super nice and committed. That being said, I would like to see an improvement on the old buildings, as well as a more efficient administration and better cafeteria food. Apart from that, this is an excellent school to go to!
    Read 287 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 823 Students
    • 27:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  6. Patrick F. Taylor Science & Technology Academy

    • Jefferson Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 6-12
    • 123 reviews
    #6 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 123 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 678 Students
    • 26:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  9. Caddo Parish Magnet High School

    • Caddo Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 9-12
    • 475 reviews
    #7 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Senior: I love Magnet! We have some of the smartest kids in the school, every time you turn around someone made a perfect score on the SAT and/or ACT. It is an amazing school, there is something for everyone at this school no matter your interest in any field. We have so many regionally and nationally accredited kids with their talents in drawing, vocals, orchestra, and academics (especially science). There’s such a positive attitude here and everyone is so friendly, everyone has a place at Magnet. It is literally a great school.
    Read 475 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,054 Students
    • 23:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  10. Dutchtown High School

    • Ascension Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 9-12
    • 332 reviews
    #8 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Freshman: Dutchtown High School has an amazing staff and teachers that have supported me and my education even when I didn't. They have so many great electives to chose from that can bring so many opportunities in the future. They even have a career readiness class where you can learn about work ethics, finances, and more!
    Read 332 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,333 Students
    • 18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  11. Early College Academy

    • Lafayette Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 9-12
    • 65 reviews
    #9 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Alum: I enjoyed my time at the Early College Academy! It equipped me with an associate's degree at the age of 18, allowing me to save money on all of my general studies. It was full of compassionate teachers and advisors who took care of me every step of the way. It allowed me to learn the time management and responsibility of a college student, even though I was only 14 at the time. The only thing I could say I didn't like was that I felt that I was left out of some high school experiences such as sports and pep rallies. Overall, it was a great opportunity.
    Read 65 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 249 Students
    • 19:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  12. Thomas Jefferson High School for Advanced Studies

    • Jefferson Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 9-12
    • 155 reviews
    #10 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 155 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 405 Students
    • 22:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  13. University Laboratory School

    • Public School
    • Baton Rouge, LA
    • K-12
    • 80 reviews
    #11 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 80 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,441 Students
    • 17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  14. Zachary High School

    • Zachary Community Public Schools, LA
    • 9-12
    • 300 reviews
    #12 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Senior: Zachary High School has been the number one school in the state for many years. Zachary High prepare each and every student for the next step in life, continuing education, ROTC if interested in a branch of the military, carpentry, or even welding, what ever path you take in life, you will be prepared. I am a senior and is very active and engaged around school! Proud to be student at ZHS!
    Read 300 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,586 Students
    • 17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  15. North Vermilion High School

    • Vermilion Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 9-12
    • 51 reviews
    #13 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Senior: During my four years at North Vermilion High School, I enjoy everything this school had to offer. I stayed very involved from freshman year until senior year. Most of the clubs here at North Vermilion are super involved in the community and are always willing to take another step towards better involvement. The sports at our school are decent. We started our first-ever girl's soccer team last year and this year advanced to the second round of the playoffs. During my freshman year, our softball team won the Louisiana 3a State Championship, which was a huge accomplishment for our school considering we are such a small school. Some things that I would like to see change are getting more students involved. I feel like here at North Vermilion, our students do not want to put themselves out there, so I think that that could be something that North Vermilion could work on.
    Read 51 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 663 Students
    • 20:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  16. C.E. Byrd High School

    • Caddo Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 9-12
    • 545 reviews
    #14 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Senior: I personally have loved my experience at CE Byrd. It is buzzing with life and opportunities of all kinds. Amazing teachers, although not all. Socially, it’s the way to go. There’s someone for everyone here! I say this with first hand experience. There are so many wonderful changes to find lifelong opportunities, and the school is more than happy to bring speakers, volunteer opportunities, military members, college advisors, and other great people to help you find your next step and get you involved with the community. I feel confident and prepared for college in every way.
    Read 545 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,036 Students
    • 24:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  17. New Orleans Center for Creative Arts

    • Public School
    • New Orleans, LA
    • 9-12
    • 49 reviews
    #15 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 49 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 228 Students
    • 14:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  18. Destrehan High School

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

    Senior: At DHS I have blossomed academically and socially. I will miss, yet fondly remember my days spent there. Our school has programs to fit every academic level. I have chosen the 4 year college track with most classes in either AP, honors or dual enrollment classes. Dual enrollment classes are expanding every year which is awesome for those coming up behind me...I mean...college credits BEFORE college!! So amazing!!
    I wish however that my school had more classes specifically focused on the ACT exam. In the last year I have come to realise JUST how important the ACT result is for my next four years of college. It affects my choice of college, my placement in classes, and financially....the higher the ACT score, the better scholarships colleges give you. My ACT is average, I keep trying to improve and almost at my goal but I feel my score does not reflect that I am a mostly A student. This is why I am trying to supplement with other scholarships like this one.
    Read 173 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,354 Students
    • 15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  19. Avoyelles Public Charter School

    • Public School
    • Mansura, LA
    • K-12
    • 80 reviews
    #17 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Senior: I have been at APCS since first grade. With this being my final year, I am not ready to leave. This school has a welcoming environment as well as a fantastic staff and student school body. I recommend students to receive their education from here. I have enjoyed every moment I have had with this school, and I encourage others to do the same. I formed a family throughout the years, and this is the main reason why I loved my experience. They accept you for who you are, while teaching you to become a young adult. I thank them for making me the person I am today!
    Read 80 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 741 Students
    • 20:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  22. St. Amant High School

    • Ascension Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 9-12
    • 141 reviews
    #18 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Senior: I loved my four years at St. Amant High School because the teachers and staff are amazing! We were an A school for each year that I attended the campus and I am very proud of our accomplishment. Another thing that I loved about my high school was not only did we have amazing teachers, the classes offered on campus were very much appreciated. Many college courses were offered where high school students could receive college hours and credit early on to help with the transition from high school to college. I love my school, Geaux Gators!
    Read 141 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,038 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  23. Ruston High School

    • Lincoln Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 9-12
    • 139 reviews
    #19 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Junior: Ruston High School offers many AP classes or college-credit class for you to choose from. Other than that, they let you choose your pathway, it's either TOPs or Jumpstart. Our football team is really good and the school really lifts up our spirits with the band on Bearcat Fridays. During football season, we have pep rallies almost every Friday at the end of the school day. Our cafeteria food is basically the same as other cafeteria food.
    The teachers are very caring and nice, and most of them have their sense of humor. RHS has a variety of sports and clubs you could join. Other than the basics, it offers volleyball, tennis, powerlifting (girls), and swim. For clubs, there's plenty of choices so that any student can get involved. The languages that are offered are Spanish, French, and German. RHS gives you the opportunity to graduate as an Honors Graduate. The years will end up going fast and like any other school, it's fun when you let it be fun.
    Read 139 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,341 Students
    • 15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  24. Lakeshore High School

    • St. Tammany Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 9-12
    • 138 reviews
    #20 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Senior: My experience with Lakeshore high school overall is AMAZING. People always talk about how your high school years are your best years, and they were right. Lakeshore High has given me the best high school experience ever from the students to the staff. Everyone is so friendly and out going that you feel right at home although you’re at school. And the teachers are phenomenal! They prepare everyone for success in any field of work.
    Read 138 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,035 Students
    • 23:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  25. Mandeville High School

    • St. Tammany Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 9-12
    • 217 reviews
    #21 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Senior: I overall had a great experience at Mandeville High! My years were filled with many memories and friends. I really enjoyed my time because I got involved. That is also a reason I love it; there are multiple clubs and teams to choose from so that no matter what you like to do. From cheer leading to gamer's club, you will always find somewhere to belong! I will say that I know Mandeville excels in academics because I have always had to try my absolute hardest to keep my grades where I want them to be. I am enrolled in honors courses and they do keep me on my toes. I am constantly challenged and learning something new everyday. My teachers have been an awesome support throughout high school and I know that they want me to succeed and will do anything to see me prosper.
    Read 217 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,969 Students
    • 20:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  26. Belle Chasse High School

    • Plaquemines Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 9-12
    • 127 reviews
    #22 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Senior: Belle Chasse high school is a great school, there are some things i would change about it but overall my experience has gotten better through my four years. I delt with bullying in my first two years but when i decided to speak out about it, the problem resolved. Students do there best to include you in activities when they see you on the side lines, i have met some meaningful people. So far i have had some great teachers that taught me valuable lessons in life, my favorite teachers are the art teachers, they are all so talented and have bright happy personalities. Our principle is always around and active in the things that happen in the school, she is very kind and greets you. The dress code is a uniform that consists of khakis and a polo shirt with the school emblem along with a belt. There are few times that the staff will be lean-ant about the dress code but its all for good reason.
    Read 127 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 926 Students
    • 23:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  27. Neville High School

    • Monroe City Public Schools, LA
    • 9-12
    • 171 reviews
    #23 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Senior: Neville High School is a high school that prepares students or college academically, mentally, emotionally, and physically. My experience at Neville has been great since my first day attending. The administrators were opening and accepting. The teachers are heart warming and willing to help every student that has the potential to be better than what they are when they first arrive in that particular class. If there is anything that I could change about Neville, I would take away a little of the traditional activities. I highly recommend Neville High School for every student because of the wonderful foundation that is being made.
    Read 171 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 969 Students
    • 18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  28. Negreet High School

    • Sabine Parish Public Schools, LA
    • PK, K-12
    • 10 reviews
    #24 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Senior: I love Negreet. We are a small, rural school and we are like one big happy family! The teachers and staff at Negreet are among the best to be found anywhere. Students are also very high quality. We have been rated an "A" school for the past several years. We are always at the top of our district with our test scores.
    Read 10 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 489 Students
    • 17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  29. Lafayette High School

    • Lafayette Parish Public Schools, LA
    • 9-12
    • 456 reviews
    #25 Best Public High Schools in Louisiana

    Alum: I was part of the gifted program and was so fortunate with my teachers and the structure in which I learned. Overall I can’t imagine any other place giving me the experience Lafayette High did! But that being said, the school is not large enough for the number of students it has and the existing buildings need serious TLC.
    Read 456 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,172 Students
    • 23:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  30. Sponsored

    Trinity Lutheran School

    • Private School
    • Baton Rouge, LA
    • K-8
    • 12 reviews

    Parent: Trinity Lutheran School has been a great school of choice for my daughter. When she was starting middle school we were concerned as to where we would send our daughter, until we heard of TLS (formerly BRLS). Now being there for the second year I can certainly say, the family like environment, strong academics, tutoring opportunities, and extra curricular sports & activities all make this school a great fit. There is such a Christ like / positive atmosphere. If you’re looking for a great school, TLS is it!
    Read 12 Reviews

    • 56 Students
    • 10:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  35. Sponsored

    St. Joseph's Academy

    • Private School
    • Baton Rouge, LA
    • 9-12
    • 387 reviews

    Parent: St. Joseph's Academy has been heaven sent! In a world where more emphasis is put on Fashion and other foolishness, we found a school whose purpose is not tobnb offer an excellent education, but to build string Godly young women, with a servant’s heart. Understanding that serving others has far greater rewards than anything else we can do. My daughter has blossomed and gained a sense of self and purpose in her academic career at SJA that I'm convinced will help her succeed in her collegiate endeavors.
    Read 387 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,102 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  36. Sponsored

    The Dunham School

    • Private School
    • Baton Rouge, LA
    • PK, K-12
    • 84 reviews

    Senior: I have loved my time at The Dunham School and have been so incredibly blessed! The teachers and all of the staff are here to watch us students succeed. Dunham gives kids the opportunity to branch out, try new things, and teaches each individual how to be a leader!
    Read 84 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 741 Students
    • 8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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