2024 Best Public High Schools in Michigan

• Washtenaw Independent School District, MI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.99 out of 5  90 reviews

Sophomore: Besides the fact that WIHI a FREE IB school, the diversity and inclusion it has is also one of the best aspects about being a student there. There are students from many different countries, ethnic backgrounds, and identities, and this creates a more socially pleasant environment that allows each individual student to learn and grow with their peers. In regards to the curriculum, WIHI makes sure to challenge its students with frequent assessments, but at the same time gives many no-homework weekends, as well as multiple opportunities to ask teachers for additional instruction. WIHI also has many events spread throughout the year, such as EDJI day (equity, diversity, justice, and inclusion), field day, and career day, along with more common activities such as Homecoming and Prom. One of my favorite aspects about WIHI is the unique curriculum it offers, with classes such as psychology, global politics, ATL (approaches to learning). Overall, I am really enjoying my time at WIHI!... Read 90 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 559

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Oakland Schools, MI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.03 out of 5  658 reviews

Freshman: My experience as a freshmen at IA West has been nothing short of life-changing! I've grown so much as a person not only due to my amazing teachers, classmates, and administration, but the overall learning atmosphere this school has provided for me. Students here are much more academically-driven than at a regular high school, and being on the path to earn an IB diploma has incentivized all of us to continue to work hard and appreciate the opportunity we have to attend this amazing school. I'm able to connect with my peers much more than I was in middle school, meet new people and learn about new cultures, and be a part of some incredible advocacy clubs and teams! This year was the year my parents told me about their upcoming divorce. Despite being thrown into a spiraling state of depression and feeling helpless, I knew I could find solace and comfort at school, whether it be with my friends, teachers, or upperclassmen.... Read 658 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,468

• Student-teacher ratio 1468:1

• Novi Community School District, MI•

• PK, 8-12

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  518 reviews

Senior: Novi High School is competitive. From the obligation of being 2 grades above in math to feel at least average to the constant feeling, you need to do more. But I think the worst part and the part I wish have changed is the constant skepticism from some of the staff. From merely just asking for a mask, you receive distaining glares from the admin. I throw up on my period, and I get that it's gross but that doesn't warrant treating me like I have a plague. I understand the better safe than sorry policy, but it truly hurts when a counselor straight-up tells a student that they can't take a class because they don't think they can do it. I mean at least approach it in a different way. However despite these things, and how bad the bathrooms are (they keep spending money on the football team stadium but the bathrooms need serious help ), I think the other people (teachers, janitors, a lot of kids) in there are great. I like how we start later (8), and how the library is right next door!... Read 518 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,108

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• Troy School District, MI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.1 out of 5  400 reviews

Junior: During my three years at Troy High School, I have received a lot of rigorous courses, made new friends, and, most importantly, gained new experiences. However, like all high school experiences, there have been many ups and downs. Firstly, I would like to address how many people exaggerate how academically challenging the coursework is. The counselors at Troy High help you choose the classes that are right for you--a student's perfect balance of challenge and personal life. However, many students think that the course rigor is demanding because of the mindset that many Troy High students have: Choose the most challenging classes and the most excruciating extracurriculars. As long as this harsh expectation does not sway one, students will find that Troy High is a great school.... Read 400 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,098

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• Ann Arbor Public Schools, MI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  345 reviews

Alum: My first two years were somewhat marred as covid-19 shook the world. I believe that my school did the best that it could in a tough situation and while it was difficult to feel supported and not alone in those times, I still got a quality education. Junior and senior years were much better, mostly because I had found a learning community that made me excited to learn. My school offering the International Baccalaureate program is one of the best things that happened to me as a learner. I was challenged academically, prepared for higher learning, and thoroughly engaged in learning and projects that interested me. I am also very grateful that my high school is privileged enough to support the arts enthusiastically even allowing me to receive a scholarship to go on an international tour with my orchestra. Lastly, my school is very competitive athletically and supports a wide range of sports including my lesser known sport- crew.... Read 345 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,621

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• Northville Public Schools, MI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  371 reviews

Senior: My overall experience as a senior at Northville High School: Northville High School has great teachers which many options for classes, sports, and clubs. There are even options to take intern, and co-op classes and also online classes. I am taking a broadcasting intern at the WHFR radio station and although I drive 45 min, it has been a great experience. The Northville high school building is nice with many facilities including a relatively new weight room. There are many opportunities and overall the atmosphere is pretty good. The people are friendly; it is a pretty close knit community and not too hard to make friends. The only thing that isn't that great is the lunch food. They mainly offer junk food or deeply fried vegetable and the healthy options (salads) are not very good. Overall, Northville High School is a great learning environment and I have had a great experience.... Read 371 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,459

• Student-teacher ratio 21:1

• Birmingham Public Schools, MI•

• PK, 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.08 out of 5  266 reviews

Senior: Overall, I think Groves is a great school along with the entire Birmingham schooling district. However, like any institution there are pros and cons. Groves is highly favorable when it comes to academics and adversity as far as the selection of courses you can choose from to the clubs & activities they offer. I have had the opportunity to try a variety of courses and clubs that I thoroughly enjoyed. My time as a Groves falcon has been nothing, but bitter sweet. Apart from the highly favorable courses and activities, I do feel as though not many teachers value the students well being and learning capabilities. I have watched many students struggle, I being one of them. Simply because they couldn’t adapt to the way the teachers taught the subject. Therefore I feel that it is only fair that the teachers accommodate or meet the students half way when it comes to their different ways of learning the specific material. With that being said, ultimately Groves is a great school.... Read 266 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,147

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Okemos Public Schools, MI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.02 out of 5  252 reviews

Other: When I went there, I was always treated well by peers, teachers, and upperclassmen. Okemos offered a plethora of things to do, from extra-curriculars on dealing with sports, to educational ones, about biology, business, or life. Furthermore, the curriculum they were giving was offered advanced levels, and displayed their notion that students have personalized schedules, that suits them for their future. Also, I always felt safe and accommodated, as a Muslim, I never had to suffer prejudice because of the kind character of everyone around me. Not only that, but me needing to pray was never frowned upon, but accepted welcomingly, whenever I needed a room, they offered one for me without hesitation, almost as if we were all one family. It wasn't just that, there was a sense of connectivity amongst one another, and a feeling of security the moment you walked in, as if you weren't being judged. Okemos High School and the people in it, were something I could never forget, nor do I want to.... Read 252 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,433

• Student-teacher ratio 19:1

• Ann Arbor Public Schools, MI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.38 out of 5  107 reviews

Alum: Community highschool was a safe haven for me. I have struggled with school (from dyslexia), but that didn’t stop me from thriving there. The teachers and faculty fostered a safe environment to learn in the best way for your own development. Going to community led me to be independent, motivated, and capable of handling several thing at once with wonderful coping mechanisms. The connections between the students and teachers builds an understanding and trust, teaching us how to communicate efficiently and professionally. I would recommend this school to everyone!... Read 107 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 518

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Ann Arbor Public Schools, MI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  362 reviews

Senior: Pioneer is an alright school. It can be pretty competitive and that competitiveness comes with the immense amount of opportunities you have to strengthen your academic portfolio here. With AP classes and honors programs, you have many opportunities to grow as a student. However, speaking from my personal experience as an African-American student, Pioneer lacks diversity in its student body and its teachers. I could count the amount teachers of color at Pioneer on one hand, and this is something that needs to change. It’s important to have strong representation for all students.... Read 362 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,868

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• Grand Rapids Public Schools, MI•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  254 reviews

Senior: Overall, I had a positive experience at City. I attended City from 7th through 12th grade, and will be graduating in just a week! City is certainly a very challenging learning environment. The classes are quite rigorous, partially due to the IB nature of the school. The IB element, though often challenging and confounding, does provide a comprehensive curriculum that covers more that what some schools might. The workload that City has, however, is very challenging, and I would argue unnecessary and unproductive at times. There were times at City in which I definitely struggled to stay afloat both academically and personally, and I think the workload was a large contributor to this. In the end, though, I am happy that I went though this, as it allowed me to overcome this academic hardship and further myself as a person. The peer and staff relationship at City is great, and I always found myself surrounded by many smart and talented people. City isn't for everyone, but it can be great.... Read 254 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 907

• Student-teacher ratio 22:1

• Ann Arbor Public Schools, MI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  344 reviews

Junior: Skyline is a school with diverse opportunities for students and the administration prides themselves for that, however the administration is so far removed from the student body, they don't understand the needs of the student population. This burden then falls upon the teachers. The teachers at Skyline are incredibly caring and connect with their students to make sure every student is learning what they need, regardless of how they get their. In addition, Skyline teachers provide support for student mental health more than administration and counselling. I've been screamed at until I cried by an administrator because I wanted to study instead of attending a frivolous pep rally the week before the AP exams, but several teachers have opened up their rooms to me during lunch so I can complete work and study in peace and quiet or even just take a mental break while I eat my lunch. I am incredibly grateful for the teachers because they make this school function.... Read 344 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,323

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Bloomfield Hills Schools, MI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.15 out of 5  110 reviews

Alum: As a senior at Bloomfield Hills High School, my journey has been nothing short of transformative and unforgettable. The past four years have been a whirlwind of growth, self-discovery, and memorable experiences. From the first day, I felt the welcoming spirit of the school community, with teachers and staff dedicated to our success. The diverse range of clubs, sports teams, and extracurricular activities allowed me to explore my passions and make lifelong friends. As graduation approached, a mix of nostalgia and excitement filled the air. Looking back, I cherish the late-night study sessions, cheering at football games, and the meaningful conversations with teachers who inspired me to dream big. Bloomfield Hills High School has prepared me for the next chapter of my life, leaving me with cherished memories and a sense of pride in being a Black Hawk. I'm grateful for the experiences that have shaped me into the person I am today.... Read 110 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,715

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Rochester Community School District, MI•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  307 reviews

Sophomore: WOW. I'm a sophomore currently attending and the experience is awesome. Amazing teachers and classmates, lots of diversity, they help to make sure you're succeeding, and if I could give a higher rating than five stars for sports I would. So far, I've made a lot of friends from many different and diverse groups that will respect you for who you are. And the teachers, for the most part, are witty and fun. If I were to have only one complaint it would be the whole diversity equity and inclusion thing, all an implementation of critical race theory. But that's a district-wide issue. I LOVE this place wholeheartedly, and I would greatly consider giving back when I graduate from THE Rochester Adams High. GO HIGHLANDERS!... Read 307 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,522

• Student-teacher ratio 23:1

• Chippewa Valley Schools, MI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.4 out of 5  163 reviews

Senior: The International Academy of Macomb taught me many lessons that I will use throughout my life. The school itself has an atmosphere like none other as it feels like one big family. Due to the size of the school being about 400 people total, everyone gets to know each other well, especially with the relationships with the teachers. The connections we make will help ease our future endeavors as everyone will support you. The school is also very diverse with lots of cultures as it is the largest magnet school in Michigan. Diversity is important in a school as this will bring different cultures and ethnicities together overall strengthening the student body. Some improvements that the school should make are the various items that the school uses its budget to buy. For example wooden flooring on a section of the school rather than the entire school and locks on doors that become useless. Overall, the school is excellent with the best academics and diverse culture. I'm happy I attended!... Read 163 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 445

• Student-teacher ratio 74:1

• Birmingham Public Schools, MI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.99 out of 5  235 reviews

Senior: My former high school was exceptional due to its outstanding academic curriculum, vibrant extracurricular program, supportive community, excellent facilities and resources, and culture of excellence and achievement. The school provided a challenging yet supportive learning environment that catered to students' diverse interests and abilities, as well as offering a wide range of courses and Advanced Placement options. The extracurricular activities provided opportunities to build relationships, develop skills, and enhance resumes. The school community was inclusive, and students felt accepted and valued. The facilities were state-of-the-art, and resources allowed students to maximize their experiences. The school celebrated academic, athletic, and artistic accomplishments, motivating students to strive for their best. Overall, the school prepared students not only for higher education but also for life beyond the classroom.... Read 235 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,248

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Grosse Pointe Public School System, MI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.08 out of 5  294 reviews

Senior: Grosse Pointe South is a competitive high school that prepares its students realistically for their future. South offers almost all AP courses, as well as has online resources to take classes not offered, and therefore a diverse course selection. The teachers at South do their best to foster a professional, inclusive, and safe environment in their classrooms to ensure their students are all receiving the best education they can. The schools' honor code is enforced with clear, reasonable rules, including a late policy and an integrity statement us students agree to. The environment among students at South is competitive, especially in more rigorous courses. Though South does not rank their students or announce Valedictorians, students still do their best in school as well as out to become a hard-working, accomplished high school student. The Blue Devil spirit is strong due to having a direct "rival", Grosse Pointe North. Sports of all kinds are promoted for students to support.... Read 294 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,305

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• Forest Hills Public Schools, MI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.14 out of 5  91 reviews

Senior: My time spent at Northern High School has overall been very good. The school is structured nicely, featuring newly renovated spaces with excellent resources for the innovative project based learning programs the school offers. All the classes I’ve had were based in substance, and generally the right amount of challenging for me to learn. Possibly my favorite thing about Northern is its excellent music and specifically theatre programs. My fondest memories from the school have been watching and participating in putting together the professional-level musicals that would show to sold out crowds at the district fine arts center. Northern High School isn’t perfect, and can be lacking in spirit and diversity, but it still does a lot of things well.... Read 91 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,153

• Student-teacher ratio 20:1

• Troy School District, MI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.95 out of 5  391 reviews

Freshman: As a Muslim south Asian student at Athens high school one thing I’ve notice is the amount of respect towards people of different race, religion, character and more. At Athens there are so many clubs, and school events to attend to help students engage with the School. One thing I love that we do here at Athens is that every year we have something called “charity week.” It’s a week where Athens Commun members chooses a charity and the community has a week to sponsor that charity, and most purchases (outside of school and inside of school) goes towards that campaign. One thing that I would love to see more of is just assembly’s that bring entertainment and awareness of something good to all students.... Read 391 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,575

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• Dearborn City School District, MI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.31 out of 5  64 reviews

Sophomore: Henry Ford Early College is the place to be! A competitive high school that pushes you to be the best everyday. Not only do you receive a free associates degree but also, you get to enjoy and learn from on the job experience in your perspective career. Henry Ford Early college creates a fun learning environment by using unconventional teaching styles that push you to become a better student, and member of society. As a student you receive real world life lessons in the classroom. By giving you an on campus experience you quickly learn more about yourself and your future. A school that offers a variety of diverse students and cultures promotes a healthy and toxic free environment. Students become family and teachers become friends and more like mentors. There is no where better to be than at Henry Ford Early College!... Read 64 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 225

• Student-teacher ratio 20:1

• Ann Arbor, MI•

• Public School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.18 out of 5  163 reviews

Senior: Washtenaw Technical Middle College is an amazing school for diversity. I have noticed that the teachers actually care about their students and make sure that their student have the best professors. The staff loves to motivate and make sure students are passing classes. Whenever I was stuck in a class or felt unmotivated my base advisor was such a big help and helped me. WTMC just wants the best for their students and I love how they take their students mental health seriously. I really recommend this school for people! There's also a lot of clubs so everyone can fit in. This school has done an amazing job helping kids prepare for college especially since it's a middle college program.... Read 163 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 796

• Student-teacher ratio 35:1

• Saline Area Schools, MI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.06 out of 5  341 reviews

Senior: Saline High School is a school that cares about the success of its students and provides many opportunities for peer-to-peer and peer-to-teacher aid. The school has extremely nice facilities for academics, sports, and theatre, and allows for students to grow in areas outside of academics. Saline High School has been faced with multiple racist allegations, however, I feel the school has done its best to work with the Black Student Union in order to get their voices heard in the fight for equality. In the future, I would like to see more funds put forward into other sports, not just football, because Saline has many talented athletes outside of just football.... Read 341 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,597

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• East Lansing School District, MI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  229 reviews

Senior: East Lansing High School is a standout school, defined by its diversity in people, experiences, and opportunities. The community and school culture stands out as one that unites many differing people and forms tight-knit bonds that will last a lifetime. The students are fortunate to have dedicated and passionate teachers who always go above and beyond to help understand the material and reach their full potential. Students are given the opportunity to explore interests and develop important skills like teamwork, leadership, and communication through sports, music, and clubs. Most importantly, the school opens the door for student voices and provides for change when it is needed. The school does, however have its struggles. There are commonly conflicts between students, and many of the faculty are unpopular among students. Nevertheless, East Lansing High School has the power to better itself and triumph all the struggles that come its way because that is the power of community.... Read 229 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,216

• Student-teacher ratio 22:1

• Rochester Community School District, MI•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  271 reviews

Junior: I loved the rigorous curriculum and I had always felt that there were opportunities for growth. I was always able to challenge myself in some way, academically and socially. While the academic aspect is easier to adapt to, the culture of the school is somewhat rigid and uninviting- especially to those with more diverse ethnic backgrounds. Bullying is quite rampant and the efforts to diffuse such social alienation were not attempted by students or teachers. The teachers often assign work that is less than preparatory and find difficulty connecting with the students and their mental health. Many of them treat certain students with preferential treatment, leaving the other students feeling unincluded. There was a lockdown incident where several classes, including my own, were escorted out of the school by police and SWAT. Several threats had been made the year prior, and a safe ED that had been hired made threatening, racist remarks on his social media.... Read 271 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,496

• Student-teacher ratio 21:1

• Grosse Pointe Public School System, MI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.14 out of 5  325 reviews

Alum: Grosse Pointe North High School had resources like the theatre and choir programs which provided me with fun memories, a sense of community, and a safe space to be my authentic self without fear of judgement. However, the lack of diverse curriculum, and microaggressions from teachers and administration offered a dehumanizing experience that discouraged me and made it hard to enjoy school. If I could change the school, I would offer a more diverse and inclusive curriculum, as well as mandatory race sensitivity training for teachers and administrators, so that future students do not have to face racism in school from faculty, and so that faculty knows how to redirect racism from students.... Read 325 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,147

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1