2023 Best Schools for STEM in Norfolk County

• Dedham, MA•

• Private School•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 4.65 out of 5  54 reviews

Senior: It is hard to put into words the incredibly positive impact that this school has had on my life. Coming in as an awkward freshman, I was greeted by a welcoming community of intelligent, funny, and hard-working students and teachers that have supported me since day one. Through the most amazing sports teams, clubs, organizations, and even just academic classes, I have made memories and formed relationships (with students and teachers alike) that will last me a lifetime. Now as a senior in my fourth year at the school, I feel confident in myself as a learner, friend, teammate, leader, and person, and so much of this is thanks to Nobles. Starting with assembly in the morning, and ending with "Dogs on three, one, two, three, DOGS!" at the end of practice in the afternoon, the constant infectious energy makes it a joy for me to go to school each day. I will miss this place dearly and plan to stay connected long after I graduate.... Read 54 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 614

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• Milton, MA•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.23 out of 5  142 reviews

Senior: Milton Academy students leverage their top-tier academics to achieve their goals. Whether that be in academics, athletics, the arts, or in social justice, everything these students do is done at the highest caliber. We love to learn and bond through knowledge! I would describe its community as full of social nerds. Milton has provided me with endless opportunities and has expanded my network immensely. Thank you for a wonderful three years so far, Milton. While I’ll be moving onto a new chapter in the next couple years, I know I will always have Milton’s support.... Read 142 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,020

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Needham, MA•

• Private School•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 4.6 out of 5  48 reviews

Parent: Our son started as a 9th grader in the fall of 2020. The school has exceeded our very high expectations. Even with the ongoing pandemic, the school has managed to provide an academically rigorous and caring/supportive community. The teachers are extraordinary. They know our son very well and truly care about his academic AND personal and spiritual development. His academic transition from public school has been seamless. We are confident the education he is receiving will prepare him very well for college. In this uncertain time with so much angst in society, I can not think of a better community for our son to be part of. On a daily basis the faculty and administration communicate their time tested wisdom that allows him to help filter out the current angst and noise that surrounds us all. We are extremely grateful we can call St. Sebastian's home. Sending our son is truly the best academic decision we have ever made.... Read 48 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 375

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Public Schools of Brookline, MA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.96 out of 5  352 reviews

Senior: Brookline High School as a whole is a great experience. There are so many options for classes and electives! Most of the teachers seem to genuinely care about their students. There are so many clubs, sports, and activities- you can certainly find something you’re interested in (or make your own club!). The culture is competitive but teachers are always available to support students. As with any school, there are issues but ultimately students, teachers, administrators, and the town collaborate to make changes.... Read 352 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,035

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Dover-Sherborn Regional School District, MA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.92 out of 5  84 reviews

Parent: Just love this school district and the value they put on education AND inclusion. Our children are heard with this new administration and how they approach balance of academic rigor and adolescent social development and mental well-being. Those who disagree care about dumb rankings like Niche, Boston & US News, and that is why our children suffer the consequences and succumb to unnecessary pressure often leading to unhealthiness, anxiety and depression. Steer clear of reviews like the one below. It’s inaccurate. As far as diversity is concerned, in these two sleepy suburb communities, the numbers mirror most towns of these sizes in race and income. Bussing children in from other communities has created success for some, but tends to add stress to the children without means as comparisons steal joy.... Read 84 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 674

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Wellelsey, MA•

• Private School•

• 5-12

• •
  Rating 4.21 out of 5  71 reviews

Parent: We have experienced both public and private high schools and in the end, it’s what the student makes of the available opportunities. We find Dana Hall to be an excellent school with caring and responsive staff. Students have weekly one on one meetings with their advisor as well as daily group meetings. The environment promotes girls to take on leadership roles as well as fostering a spirit of sisterhood through their many school traditions. We were initially hesitant about sending our kid to an all girls school but so far, she academically amply challenged and is very happy where she is.... Read 71 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 481

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Brookline, MA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.32 out of 5  38 reviews

Alum: I loved my time at Maimonides! The school ensures that students leave with a great education in both Judaic and Secular studies. The classes are taught by wonderful, devoted teachers who build strong relationships with the students. The personal interactions are a unique feature of this school that can make any student feel comfortable. Maimonides has built a culture where the students support each other while also challenging each other to achieve the most that they can. Being a Jewish School, Judaism is sewn into the fabric of the school with a foundation built upon Jewish values, Jewish classes throughout the day, and opportunities to learn and develop Jewish identities. Students here, are known for their advanced Talmudic skills and Derech Eretz (respectful behavior). Maimonides manages to perfectly balance the seriousness of an academically-focused school, with a supportive culture that comes with being a smaller school.... Read 38 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 428

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Wellesley Public Schools, MA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.95 out of 5  174 reviews

Alum: Wellesley Senior High School is an excellent school exceding admirable quality in education, student well-being, student-teacher relations, and preparations for the student's next stage. Being an epitome of public schools across the country, everyone from the faculty to the student matches their best to foster a healthy, understanding environment needed for successful students. Students have access to unprecedented resources for their academic achievements, personal passions, and physical and mental well-being. The school hosts various academic competitions, clubs, and experts to further students' experiences and engage students' interests. The school even provides various academic and psychological health networks for those in need for guaranteed success. That being said, due to the success rooted in everyone's responsibility and commitment, some may not find the same accessibility as others. However, much is possible at Wellesley Senior High School with a go-getter mindset.... Read 174 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,469

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Sharon Public Schools, MA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  160 reviews

Senior: Sharon High School is an excellent school, especially in terms of academics and preparing me for applying and attending college. The school offers courses from various levels spanning from foundations to AP level. In each course there is a teacher who is very well educated and teaches the class extremely well, making the material comprehensible for every student. In addition, as an AP student at my school, I have felt prepared and received high results on my AP exams without having to do any additional studying outside of how they prepare us in class. Sharon High's counselors are also excellent because they are always there for you when you have questions, have amazing resources for every need, and provide multiple college application help sessions. My school also invites colleges from all over in the fall, letting students discover new universities without the need to travel. To conclude, Sharon High School is an excellent place for classes and college readiness.... Read 160 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,131

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Brookline, MA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.19 out of 5  42 reviews

Parent: The admistration is highly productive. They did not lose a day of teaching in the pendemic. They has no expereince for the online teaching before the covid hited us. Right after the spring break, online lessons were started as a half day program on Monday. On Wednesday, they switched to a whole day class to fully engage students. They never missed the summer camp and even open the campus much earlier than most other schools still did not know how to open their campus. It truely respect people's choice & rights. Never force anyone to be vacinnated. They teach kids critical thinking by allow them to listen to all perspectives instead of teaching kids to one direction which would altimatly destoy the country. Teachers are really caring about kids and would approach parents regarding how to help the kids become better. Not the fake love elsewhere. Great school with true loves, caring and common sense. I think its' ranking must be affected by the name of diversity which is a nonsense.... Read 42 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 754

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• Westwood Public Schools, MA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.04 out of 5  226 reviews

Senior: My experience at Westwood High School has been eventful and innovative. Westwood has consistently challenged me to be my very best and push myself to new limits. Regarding education, teachers are completely invested in their students and provide the school with meaningful instruction. The community at Westwood is inclusive and encouraging. Although there isn't a lot of diversity, as a Muslim girl, I feel incredibly welcomed by everyone. The friends and connections I have formed at school will last a lifetime and are incredibly important for my mental health. Additionally, Westwood High School always acknowledges how students are struggling with the workload and how that affects their performance. In order to limit this effect, the district provides students with accessible resources such as therapy and yoga classes. Overall, my experience living in Westwood for most of my life has been extremely rewarding.... Read 226 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 993

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Needham Public Schools, MA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  265 reviews

Junior: Overall, my experience at NHS has been a relatively good one! I've never had significant problems with my teachers, although some are definitely better at teaching than others. However, that can be said about most schools. I'm incredibly grateful for the open-campus policy as it gives students more freedom to choose a place they are able to better focus or accommodate their needs. That said, Needham, which can be labeled as a "liberal" town, still has its fair share to do in combating racism and other forms of discrimination. While being a white-dominated school itself does not warrant any problems, I have personally witnessed the more covert prejudice that runs within the student population. It's subtle, but it's there. Luckily, from what I've heard from friends, the school offers many great guidance counselors. Students can go there to discuss future plans or anything that's bothering their minds, and I think the school does an adequate job of providing mental health resources.... Read 265 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,670

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1

• Braintree, MA•

• Private School•

• 5-12

• •
  Rating 4.39 out of 5  93 reviews

Parent: My children have found their people and place at Thayer and are thriving. Teachers truly know their students as reflected in detailed comments and teacher feedback. Not only are my children being challenged and inspired academically, they are trying new sports and activities constantly from volunteering for special olympics to acting and singing. The scholars in residence program is bringing amazing thought leaders to the school to teach leadership, communication, human rights, poetry and marine science. We chose Thayer because of the exceptional academics combined with amazing arts and athletics and a culture where people truly see and care for our children. The school is delivering on its mission and promise to know, connect and prepare my children.... Read 93 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 719

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Medfield, MA•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.28 out of 5  80 reviews

Parent: Our daughter's overall experience at Montrose School has been very positive. She is an active participant in her learning experiences, while also being challenged in many ways to grow each day. The dedicated teachers engage with students in a variety of areas. In addition to academics, teachers mentor students and support each of them along their unique journey at Montrose. The school offers countless opportunities for students to stay active and involved in sports and clubs, which helps to balance both academic and social development. We are blessed to have found such a wonderful school to support our daughter!... Read 80 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 215

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Chestnut Hill, MA•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.24 out of 5  88 reviews

Parent: When looking for schools for my son, I wanted the strong academics, but I also wanted an environment that fostered independent thinking and discovery; an increasingly difficult combination to find given the climate of education and expectation these days. However, Beaver delivered it all. The core skills being taught are the same as what other schools are teaching, but Beaver does it in a way that draws the students in to ask questions, test their own ideas (knowing that it is ok, and expected, for some ideas to flop), and explore topics as they apply to real life. AP classes are not offered and that is a huge pro, not a con. By taking them out of the mix, students have space in their schedules to try classes that pique their interests...Neuroscience and Theories of Justice to name a couple. The list of colleges into which graduates matriculate year after year is a testament to the strong education students are getting and how it is perceived in the broader academic world.... Read 88 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 457

• Student-teacher ratio 4:1

• Braintree, MA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  34 reviews

Parent: My only child graduated from CATS Academy Boston a year ago. She got straight into Computer Sci uni program without taking competitive uni entrance exam. I'm happy so today I share this review. I can't say enough good things CATS offer to students: beautiful n safe campus, rich food, diverse culture, great teacher guidance...Boarding room is so unique, my child was given a single room with own clean bathroom n aircon, something I can't find in any other boarding school before. Therefore, she studied very hard n got great results during 2 years highschool at CATS. CATS prepares so well for university. AP n advanced courses she took at CATS, my daughter joins in many helpful clubs within n outside of school. Helpful visits to famous universities such as MIT, Harvard, Boston...Creative sessions at YouthCITIES, Boston Children's Hospital are golden opportunities CATS offer to enrich knowledge n brighten uni profile for students. I'm so grateful and proud to recommend CATS.... Read 34 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 420

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Medfield Public Schools, MA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.95 out of 5  103 reviews

Junior: MHS is a very academic-focused school that has a lot of options for its highest-achieving students, but it has some problems with flexibility. Most teachers will give extensions based on circumstances. There is less schedule room to prioritize music and arts. However, Medfield is still a great place for music. It’s difficult to get good replacements for our teachers (especially in the math department), and having 3 different teachers for one class throughout a year is too common. Most students are involved in various activities because everything is so college-centered. The town is wealthy and not racially diverse, but our school feels accepting towards LGBTQIAP+ youth. I’m grateful to have attended this school, but I know there are many who don’t feel this way. Because people here know there are more problematic places, it becomes difficult for them to see the problems here.... Read 103 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 775

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Milton Public Schools, MA•

• PK, 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  163 reviews

Senior: I love the inclusive feel of the community, the teachers, administrators and students all come together to make everyone feel welcome and accepted. We have great programs for students interested in all types of activities and future careers. As a senior leaving next year I can really see how Milton High School has prepared me from my first day for real work experiences and college, as well as supporting me throughout my high school experience. Students are free to explore their interest through clubs, sports and musical programs. I’ve loved my four years at Milton High with great friends, teachers and leaders.... Read 163 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,127

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1

• Westwood, MA•

• Private School•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 4.38 out of 5  143 reviews

Alum: The decision to attend Xaverian was one of the best decisions I have ever made! As a current college student, it has prepared me so well for the academic rigor and intensity of college. I learned many valuable skills at Xaverian such as hard work, discipline, and time management. Rooted in its wonderful community, Xaverian forms young men and prepares them for whatever the next chapter of their life after high school may be. Xaverian is a special place and I continue to be grateful for my 4 years as a hawk!... Read 143 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 940

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Dedham, MA•

• Private School•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  100 reviews

Parent: Ursuline Academy has given our daughter the opportunity to be the best version of herself academically, as well as athletically. During these formative years, it was important that we could rely on a school that assisted us, as parents, in building confidence in our daughter and helping her to achieve excellence to the best of her ability. Ursuline keeps our daughter engaged in her studies, and allows for a great experience on the field or on stage. She has made wonderful friendships that expand beyond the walls of the school. I highly recommend Ursuline Academy to help get the best out of your daughter!... Read 100 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 352

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Canton Public Schools, MA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.58 out of 5  97 reviews

Senior: Canton High School is a brilliant school, with many great teachers and tons of activities. They value academics as well as athletics, and the overall well-being of their students. Clubs such as best buddies and the Canton Character Crew do great work for the community around them. There are great classes as well, with a great music program that I am a part of. The athletics have been very successful especially recently, with four state championships in the past three years. Beautiful classrooms and high tech teaching styles highlight what makes learning at Canton High School amazing. We have great school pride, with a spirit week ever year that almost all students participate in. The Pep rally is also a fan favorite. School can sometimes get monotonous, but I truly believe that Canton High School has the best teachers around to keep the curriculum interesting. AP and other challenging courses are also offered, showing the dedication. Canton High really cares about their students.... Read 97 reviews

• grade A

• Students 951

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• Medway Public Schools, MA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.83 out of 5  202 reviews

Junior: Medway High School is honestly a great learning environment. Students have a ton of opportunities to take unique classes that many schools around don't offer. The administration is incredibly supportive of student's needs and there are really great extra help programs in place for those who need it. Medway also offers a large variety of honors and AP classes for students to challenge themselves with, as well as clubs and sports.... Read 202 reviews

• grade A

• Students 631

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Cohasset Public Schools, MA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  61 reviews

Alum: Cohasset High School was a very tight knit community in which peers all knew one another and were well supported by teachers and one another. The guidance counselors could have been more helpful during the college application process, though once I got to college I felt academically prepared.... Read 61 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 447

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• Quincy, MA•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.24 out of 5  84 reviews

Middle School Student: The Woodward School is by far one of the best all girls schools in all of Massachusetts. Their teachers are top notch and their curriculum is fun while also very educational. Many of the teachers write their own curriculum and they do such an amazing job of it. They also really include the students in decisions. For example when they were choosing a new head of school they let the students meet the candidate and ask him/her/them questions about what they plan to do for the school, how they would handle specific problems, even just their opinion on snow days, also if they support the LGBTQ community. The Woodward school is very supportive of the LGBTQ community they have many students who are part of the LGBTQ community as well as some teachers! The Woodward school does many great things for the community for example our animal welfare club collected toys and treats for the nearby dog shelters, and our environmental club has done numerous things for the community and the school.... Read 84 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 80

• Student-teacher ratio 4:1

• Franklin Public Schools, MA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  378 reviews

Junior: I love the academic rigor here at Franklin High School, and their community of staff and students. The clubs are my favorite because people, advisors and students alike, are really into what they do. The wide variety of clubs make me want to do all of them! I also love how the school takes to consideration the wants and needs of their students so that change happens. Recently, necessary products are provided in the bathrooms throughout the school because of the request from a few students. The fact that this request was implemented shows their openness to address problems.... Read 378 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,734

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1