2024 Best Schools for STEM in Arizona

• Scottsdale, AZ•

• Public School•

• 5-12

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  122 reviews

Senior: My overall experience for this school is fairly positive I feel like every since I entered in fifth grade there have been changes for the better and changes for the worst. Amount of students are fairly larger at the lower grades and they begin to dwindle down as you get into higher grades and the courses become more rigorous and demanding of you. Because of this, all the students that remain are all very competitive with each other which is both good and bad, it helps foster growth and improvement but it also creates an environment that perpetually gatekept by a certain number of students that have just all the top positions and whatever they don’t have they just help their friends get it and this blatant bias is something I don’t unfortunately see going away anytime soon.... Read 122 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,057

• Student-teacher ratio —

• Chandler, AZ•

• Public School•

• 5-12

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  76 reviews

Parent: My student is in his second year here. Most of his teachers are phenomenal. There are a couple that he doesn't connect with, but that is any school. I like that he gets to take physics and chemistry and biology in 6th grade. He loves that! He is also very excited about his drama and PE classes. It is a very well rounded curriculum and I like the path he is on. He also has a ton of options for extracurriculars. They are affordable and are much cheaper than club sports or the things that he does outside of school. The administration is very visible every day at dismissal, which is nice. I am happy that he is here.... Read 76 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,154

• Student-teacher ratio —

• Phoenix, AZ•

• Public School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  77 reviews

Sophomore: Basis Phoenix is a school that provides challenging coursework with many resources for students to learn and advance individually. They provide a wide selection of electives for students to delve deeper into their areas of interest and offer unique extracurriculars such as an advocacy and astronomy club. This school is just the right fit for students who hope to challenge themselves. However, one thing the school could improve on is its events. For example, having more well-planned award ceremonies and school dances.... Read 77 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 730

• Student-teacher ratio —

• Peoria, AZ•

• Public School•

• 5-12

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  86 reviews

Junior: The school itself is pretty focused on academics and rigorous courses. It has plenty of available APs you can take and most of the teachers are great. However, sometimes if you put a lot on your plate, the work-life balance can be a little rough. Also, the school itself isn't your typical high school, where it's only 9-12th grades, but it also has all of middle school as well. So with the extra people with the building itself it's kind of crowded at times, but at the same time it's also good because you get to know everyone even if you're not in the same grade. Recently, we've also started a student council, so now there's going to be a lot more student-led events and changes being made, so it should be a nice pace of change. Honestly, the thing I'd really like to be improved is the extracurriculars, there's a wonderful Speech and Debate team (ranked #1 in Arizona), but maybe more options and a larger focus on some of the other clubs and emphasis on them.... Read 86 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 943

• Student-teacher ratio —

• Phoenix, AZ•

• Public School•

• 4-12

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  44 reviews

Junior: I have been a student at Basis Ahwatukee since 2016 and I will be extremely sad to leave this school at my graduation. From elementary, all the way through middle school, and finally in highschool, this school has helped me grow and develop into the person I now am. I am proud to call myself a student at this school. The teachers get to know each and every one of their students so well, keeping up to everyone's individual needs, the curriculum is challenging and brings out the full potential of everyone in class. A sense of unity is built within the students, a sense that every student is in it together, building a strong community within the grade levels. I highly recommend this school and I believe my experience at this school could not ever be surpassed by any other.... Read 44 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 720

• Student-teacher ratio —

• Tucson, AZ•

• Public School•

• 5-12

• •
  Rating 3.94 out of 5  63 reviews

Senior: BASIS Tucson North is overall an amazing school, with so many opportunities for preparation for college. However, there seems to be a disconnect between the administration and students, which can lead to issues such as a strict technology policy that makes classes such as AP research much more difficult than they should be. Also, the school is great in terms of its STEM and history classes, in which the amazing teachers keep classes engaging and help students actually learn the material. I am so lucky to have been at BASIS for the past years as my school.... Read 63 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 863

• Student-teacher ratio —

• Oro Valley, AZ•

• Public School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.05 out of 5  99 reviews

Junior: I think that if I went to any other school, I wouldn’t have the same teacher-student relationship as I do here. Due to the smaller class size, teachers are able to connect more with your students, and they are fully able to show just how much that they care. There’s also additional hours reserved for students who need extra help with assignments, and plenty of accommodations for those who are struggling to learn. My only complaint would be the lack of funding for extracurriculars and social gatherings, but I know that they plan on making a dedicated group of students to help create better events in the future.... Read 99 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 575

• Student-teacher ratio —

• Mesa, AZ•

• Public School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  58 reviews

Senior: The school has a reputation of being an academically rigorous STEM school, which can seem quite daunting to prospective students and families. Yes, there is a heavy academic focus (especially in STEM areas), and it is lots of hard work, however, the teachers are with the students each step, constantly supporting them, inspiring them with their passion for the subject (many teachers are experts in their field). The small class sizes (20-30 students per teacher) allow teachers to connect with students individually and help them in specific ways they may need, and the students always help each other. There is a large sense of community that makes the school feel welcoming and fun. When senior year rolls around, I've never seen students so prepared for college, and many graduates find college fairly easy due to the preparation provided. The school doesn't have some traditional things like football games, but the longterm benefits of the education outweigh the smaller things missed.... Read 58 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 808

• Student-teacher ratio —

• Flagstaff, AZ•

• Public School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.01 out of 5  67 reviews

Senior: I have been at this school since 6th grade and I love it! It can definitely be very academically challenging, but that is one of my favorite parts about it. The teachers are always pushing students to do our best work and reach our full potential. I feel that I am being prepared for college very well in my final year of high school, and I love all of the courses that are being offered senior year. Despite our rigorous academics, our school culture is not overly competitive, and we all support each other, especially when it comes to college applications senior year. Although I wouldn't say that BASIS Flagstaff has great programs when it comes to sports and arts, I have still participated in and thoroughly enjoyed both. If you are interested in a high school with a lot of school spirit, especially surrounding sports, I would not recommend BASIS Flagstaff. We also tend to have a few issues surrounding administrative organization, but overall, I still love this school!... Read 67 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 785

• Student-teacher ratio —

• Paradise Valley, AZ•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.48 out of 5  235 reviews

Junior: I love Phoenix Country Day School. I have been going here since 3rd grade, and I am so glad I made the switch from being at public school from K-2nd grade to PCDS. Because we are such a small school (about 70-80 people per grade), you really have opportunities to develop deep relationships with everyone (students, faculty, other staff). I have really made such great connections with every teacher, regardless of whether or not they have actually taught me. The teachers are extremely well-qualified and I love learning from them. They really do make the extra effort to make sure you understand the material, and reach out outside of class to have other conservations not regarding school. The students are also extremely kind, responsible, and caring. I have made such great friends, even starting in middle school, that I will cherish with me past high school. I am so grateful to receive such an amazing education alongside wonderful classmates, taught by incredible teachers.... Read 235 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 768

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Phoenix, AZ•

• Private School•

• 5-12

• •
  Rating 4.04 out of 5  23 reviews

Junior: AMAZING SCHOOL! The teachers work 1-on-1 with all students and truly care about them. After 10th grade, students have flexibility in choosing the classes to take to help them become stronger in specific fields. Math course pacing is student-run, meaning that kids can retake classes or accelerate through courses as fast as they like. Students are kind and inclusive and the building is beautiful.... Read 23 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 103

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Chandler, AZ•

• Public School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  40 reviews

Parent: Thank God for Paragon. I transferred my children here from another school, and it has been a miraculous 180-turn in my kids attitude and love towards school. If you can get your students into Paragon, DO IT!... Read 40 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 524

• Student-teacher ratio —

• Scottsdale, AZ•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.26 out of 5  47 reviews

Parent: We've been part of the Rancho family from 5th grade through 10th. Two very different kids, both extremely glad to be at Rancho. 'Things' always happen at schools, but it's how they're dealt with that matters. The administration at Rancho are dedicated to keeping our school safe and welcoming to all. The teachers are incredible. The students are kind. We are very happy at Rancho!... Read 47 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 850

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Prescott, AZ•

• Public School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.06 out of 5  49 reviews

Parent: My kids have been at BASIS Prescott since it opened 10 years ago! They have been challenged academically, have learned to work hard, and have developed time management skills. For my son who thrived in physics and math he was able to continue advancing as they offer classes such as AP Calculus BC & Calculus based physics. I have a child who has an IEP due to a few mental health diagnoses. The ESS (exceptional student services) has been phenomenal. The love and support for him was beyond what we expected. I am especially grateful that phones are not allowed so that the students aren't distracted and can focus on what they are learning and improve interpersonal skills. Ultimately, I'm grateful it's an environment where wanting to learn isn't looked down upon but celebrated.... Read 49 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 619

• Student-teacher ratio —

• Tucson Unified School District, AZ•

• 8-12

• •
  Rating 4.06 out of 5  523 reviews

Junior: Perfect school for kids who want a community that is surrounded around their well being. This community supports and pushes you to achieve your goals. They have a wide select of clubs and opportunities for the students and their passions. Most clubs are created and run by students; the school will support your needs in creating your own club if you don’t find something you’re interested in. They have support systems and awesome counselors, people dedicated in supporting and achieving your college passions. They have a variety of AP’s/honors, a wide select of fine art classes (they’re all absolutely fantastic), random fun events hosted by student council, and a great variety of sports. The UHS family will always show their love and support at games. But finally, the academics, I’ve found classes that I love/enjoy but I’ve had classes that make me want to pull my hair out. But they push you and show you what you’re made of and in the long run are beneficial. A great family overall!... Read 523 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,129

• Student-teacher ratio 23:1

• Gilbert Public Schools, AZ•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  167 reviews

Alum: As a former student from GCA, there were a lot of highs and lows through my full high school experience. The school is very rigorous academically compared to the other Gilbert Public schools which created a highly competitive student body; however, this resulted in a student body that was close, incredibly close. We all shared stressful moments together, making friends for life. There was a lot of pressure and stress in doing well. Personally, the worst experience I had was the stress and the lack of resources. Educators are not paid enough and it was very evident at our school. I had a lot of stress and depression for a variety of reasons and there wasn't a real support team to look out for the students. There was a time I was emotionally exhausted and stopped doing my assignments. Out of the 8 teachers I had, only 1 reached out to simply check up on me. Additionally, during my AP Biology class, we had at least 6 different teachers because no one was willing to stay.... Read 167 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 712

• Student-teacher ratio 20:1

• Tucson, AZ•

• Private School•

• 5-12

• •
  Rating 4.37 out of 5  54 reviews

Senior: I have been a student at The Gregory School since the fall of 2016. During my time at The Gregory School, I have grown and matured as a person, a student, and a friend. The faculty and staff at The Gregory School care about how each one of their students is doing, and will take time out of their day to help a student with their homework, or even just talk to them about any problems they are experiencing within their life. I am happy that I am able to be a part of this community, and I have enjoyed the past seven years here. I will take the skills and experience I have gained here with me as I move forward in life.... Read 54 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 366

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Chandler Unified School District No. 80, AZ•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 4.23 out of 5  141 reviews

Senior: Transferring from another high school to Arizona College Prep, I was welcomed into a community of academic excellence, intellectual rigor, and true care for students. I felt like I was not only supported academically, but the entire administration, faculty, and staff truly cared for my well-being and growth physically and mentally. My cognitive abilities were stretched in ways I never thought possible and I am proud to say that I have grown as a person, leader, athlete, and citizen. Going out into the "real world" next year, I feel adequately prepared with the foundations of success, leadership, grit, and education to thrive as a member of society. I would never change my experience at Arizona College Prep for anything!... Read 141 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,225

• Student-teacher ratio 22:1

• Phoenix, AZ•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.62 out of 5  194 reviews

Senior: My experience with Brophy College Preparatory has been nothing short of spectacular. This institution has left an indelible mark on my heart and mind, filling me with an appreciation for knowledge and a passion for excellence. The faculty and staff at Brophy are unparalleled in their dedication to nurturing young minds and preparing them for a lifetime of success. It is with great enthusiasm that I give Brophy College Preparatory an amazing rating, one that reflects the profound impact it has had on my life and the lives of countless others. Bravo, Brophy!... Read 194 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,407

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1

• Tucson, AZ•

• Public School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 3.62 out of 5  81 reviews

Senior: Sonoran Science Academy has its best and worst moments but overall it is a great experience for students all over Tucson who want to enter a science or technology field of education. Currently as a senior I been at the school for several years, participated in multiple sports teams and is currently in the robots club at the school. Ssa offers a new outlook and a welcoming environment for anyone. I would like to see sport department improve as the equipment can be worn down sometimes but it is has a incredible sport program over all!... Read 81 reviews

• grade A

• Students 644

• Student-teacher ratio —

• Tolleson Union High School District, AZ•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  324 reviews

Senior: My experience at this school was different from the current underclassmen there. I began my journey at this school during the summer of 2020, where social isolation and online learning was taking place due to the pandemic. I feel that I was not able to get the full experience as a high school freshman and I feel that it set me back the rest of my high school career. Going from a normal middle school to a high school with a rigorous curriculum specifically designed to prepare its students for college was difficult to adhere to and my mental health definitely prevented me from fulfilling my potential at this school. Although I struggled, I am still grateful for the teachers and counselors here for always understanding the struggles their students go through but always believing in them and preparing them in the best way for our futures.... Read 324 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 405

• Student-teacher ratio 24:1

• Phoenix, AZ•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.24 out of 5  442 reviews

Alum: I absolutely loved XCP! While I know an all girls Catholic school environment may not be for everyone, I fully believe that Xavier has equipped me with the social, spiritual, and academic skills for college. XCP has a wonderful staff of teachers who clearly care for their students and love their jobs. Xavier creates an environment that values and supports the Catholic faith and culture, but still creates a learning space that is welcoming to young women of all faith backgrounds. A Xavier education is truly something unparalleled in the state of Arizona. Girls are at the forefront of every conversation in and out of the classroom. These young women are the presidents of clubs, team captains, and leaders in the classroom. Xavier girls go above and beyond to lift each other up and make sure that everyone is represented within the classroom. An all girls environment takes away the stress of school, and turns it into a fun place where you can truly be yourself.... Read 442 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,156

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1

• Chandler Unified School District No. 80, AZ•

• 8-12

• •
  Rating 3.95 out of 5  1,280 reviews

Senior: Hamilton High School is a great place to be! As a senior who is graduating from this school in 2023, I know there's truly no better place to attend for four years than Hamilton High School. I know I will be looking back on all the friends that I made, the extraordinary teachers, and the building itself. It is fascinating! I have transferred to many schools all throughout high school and Hamilton takes the prize for the best school I have been to.... Read 1,280 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 3,926

• Student-teacher ratio 21:1

• Phoenix, AZ•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  46 reviews

Junior: ACA is a constantly improving and expanding school. There are pros and cons to its education, but overall, I believe it was best that I went here. Islamic education is vitally important. The Quran classes have especially improved from before, with middle and high school being taught based on skill level rather than grade. Arabic could use improvements for non-Arab speakers, along with more programs, but it is improving. Islamic Studies really depends, and a lot of the benefits come from whether the student pays attention or not, in my opinion. The other basic subjects, like Math and English, are just ordinary. Better than public schools, but perhaps lacking compared to other preparatory schools. Clubs and bonus hours are not too great, but considering the size of the school, I feel like that's acceptable. The environment depends on your stance. Personally, I did not hate or like it. I can't comment.... Read 46 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 366

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Phoenix Union High School District, AZ•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.11 out of 5  208 reviews

Parent: Juan really enjoys Bioscience High for a number of reasons. As a parent, I have noticed that he is challenged in so many ways. He takes responsibility for his own results and strives to be the best at what he does. Whenever he is unsure of something, he is willing to stay after school and seek extra tutoring if necessary. It is always a joy to see him come home to share the day with me and his siblings. My son is very proud of himself for all his accomplishments to date. He has received many awards, and he is very happy about them all. His leadership skills have developed over time, and he is always a great example no matter where he is or what he does. We didn't have much in our family, but Juan doesn't let that define him in any way. Instead, it motivates him to push himself beyond his limits to achieve so much! In addition to being so proud of my son, I am also very proud of the school he attends.... Read 208 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 392

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1