2023 Best Schools in the Detroit Area

• Bloomfield Hills, MI•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.43 out of 5  268 reviews

Senior: I came to CK during the pandemic. It obviously was not a traditional experience, however, comparatively, the school's response to the pandemic in ensuring the best possible education was provided to their students was definitely exceptional. With the amazingly breathtaking campus, CK has the facilities and resources like no other high school that students have the full advantage of utilizing. Students had the opportunity to return to campus for in-person learning a lot sooner the other schools due to the spacing available. Now attending CK in a post-pandemic time, I can fully enjoy all that the school has to offer...and trust me, they've got lots!... Read 268 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,659

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Ann Arbor, MI•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.33 out of 5  61 reviews

Junior: Greenhills is a diverse, tight knit community that has really helped me become more confident in my artistic abilities, writing, and performance overall. It's a really small school which makes it great for individualized learning and opportunities. This is only further enhanced by the array of diverse voices being heard. The literary classes in particular showcase some amazing books on diversity and inclusion. My main gripe with the school is its lack of diverse education resources- it isn't great at providing aid for neurodivergent kids. Some teachers also don't properly use the homework website and neglect updating or even showing grades for each academic term. Personally, the small student body has helped me grow to be a more confident individually but, it does get a bit boring and monotonous to just see the same people everyday. Overall, great school with some amazing opportunities, students, and staff.... Read 61 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 677

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Beverly Hills, MI•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.27 out of 5  126 reviews

Alum: I went to country day since I was in 4th grade and am so happy I was there all the way until high school! The small classroom environment is so helpful and the I would say the majority of the teachers will help you and are really great. Also, having to do clubs, community service, and sports continued to keep me and all my friends very well rounded people in general and on paper, when applying to colleges. I had a wonderful experience and will definitely send my kids there! Go yellow jackets!... Read 126 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,515

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• West Bloomfield, MI•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.06 out of 5  52 reviews

Alum: It was an excellent school, I loved it there and definitely did not want to go anywhere else. The school offers many different academic courses to chose from. Being such a small school it allows students to develop a more personal relationship with their teachers. On top of that the school does an excellent job in preparing students for college.... Read 52 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 125

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Oakland Schools, MI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.03 out of 5  656 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 656 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,524

• Student-teacher ratio 1524:1

• Troy School District, MI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.1 out of 5  386 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 386 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,107

• Student-teacher ratio 19:1

• Birmingham, MI•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  49 reviews

Parent: We are very happy at this school. The diversity in population is outstanding. Our twice exceptional child has teachers that really get him. Teachers meet our child where he is at and the core homeroom teachers are incredibly dedicated. Specialty teachers seem to turn over frequently and the lower school language and band program leave a lot to be desired regarding frequency and staffing.... Read 49 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 269

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Novi Community School District, MI•

• PK, 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.96 out of 5  503 reviews

Senior: A very competitive school for academics. Many of the students are taking multiple AP and IB classes. Teachers overall are great, but the counselors can be difficult to work with sometimes.... Read 503 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,054

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• Washtenaw Independent School District, MI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.01 out of 5  87 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 87 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 569

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Ann Arbor Public Schools, MI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.83 out of 5  338 reviews

Senior: I had such an amazing time at Huron! What stood out to me most during my time at Huron is the teaching staff. My teachers at Huron were so caring and supportive. I will remember the lessons they taught me and the grace they showed me for the rest of my life. I went to school through the COVID-19 pandemic which, I think, will go down as some of the hardest times to be a teacher. Despite all of these outside struggles, my teachers were always pushing me to my greatest potential. As far as clubs and activities go, Huron is definitely comparable to other schools in the area. I didn't know anyone in school who wasn't somehow involved in athletics or other clubs. I personally had an amazing experience playing sports for Huron and playing with the marching band. There is always a way to get involved with what you are interested in.... Read 338 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,617

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1

• Ann Arbor Public Schools, MI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  357 reviews

Junior: What I like about Pioneer High School is the competitiveness of many students. Pioneer High School is filled with very smart students, which leads to a very competitive environment. Having a competitive environment is good because it causes students to strive to improve themselves every day. Not only are academics strong, but extracurriculars are also strong as well. Many sports teams are very competitive and the music programs at Pioneer are elite. Many students at Pioneer are friendly and create a sense of homeliness in the school. What I would like to see change is some of the teaching methods. There are many great teachers who devote lots of time and energy into helping students conceptualize and understand material, however there are some teachers who aren't very active. Some other teachers are extremely strict with grading, causing many students to become stressed with that class. All in all, Pioneer High School is a very good school in preparing its students for college.... Read 357 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,945

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• Northville Public Schools, MI•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  362 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 362 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,510

• Student-teacher ratio 24:1

• Grosse Pointe Woods, MI•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.3 out of 5  105 reviews

Middle School Student: This is my second year in Liggett and I have had an amazing time. With all the great people I’ve met. The teachers are really nice. You will always find help when you need it. There are many activities to do outside of school as well. This goes along with sports, robotics, theater/acting and all kinds of other enjoyable events offered here. Lunch is provided each and everyday and the food is great. Learning is not rushed so you can be sure to understand everything that you are taught. There are several different electives to choose from. Also, Liggett includes the whole family. They host events that anybody can join in on. Sometimes there are events to introduce new families. There has been auctions, fundraisers, and fun events hosted by the school to raise money. Either way you should always know that you will have a great time at Liggett. Go Knights!... Read 105 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 638

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Chippewa Valley Schools, MI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.41 out of 5  160 reviews

Senior: The international academy of macomb (iam) made me feel as though I could enjoy school in the comfort of my peers. At my homeschool I always felt like I was being judged or that me being myself wasn't enough to be respected. At IAM my peers felt similarly about school, the importance of it and tried just as hard as me when it came to our studies. The drive and competitive atmosphere of the IAM made me more excited about school.... Read 160 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 477

• Student-teacher ratio 80:1

• Rochester Community School District, MI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.96 out of 5  301 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 301 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,537

• Student-teacher ratio 24:1

• Ann Arbor Public Schools, MI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  338 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 338 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,386

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• Ann Arbor, MI•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.12 out of 5  17 reviews

Parent: After a few months of online schooling and many tears, we were desperate to find an in-person alternative to the anxiety inducing situation we were in. Our 9 year old son and almost 5 year old daughter have been attending the lower school since January and we are extremely pleased and feel so fortunate to have landed there. Our sensitive son’s anxiety level has been lowered significantly, and he really responds to the learning style there. He is thrilled to be learning cursive and German and knitting, and also seems to really appreciate the extra outdoor time and learning about nature and Native American stories in addition to his times tables and long division. Our nearly 5 year old daughter’s imagination is put to great use every day and she has also become quite the little finger knitter! The environment is nurturing and thoughtful. They have done an incredible job keeping everyone safe during Covid. And their communication is the tops.... Read 17 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 365

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Bloomfield Hills Schools, MI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.15 out of 5  105 reviews

Senior: I like the diversity of Bloomfield Hills High School where I am exposed to various religious and cultural backgrounds. The learning environment is unique and resembles some college class settings that I have seen. Bloomfield Hills High School offers a wide array of clubs and athletic opportunities. Even non-athletic students are encouraged to excel in various cerebral and artistic activities. As a music student, I can attest to the high level of competency of the music instruction and performances, including marching band, jazz band, symphony band, and individual competition in Solo & Ensemble. As an International Baccalaureate school, students can excel well beyond the traditional high school academic standards. Significant importance is placed on individuality and the right of self-expression, producing a number of professionally and culturally successful individuals who are now great leaders in their chosen field.... Read 105 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,709

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Birmingham Public Schools, MI•

• PK, 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.07 out of 5  260 reviews

Works Here: Groves is an outstanding school with endless opportunities for students to explore areas of interest. Students, staff and the community as a whole are extremely supportive and are always looking for additional ways to support and challenge one another to grow. Groves is a student centered and in many ways student-led community, therefore students graduate with a substantial set of leadership and problem solving skills that many high school graduates lack.... Read 260 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,179

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Ann Arbor Public Schools, MI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.37 out of 5  103 reviews

Senior: I do not think I would be the person I am today if I had not attended community. It perfectly blends the freedom of college with the structure of a high school education, promoting responsibility on the part of students while still ensuring they receive a sufficient high school education. The teachers here genuinely care about the students and there are several I intended to keep in contact with post graduation. In that vein, the forum structure promotes community bonding and a place where students can really develop a family with other students and their teachers. The opportunity to create your own class or independent study as well and the choice to enroll in one of the several universities and colleges around for class credit is an incredible opportunity that I never would’ve had any where else. If you’re worried you’d miss the feel of a big school, community had a variety of students who split enroll at their home high school as well for world languages and music programs.... Read 103 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 524

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Bloomfield Hills, MI•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.43 out of 5  125 reviews

Parent: As a parent, the most important factor is your child feeling like he matters, their goals matter, and that teachers/counselors are invested in both. Brother Rice does this in spades. While things like facilities (which they improve every summer), outstanding college prep academics, and parent involvement help make this school culture great, it is the opportunities to thrive, find new interests, create/join as many clubs as they like, be part of many different circles, and to feel like their teachers care about them that sets Brother Rice apart. Brother Rice goes deep with State Championships in several sports, but the rumor that only sports kids will thrive here is false. The robotics team is one of the few in the nation who have made it to the State Championship every year. The art/music program, while small, has dedicated teachers. The BAND OF BROTHERS brotherhood blends all grade levels together, creating amazing bonds that will last a lifetime. The alumni are fiercely loyal!... Read 125 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 518

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Troy School District, MI•

• K-5

• •
  Rating 5 out of 5  6 reviews

Alum: Fantastic, great school! Very good teachers and overall good experience! Would 10/10 recommend to any parent, very diverse district.... Read 6 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 509

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Plymouth, MI•

• Public School•

• K-8

• •
  Rating 3.62 out of 5  13 reviews

Parent: I have two sons that attend PSCA. While some consider the work "rigorous" my wife and I feel our boys are being pushed right to where they need to be. No more, that is neither feels "behind" and no less, that is, neither feels "bored". The teachers and students come from diverse backgrounds and are all very supportive. the parents are great too, except in the drop off/pick up line... But it beats 45 minutes on the bus.... Read 13 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 803

• Student-teacher ratio 21:1

• Troy School District, MI•

• K-5

• •
  Rating 5 out of 5  8 reviews

Parent: Wass is a fabulous elementary school! It offers top academics, a diverse student body, caring and committed teachers, and robust community involvement.... Read 8 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 406

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Grosse Pointe Public School System, MI•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.08 out of 5  290 reviews

Alum: As a graduate of South, I can say there are really two things that make it a worthwhile school: the college-prep nature of classes, and generally the faculty. There's really not much else about this school that makes it special. Most of the classes are taught with the intention that students will be attending college, so they're very college-style. Socratic-heavy discussions, lecture-based, all of which I will admit having helped me so far in my college experience. Generally, the faculty is great. The majority of my teachers I can look back on and genuinely say I really liked them and that they cared about their students. Of course, there was a handful not like that, but generally, I had a good experience with them. The biggest problem, as with GPPSS in general, is the administration. They seem heavily disconnected from students, and so far in the clouds of what parents want or what looks good for the statistics of the school they rarely do what's best for the students or faculty.... Read 290 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,393

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1