2023 Best Schools in the Houston Area

• Houston, TX•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.34 out of 5  174 reviews

Sophomore: I am a freshman (now sophomore) at awty and it was amazing! I grew as a person so much this freshman year and would recommend anyone to go to Awty as it has one of the best communities of any private school in Houston Liked: Most teachers were very helpful, academics were challenging, but broken down if needed to, most students were very nice + it was very easy to make friends, lots of clubs and activities to try, sports are very open and inclusive, get exposure to lots of different cultures and people, the language offerings are better than any other school, the internship week (For me) was amazing this year as I got to go to a law firm for a week and it was an amazing experience, Disliked: Lack of different political views (heavily liberal), teaching quality varies, the school doesn't like to hear student perspectives, lack of transparency... Read 174 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,754

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• The Woodlands, TX•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.39 out of 5  183 reviews

Works Here: I've had the pleasure of teaching at Cooper for the past seven years. Ever since I've joined their faculty, I've learned that Cooper values all members of its community: the amount of care given to students as they navigate a challenging education is something I have not seen anywhere else. Cooper balances a healthy mixture of embracing exciting traditions while being trailblazers and innovators in education, advisory curriculum, and athletics. The faculty, staff, and parents are clearly all aligned under a common goal of doing what's best for our students. I can't imagine teaching anywhere else!... Read 183 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,318

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Houston, TX•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.16 out of 5  216 reviews

Parent: My children have been at Village from elementary through high school, and we are happy that our kids are thriving academically, mentally, socially, and emotionally at school. Village has the most diverse student population of any school in Houston, and we have enjoyed meeting families who have lived abroad just like us, and the international parent community is very welcoming too. We love the close-knit and small community, and the teachers really get to know your children as students are able to form connections with their teachers. Students are challenged with a rigorous academic program that is very much hands-on with individual and team projects that encourage creativity and innovation. The teachers are passionate about teaching and making a difference, and my children know they have a strong support system and teachers who care about them. My children love Village, and they are happy and thriving in every way possible, and that’s extremely important to me!... Read 216 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,773

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Houston, TX•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.25 out of 5  100 reviews

Middle School Student: I think the kinkaid school is an amazing place, although if you don't stay on track with the activities its very easy to slip behind your grades start dropping but as this happened to me, I started informing my friends and advisors. The community is so caring and and nice if you are enrolling here it's an amazing idea! You do have to interview but they will welcome you with open arms. Their program for children to not get left out is amazing nobody goes through something hard alone! The campus is beautiful they have amazing playgrounds that you can visit during recess although as a middle schooler playgrounds are taken away but free time is amazing you can visit a teacher to talk about a problem in their class. There are amazing counsellors and people to talk to.... Read 100 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,423

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Houston, TX•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.53 out of 5  144 reviews

Senior: My experience at Strake Jesuit College Preparatory has been great! The environment is perfect for any parent that wants their son to evolve into a goal-oriented young man. Strake Jesuit supplies students with all the tools needed to excel, such as: College and personal counselors, free periods and "community time" (An hour long period from 9am-10am everyday in which students can socialize, meet with teachers, go to club or athletic meetings, play sports, study, or more), the perfect balance of freedom and structure, and state of the art conditions. Strake Jesuit's faculty is another upside to the school, as all members are kind hearted, smart individuals who strive to build good teacher-student relationships. The community of Strake Jesuit is a unique one, bonding students from all paths of life. Through advisory periods and the general openness of the campus, new friendships (no matter how surprising) are made every day.... Read 144 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,382

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• Houston, TX•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.41 out of 5  318 reviews

Freshman: I love attending St Agnes Academy! It has been such a great blessing and opportunity. There are so many courses and clubs to join and the school does an amazing job of involving parents. The school environment is so friendly and non-toxic. The only thing I do wish would change however, is the diversity, more specifically the last there of.... Read 318 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 921

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Houston Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.99 out of 5  347 reviews

Senior: Carnegie Vanguard High School is a rigorous high school that provides a great learning and challenging learning environment with the addition of Advanced Placement and Dual Credit Courses. Although the learning environment can be challenging, students at Carnegie create an enjoyable inclusive environment, whether it be from freshmen to seniors; everyone gets to enjoy this positive environment. Students can also enjoy various clubs that are started by teachers, like Chess Club, or by students like the Mahjong Club. These clubs offer great diversity, and promote a sense a inclusion to all students, as everyone is invited. In all, Carnegie Vanguard High has a very supportive environment were students can feel welcome and included, the additional support from everyone, not only students, and the rigorous academic learning a student needs to be successful.... Read 347 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 925

• Student-teacher ratio 24:1

• Houston, TX•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.28 out of 5  109 reviews

Alum: I had a great experience here at St. John's. This is hands down the best college prep school in the Houston area. I was a struggling student, and the school offered plenty of support, and I now attend an amazing prestigious college. You should consider this school by any means necessary. Rankings are bogus, but this review is not!... Read 109 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,430

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Houston, TX•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.45 out of 5  80 reviews

Alum: A truly unique and impactful place. The staff are genuine, bright and caring people. The quality of the teaching is top-notch, but what really sets Emery apart is the culture. Each year, the school features a blend of experiential learning trips to San Francisco NYC and more. There are also annual grade-level retreats that help forge camaraderie amongst the students and staff. The school offers students the ability to express themselves, through athletics, the arts and clubs. While many peer schools offer these avenues for growth, this one really does provide an environment conducive to maturation, freedom and growth. I highly recommend The Emery/Weiner School to any and all families looking to be a part of a community. I wouldn’t be the person I am today without it!... Read 80 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 579

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• Houston Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  666 reviews

Senior: I believe that this school was thoroughly beneficial in terms of exposure to advanced content, and learning how to navigate through difficult circumstances. However, being here can be very overwhelming, and it is very easy to be caught up in academic achievement that self neglect becomes a major factor. My advice to future students is to really deliberate if the Health Sciences is something you are truly passionate about. If so, enter this school prepared for the complexities that are to come with this fast paced, college-preparatory environment. Complete your work as soon as you receive it, or as soon as reasonably possible, and most importantly, build and maintain your relationships with your peers, administrators, and educators. Join clubs, get involved in student politics, if interested, and work diligently to receive your DeBakey diploma :).... Read 666 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 939

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• Houston, TX•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.92 out of 5  36 reviews

Senior: Knowledge-first has been an amazing experience for me. The classes are engaging, and the teachers are phenomenal—they genuinely care about your well-being, and they are always willing to meet with you outside of class or just chat. The students are wonderful, as well. Each person is unique and interesting to talk to, and the school has an incredibly collaborative atmosphere! I've had a great time at KFEA, and I would absolutely recommend this school.... Read 36 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 121

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• Katy, TX•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  75 reviews

Parent: Our primary aged children had a great experience at the British International school of Houston over the 2 years. Through the IPC approach, our children have developed a real love of learning and are inquisitive and confident to try new things in the safe environment the school has created. The phonics program for young readers is really effective. From a COVID perspective, they did a wonderful job of setting up the learning environments such that in person lessons could continue. Teachers seem to genuinely love teaching and care for their students, whilst the support teams are very helpful. I have also appreciated that the leadership listen to feedback and suggestions from parents. Our family thoroughly recommends BISH!... Read 75 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 900

• Student-teacher ratio 4:1

• Bellaire, TX•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.47 out of 5  163 reviews

Senior: Episcopal High School is amazing! Over the four years there, I have met so many new life-long friends and connections that will last long after college and higher education. The academics offered allow me to take new classes that I never though I would have while being able to maintain daily athletics and extracurriculars. Through the college counseling office, I am helped with every step on college applications and feel more than ready for college. I would have never picked any other high school to go to!... Read 163 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 796

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Houston Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.2 out of 5  299 reviews

Senior: HSPVA is a place for Visual artists, Theater artists , vocalists, instrumentalists, creative writers , and dancers to perdue their artistic dreams through experienced staff, a state of the art building in downtown Houston, and opportunities to have your artwork shared with the world. Our school has won three Grammys, dozens of presidencial youngarts awards, and our alumni have been featured in the MFAH, Grey's Anatomy, Jones Hall, the Wortham Center, Discovery Green, Scholastic, and the Voice. Our most famous alumni being Beyonce! Our building is equiped with sound rooms, a print room, galleries, technology labs, large outdoor patios, recording equipment, piano rooms, lounging areas, and even metalworking equipment. I have been very lucky to go to this school, and I have had my work featured in the Contemporary Arts Museum and in the Scholastic Gold Key Awards because of the excellent education that this school provides.... Read 299 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 797

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Katy Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.02 out of 5  1,281 reviews

Senior: Seven Lakes Highschool is a wonderful school to go to! The Fine Art Department is great in every category. The Orchestra does amazing, the band does amazing, the choir does amazing, the theater department is super cool! It's great to express yourself there. The education is good too. Most teachers are good and nice. Some teachers are absolutely amazing and will go beyond. The athletic department does great except in football but we'll get there one day. The soccer team is really good. There is definitely a group for anyone to join in Seven Lakes along side with the many clubs it has to offers.... Read 1,281 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 3,678

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• Fort Bend Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  832 reviews

Sophomore: I love Clements High School and enjoyed my freshman year a lot. There are so many amazing things about the school including its kind and caring teachers and administration and the thoughtful students. The facilities like the gyms, tennis courts, commons, and football field are all very well taken care of. The school spirit of everyone on campus is outstanding! One of the only negatives that come to mind is the pressure on the students with their academics. The environment, though cheerful with all the friendships, is very competitive. I would wish that homework would not be as intense, or scheduling for tests and quizzes could be communicated between departments so that there isn't the pressure of studying for three tests that fall all on the same day. However, the rigorous courses make sure that students learn how to manage their time wisely and how to quickly absorb new information while being organized.... Read 832 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,496

• Student-teacher ratio 19:1

• Katy Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.26 out of 5  377 reviews

Senior: Overall a great school! Our motto is "make it a great day to be a falcon," meaning make everyday worthwhile. Embrace the small achievements everyday, and strive for excellence everyday. Which is what most of the days at Tompkins feel like. The teachers are great and they care about their students and their success, so if you ever struggling and need help ask you teacher, they will most likely be willing to work with you to get better. As much as the school is academically strong it is also really strong in sports. With almost every sport making districts and state. The academic competition is very strong here, and you have to work pretty hard to get good grades, but if you are struggling the staff and even students are willing to help. I personally was apart of the schools marching band, and even that was a strong program, supported by the school administration.... Read 377 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 3,484

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• Houston, TX•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.12 out of 5  95 reviews

Parent: Excellent school. Our daughters transferred during high school and were warmly welcomed by the amazing students, teachers, and staff. Our daughters are challenged and are thriving… highly skilled teachers, motivated students, diverse course selections, including many AP classes. Diverse and involved student body, tons of school spirit and wonderful traditions, clubs, athletics, fine arts. We couldn’t be happier!... Read 95 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 629

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Houston, TX•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.26 out of 5  92 reviews

Alum: I absolutely loved attending Duchesne Academy. It honestly became like a second home to me, and I learned more there than I ever had before. The teachers really care about their students academic and personal wellbeing, and the friends I made there over the years are some of my best friends to this day. It has a special way of creating a sense of community while also fostering learning like nowhere else. I miss my days at Duchesne and could not recommend it enough to those thinking about attending!... Read 92 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 703

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Bellaire, TX•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.54 out of 5  26 reviews

Parent: We started our son at The Post Oak School this year, and I’ve been blown away by our experience. He truly loves school and is happy to go every day now, and he’s getting to dig in and learn about fascinating things he’s really interested in. More than that, when The Post Oak School says they’re focused on community, they mean it — every teacher and administrator and parent is so kind and encouraging and inclusive and they really listen and care about you and your child. It’s unlike any other school we’ve been at, and it’s clear that this is why children thrive here.... Read 26 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 504

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Houston, TX•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.27 out of 5  124 reviews

Junior: Second Baptist school welcomes you, encourages you, and prepares you. I came in as a freshman and all the teachers, administrators, and students welcomed me with open arms. The teachers helped me with the curriculum of a new school, the administrators helped me adapt to a new system, and some of the students I first met are now my closest friends. Second of all, Second Baptist encourages students in academics, extra curricular activities, and our walk with God. The teachers make it clear that they are there to help us, and are understanding with what we are struggling with. We also are encouraged to participate in various activities. Whatever you are passionate about, whether that be in the area of athletics or the arts, they have an activity/class available for you to master and expand your God-given talent. The Bible classes and the chapels are designed for us to grow and learn more about God. Lastly, SBS prepares us for our next step in life. I love Second Baptist!... Read 124 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,024

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Katy Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.07 out of 5  715 reviews

Senior: This school values education as its highest priority. You would think that was obvious but from my experience of moving multiple times, I've seen that schools value extracurriculars more than their children's future lives. This school has prepared me for life and has set me on the right course for college. They provided me a 4-year engineering course, a vast selection of AP courses, and most importantly the best teachers to teach those classes. All my AP teachers were engineers, accountants some even doctors who found a passion for teaching, and they all inspired me to pursue a higher level of education. Now don't get me wrong extracurricular were not lacking. I found my place in the marching band where I became a two-year section leader and a top band trombone player. The band is amazing, and I learned how to lead at a high level which will prepare me for my life in the future. There is no school I'd rather attend than this one, and will forever be a proud Cinco Ranch Cougar!... Read 715 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 3,401

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Houston, TX•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.38 out of 5  135 reviews

Parent: My son is a junior and has had an outstanding experience. He is taking advanced classes that are challenging and stimulating. His teachers are inviting, engaging, and dedicated to his success. He plays sports and is a member of several clubs. He enjoys the service opportunities and appreciates giving back to his community. He likes being in a Christ-centered environment. As a parent, I have always felt included and support by the staff and other parents. Their are numerous volunteer and social opportunities throughout the year. Without a doubt, our family is so glad we chose St. Thomas HS for our son!... Read 135 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 595

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.01 out of 5  766 reviews

Alum: Cypress Ranch was always bustling with ideas and people. It was a great school from my school district, and it showed based on the numerous awards that lined the halls. 90% of teachers actually engaged with their students and made learning enjoyable. We also had ample money to spend on various programs, which meant we got top-of the line resources. The only problems with Cypress Ranch were its lack of diversity and its classism. Cypress Ranch was surrounded by predominantly white and well-off neighborhoods. I, and some other students, came from the lower class neighborhood across the street and were barely zoned in to the school. There was a stark contrast between the behaviors and tolerance of the well-off students and the more average students. Casual racism was also prevalent there, as many students came from Conservative families and thought nothing of the problem. Cypress Ranch had its pros and its cons, but overall, it was a pleasant experience.... Read 766 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 3,445

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Houston, TX•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.7 out of 5  10 reviews

Alum: I went to Woods from pre-k through high school and loved it. The teachers were so supportive and genuinely wanted me to learn and remember the material rather than only memorize information for tests. I loved the emphasis on creative projects and how I was able to have so many leadership experiences within the community. We took amazing trips where I learned so much about politics, U.S. History, and even geology (with a fossil dig in 4th grade!). I truly do not have enough fantastic things to say about woods! I really feel that my education there prepared me for college (I'm in the honors program at UT Austin now) while always giving me a great experience at school and a supportive and diverse community!... Read 10 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 288

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1