2023 Best School Districts for Athletes in New Jersey

• Wayne, NJ•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.23 out of 5  39 reviews

Senior: I've attended school in Wayne Township at Chapel Hill 7th&8th Grade Center starting in the eighth grade. I've of course continued on to go to the ninth-grade center and I'm currently a senior at Ben Davis Highschool. The entire campus is extremely diverse, I always feel included with others and we all relate to each other with some things. I think the clubs and organizations are amazing, the music department and sports are the best way to connect with other students and make friends. The academic side of this school is great, with many great teachers, who all come from different racial backgrounds and they all teach great. However, I do wish there were more ways for us students to get help in terms of our mental health. Of course, we have counselors, and a little hide-out to go to when we feel stressed or anxious, but I never knew about that room until I reached my senior year of Highschool. But I do think this is an amazing school, and I enjoyed every second of my time on campus.... Read 39 reviews

• grade A

• grade A+

• Total schools 15

• Students 7,634

• Haddonfield, NJ•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.57 out of 5  21 reviews

Senior: It’s a great school, everyone’s super nice especially most of the teachers, just not the best music program haha!... Read 21 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Total schools 5

• Students 2,656

• North Caldwell, NJ•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.29 out of 5  34 reviews

Parent: Our child has been in the district now for 4 years. 3 years in the "sending schools", 1 year at WEMS, and starting 8th grade now. Last year during the pandemic the staff/ teachers all made it possible for our child to grow while sitting behind a computer. I know this is not easy on anyone, nor does wearing a mask 100% of the day exactly the best case scenario, but between outdoor "tailgates," clubs, committees, etc. they make it a great environment for these children. I thought we would have more complaints about the early morning start, but not here always happy to get to school. Not to mention all the great things to say about the teachers and how supportive they are. We are very fortunate, thanks, WEMS!... Read 34 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Total schools 2

• Students 1,657

• Summit, NJ•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.34 out of 5  29 reviews

Alum: Summit High School is a tight knit community. Everyone knows each other because we all went to school together since 1st grade! All students are pretty friendly to each other, both in and out of school on the weekends, so bullying, at least in my day, was never really a thing. Most people made an effort to include others, except a few rude people. I wish the school was more diverse, that would have better prepared me for college and life!... Read 29 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Total schools 9

• Students 3,906

• Shamong, NJ•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.03 out of 5  65 reviews

Senior: I appreciate all of the resources that I have, being a part of the Lenape Regional High School District. The Media Center specialists provide me with help when it comes to any type or research assignment. They assist me in finding the right sources for what ever I need and give me lots of different options of where to look. I also appreciate how committed the teachers are. Back when we had lunch and learn teachers always offered to help during that time or if students were unavailable many would be able to meet after school for any extra help. Teachers are always questions and like to encourage participation whenever possible!... Read 65 reviews

• grade A

• grade A+

• Total schools 4

• Students 6,891

• Oakland, NJ•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.2 out of 5  25 reviews

Senior: I loved Ramapo High School. I had a great time despite the pandemic. A lot of the social life at Ramapo is based around sports and attending sporting events. Football, soccer, basketball, and hockey are some of the most popular events. Ramapo also has great academics and you will be pushed in the classroom.... Read 25 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Total schools 2

• Students 2,244

• Basking Ridge, NJ•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.21 out of 5  14 reviews

Parent: My son entered Bernards Township School District as an 8th grader after growing up in Japan attending Japanese schools. At Bedminster school he encountered engaging and supportive teachers. This positive experience impacted my son deeply. He was meant to `study abroad` in New Jersey for one year and then return to Japan, but on his own accord he wanted to stay in America. We decided to let him to live with his grandmother and continue his education at Bernards High School. I grew up in Basking Ridge and graduated from Ridge High, so I had full confidence in the School district knowing he would be well educated and prepared for college. He has grown and learned so much from his time at Bernards High School, not only as a student but as an athlete, a musician and a thoughtful member of society. We are so grateful that his teachers, coaches and staff have gone above and beyond to help him reach his goals.... Read 14 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Total schools 6

• Students 4,874

• Mays Landing, NJ•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.35 out of 5  20 reviews

Senior: What I liked about my four years in the Greater Egg Harbor Regional School district particularly Cedar Creek is the school atmosphere. The staff embodies the core values that my parents instill in me. They are kind, caring, encouraging, and supportive of the students. The maintenance staff is AWESOME they attend all academic and athletic events and PROUDLY cheer us all on. They are truly GENUINE and well RESPECTED!!!... Read 20 reviews

• grade A

• grade A+

• Total schools 3

• Students 3,082

• Westfield, NJ•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  49 reviews

Alum: Westfield has a rather abrasive academic environment. Those made of stone become polished, but not everyone is made of stone. The culture is competitive in almost every area, whether it be the arts or academics. Also, just as a product of those who live in the town, the culture is very white. The education system works hard to get students to learn about other cultures, but many kids are still very culture deaf when they leave. There were times where bullying was seen as something that is beneath Westfield but is really sort of swept under the rug. But I did learn a lot, the education is solid, the resources are there, and the teachers care. I’m sure others had different experiences.... Read 49 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Total schools 10

• Students 6,048

• North Brunswick, NJ•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.33 out of 5  70 reviews

Senior: South Brunswick HS offers so many different ways to get involved, which is how I made most of my friends. They offer so many clubs and sports teams to join. It can be a very competitive atmosphere at times, but joining these clubs and teams helped me find a group of people that I did not need to compare myself to. Besides, the competition just makes you better. There is a high standard for students but it is achievable with the help offered from teachers and other students. I enjoyed my time here!... Read 70 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Total schools 10

• Students 8,280

• Ridgewood, NJ•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.29 out of 5  34 reviews

Alum: I was a student in the Ridgewood Public School District from 2009-2022. This was a good environment to learn in because of the academic rigor especially in high school. I think that most teachers were caring and were willing to help each student. Most courses in high school properly prepared me for college courses. I felt safe in the district because the police and fire department were always notified and they would be there should an incident have occurred. The diversity is where the district struggled because a majority of students were either caucasian or asian.... Read 34 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Total schools 10

• Students 5,613

• Manasquan, NJ•

• School District

• •
  Rating 3.6 out of 5  5 reviews

Senior: I have been at manasquan all my years of highschool. Starting out freshman year I joined the cheer team, where I met most of my friends. It was so nice to go into highschool meeting these friends. The school is overall a beautiful and amazing school. The staff is all amazing. I have never felt unsafe at the school. Manasquan is the perfect place to get involved in clubs and sports because everyone knows eachother and get along.... Read 5 reviews

• grade A

• grade A+

• Total schools 2

• Students 1,567

• Matawan, NJ•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.36 out of 5  50 reviews

Senior: I love the the community here. I feel welcomed and like I belong here. The faculty and staff are always so helpful and willing to lend a hand whenever the students need it most. Extracurricular activities rage from varsity golf to cheerlead and so much more. Great district!... Read 50 reviews

• grade A

• grade A+

• Total schools 14

• Students 8,058

• River Edge, NJ•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.03 out of 5  29 reviews

Freshman: 1. A really good variety of classes for every interest! Anatomy, law, ceramics, painting etc. 2. Really nice and friendly teachers that work hard to do the best for you. No unreasonable grading. 3. Great mental health + college support system... Read 29 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Total schools 2

• Students 1,604

• Demarest, NJ•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.33 out of 5  30 reviews

Alum: Demarest ‘21 alum. This school prepares you for any school you want to intend including the Ivy League, military academies, the best public schools, and others. Most common schools my classmates went to were Rutgers, NYU, and Northeastern (where I am now.) Students usually attend Princeton, Cornell, and Penn every year. The rest of the Ivy League has been populated well, too. A 98th percentile SAT or ACT does not set you apart here. Students must beware the stress and imbalance possible here. Arts and sports are vibrant and well attended. The theatre and music program are excellent.... Read 30 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Total schools 3

• Students 2,101

• Leonardo, NJ•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.07 out of 5  55 reviews

Senior: I believe while it is a very good school district the administration does not try to engage with students but rather treat them like the grades they have rather than what they can achieve. The administration cares for students that thrive but when a student isn't the cause is just on the student when sometimes all they need is some guidance. I enjoyed my time in this school district but there are times where I believe the administration could be more helpful to the students. Finally, I believe that sports are very important however there is such an issue with the bussing and many top-notch athletes can not get the sporting events they need to in order to show their athletic ability.... Read 55 reviews

• grade B+

• grade A+

• Total schools 16

• Students 9,218

• Montvale, NJ•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.06 out of 5  18 reviews

Senior: This school made me feel welcome from the first day! I’ve made so many friendships. I’ve had so many different and diverse learning opportunities. I’ve traveled with the chamber choir and performed abroad. I’ve become a member of two national honor societies. I feel everything I’ve accomplished in the past four years has shaped my future. I will be terribly sad to leave but I know they prepared me to fly.... Read 18 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Total schools 2

• Students 1,929

• Franklinville, NJ•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.17 out of 5  54 reviews

Senior: Many teenagers would say this, "I hate Delsea, I can't wait until I graduate." But I like to differ from this because my opinion is different. I believe Delsea Regional High School is not perfect but it definitely helps the students that want it. They make sure that the school is lined up and that problems are solved when needed. They make sure to give you that support that you might need with counselors and teachers that you trust. Not only that but they want you to learn. Some teachers there are so passionate about their teaching and they want to make it excited. Delsea changed me for the better. I transferred from another school that wasn't really helping me get better. Being in Delsea helped me become a leader and strengthen my skills, as well as get opportunities to utilize skills that are my own for the better. Also, I felt included. I feel like Delsea doesn't struggle with this problem as other school does. Everyone accepts each other even if they aren't the best of friends.... Read 54 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A+

• Total schools 2

• Students 1,621

• Piscataway, NJ•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.11 out of 5  106 reviews

Senior: Piscataway High School offers a wide array of opportunities and paths to explore different interests. The administration allows students to take initiative through student run clubs. There are several levels of available courses for those interested in pursuing more challenging classes and those who need extra help. Most teachers are very motivations and provide support, although some fail to go the extra mile to encourage every single student. There are many after school activities that allow for students to get an all-around dynamic high school experience such as plays, volunteer opportunities, athletics, and clubs. The administration is very organized and informative regarding academics and promoting opportunities for students. Proper disciplinary action and decisions lack a bit, some decisions being far too strict for certain situations while others are not strict enough.... Read 106 reviews

• grade A

• grade A+

• Total schools 10

• Students 7,004

• Toms River, NJ•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.09 out of 5  34 reviews

Junior: Toms River Schools District has really excelled through the years and is growing better each year. Academic standards are rigorous and a student can challenge and apply themselves in their passionate subject fields. Sports are just as great. Being a district with 3 public high schools, rivalries are fierce. Student sections, parents, and residents all attend games and cheer their team on. Overall great!... Read 34 reviews

• grade B

• grade A+

• Total schools 18

• Students 14,618

• Wall, NJ•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.17 out of 5  24 reviews

Senior: I have had nothing but love for WHS the whole time I have gone there. We have struggled with several things as a community but none the less we went through it together. We have tons of clubs and extra curricular activities! We are a sports based school meaning that a lot of what we do surrounds our teams, mainly football, lacrosse and baseball. The teachers have always been so nice and helpful. The truly are so special and kind. All of the teachers make school so much easier! I am so thankful I go to WHS... Read 24 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A+

• Total schools 7

• Students 3,319

• Denville, NJ•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.29 out of 5  28 reviews

Senior: Morris Hills is a high school that has a plethora of awards well deserved as it is a school with activities, clubs, sports and classes. Hill has an activity for anyone, whether it be drama, singing or theater for those who wish to grow in the music field. Whether is be clubs to learn about cultures, and languages, or it may be clubs to learn about the environment, and politics, and government. It has events for sports and a great athletic program. Hills has a very diverse environment with nearly every culture and religion being celebrated, and acceptance for all. The faculty try to help students grow in every way but they also focus on student's mental health and try to relieve stress with mandatory no homework on weekends. Morris Hills also has service dogs come during AP testing and yoga lessons to make sure students are feeling confident and stress free as they take their tests. Morris Hills truly is a distinctive place that makes staff and students feel welcome and safe.... Read 28 reviews

• grade A

• grade A+

• Total schools 2

• Students 2,715

• Township Of Washington, NJ•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.16 out of 5  51 reviews

Senior: The Westwood Regional School District was a very positive experience for me. Academically, athletically, and socially the district is very secure. Most importantly, the best part of the district is the tight knit, sense of family and community that exists. It starts from the administration and filters down into the teachers, coaches, and the entire staff. My school is filled with positive role models who encourage their students to want to work hard and do better everyday. The all around environment that exists at my high school makes it very easy to be a successful student in academics and in any extracurricular activity you participate in.... Read 51 reviews

• grade A

• grade A+

• Total schools 6

• Students 2,796

• Rutherford, NJ•

• School District

• •
  Rating 4.17 out of 5  47 reviews

Senior: My experience at Rutherford High School was enjoyable. Unlike some peers, I was new to the Rutherford public school system during my freshman year. I didn't know anyone but I quickly grew to know people and made friends throughout my high school years. What I loved most about Rutherford was the art department. I always had a love for art and being in the art department, I felt really in my element. There was not a school year that went by where I didn't take at least 1 art course. The teachers in these departments are also so welcoming and very helpful to those that want to pursue their art journey. Even for those who aren't art students, there is a little something for everybody to enjoy. The amount of courses that you can take is incredible from robotics, textiles, business, computer programming, photography, etc. I truly did enjoy my time in this school, even with the interrupted time during covid.... Read 47 reviews

• grade A

• grade A+

• Total schools 5

• Students 2,574

• Montclair, NJ•

• School District

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  46 reviews

Senior: The Montclair Public School system has consistently made great efforts towards making my high school experience a safe and effective learning environment, but I cannot say the same for some of my peers. I have been in all honors and Advanced Placement classes ever since that was even an option but throughout my entire middle school and high school experience my classes have been majority white. Montclair HighSchool as itself is a very diverse institution but whether conscious or not, classes have been segregated for years. I believe this to be the product of the major wealth gap in the city due to redlining, the town is clearcut right down the middle and majority of Montclair's Black population loves on the poorer, redlined side. Its further away from the schools and many children of color cannot afford the same tools and tutors as their white counterparts so they don't feel confident enough to join honors and AP classes. The school needs to take greater measures to correct this.... Read 46 reviews

• grade A

• grade A+

• Total schools 11

• Students 6,441