2023 Best College Prep Public High Schools in Nebraska

• Millard Public Schools, NE•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.14 out of 5  458 reviews

Senior: I love how diverse Millard North is. You are introduced to people of diverse backgrounds, thoughts, and experiences. Also, there are many ways to get involved and make an impact at our school. You can join many different clubs and activities to explore your passions. You can also customize your academic experience at Millard North. There are college level, honors, or standard courses here. You can academically challenge yourself or take the classes best suited to your needs. Overall, Millard North has great resources and experiences to prepare you for your future!... Read 458 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Average SAT 1380

• Average ACT 28

• Elkhorn Public Schools, NE•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.16 out of 5  127 reviews

Senior: I love Elkhorn South because it has great facilities for athletes such as myself, along with teachers that are great with working with students who are also athletes. Our counselors prepare us VERY well for college in terms of classes we take, the difficulty of classes, the resources for college help, and so much more. I love the people, and the friends I have made through sports, classes, clubs, and school held events!... Read 127 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Average SAT 1370

• Average ACT 28

• Lincoln Public Schools, NE•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.04 out of 5  301 reviews

Alum: Lincoln East has a lot of great teachers! Most of them really want you to succeed! The school admin is fine, I think they could have been more friendly. The students aren't the best honestly. There are a lot of problems with the student body but you can find a good crowd, Personally I'd recommend club members of things like Key club. One more thing the arts programs in this school, man I could not speak more highly of! I loved every second of my arts programs!... Read 301 reviews

• grade A

• grade A minus

• Average SAT 1380

• Average ACT 27

• Elkhorn Public Schools, NE•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.12 out of 5  156 reviews

Senior: My experience at Elkhorn High was very memorable. Because of it’s challenging and rigorous curriculum, it brought out some of my best qualities and helped me develop a work ethic that will set me up for success throughout college and the rest of my life. I learned so much at Elkhorn and I feel very prepared for college! However, there are times where the amount of work that teachers assign us can be a little overwhelming, and I think students could have a slightly lighter workload while achieving the same amount of preparation for college. I moved to Elkhorn my sophomore year, and making friends was hard for me initially. Luckily, through sports, I was able to make some close friends that share some of my core values and are able to have fun. I have many great experiences at Elkhorn High and the high school experience is something i will never forget!... Read 156 reviews

• grade A

• grade A minus

• Average SAT 1240

• Average ACT 27

• Lincoln Public Schools, NE•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  318 reviews

Sophomore: Southwest is all around an amazing school. There are a wide variety of options for students to earn the credit required for graduation. Because of this, there's something for everyone there. There's an abundance of incredible extracurriculars and their sports are all amazing. The teachers promote communication and independence, and the block scheduling provides students with the opportunity to graduate their junior year. Only having four classes a day really simplifies your schedule and allows you to be more focused and engaged in class with a clearer mind. Southwest is also an incredibly diverse school, with lots of advocacy (both pre-established and encouraged) for minority groups.... Read 318 reviews

• grade A

• grade A minus

• Average SAT 1320

• Average ACT 27

• Omaha Public Schools, NE•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.16 out of 5  328 reviews

Senior: Overall my experience with academics and the teachers has been amazing! There are a lot of great programs and clubs. For the most part Central is very inclusive, however I do wish they had more inclusive facilities for the LGBT+ community(Such as gender neutral restrooms that are actually maintained and kept open).... Read 328 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A minus

• Average SAT 1210

• Average ACT 24

• Westside Community Schools, NE•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.04 out of 5  557 reviews

Senior: I’ve had a great experience as a student at Westside! As a student, I’ve had many privileges including but not limited to a school permitted iPad, fantastic staff who accept their students, delicious school lunches, advanced classes offered, and more! As a student who was opted in to the district, I’m extremely grateful for the experiences and opportunities I’ve had.... Read 557 reviews

• grade A

• grade A minus

• Average SAT 1300

• Average ACT 26

• Lincoln Public Schools, NE•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  328 reviews

Senior: What I loved most about Southeast was the music program. Over my four years of being there I felt as if my music teacher has helped me grow as a singer. I also love the friends I made in the music department because of how everyone was so encouraging and accepting. Some of my best friends comes from my choir classes. I also think Southeast did a great job in getting me involved in activities and clubs. I joined Ping Pong club, Dance club, Cross Country, and Tennis and had the best time ever! I think the clubs and activities I was involved in helped me meet people and overall made my high school experience even better.... Read 328 reviews

• grade A

• grade A minus

• Average SAT 1310

• Average ACT 26

• Millard Public Schools, NE•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  455 reviews

Alum: Though I only got the chance to go here for a year and a half, I wouldn't have wanted to graduate from anywhere else. Millard West has the best administrative team on Earth! I have been to four different school districts throughout k-12 and I have never felt more important/cared about by my higher-ups. During my time at Millard West, I was able to regain confidence and become more involved in the things I love. As someone who struggles with mental illness, I also felt a great amount of support when things got tough. I will forever admire Millard West for what it has taught me.... Read 455 reviews

• grade A

• grade A minus

• Average SAT 1320

• Average ACT 27

• Papillion-La Vista School District, NE•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  346 reviews

Junior: PLHS is a wonderful school, and everyone is very open and warm. The teachers are willing to go out of their way for students - academically or otherwise - and are brilliant themselves. For you foodies, the food choices are excellent. There’s usually five main meal options. The students at this school are also really open and understanding of each other, which is amazing considering most of us have at least one mental issue. Everyone is really inclusive of the special need students as well, and make them feel cared about. There are many academic options and levels, so you’ll be sure to find out what’s right for you! I highly recommend PLHS to anyone coming to Papillion La Vista.... Read 346 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A minus

• Average SAT 1230

• Average ACT 26

• Lincoln Public Schools, NE•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.22 out of 5  275 reviews

Niche User: I really liked the teachers, the oppurtunities, and the environment of the student body. The building itself is very old so it comes with all the cons of an old building (bugs, mice, mildew) but they do a good job of maintaining it. Because it's so old they have a lot of classes and dual credit oppurtunities available only at lincoln high. The teachers all try to build relationships with the students and the school spirit is amazing!... Read 275 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade B+

• Average SAT 1310

• Average ACT 25

• Millard Public Schools, NE•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  366 reviews

Senior: My favorite part about Millard South is the culture. At Millard South it is encouraged to be apart of as many things as possible. Being apart of clubs and extracurriculars at Millard South really made my high school experience enjoyable! Millard South also offers a lot of flexibility when it comes to schedule and being able to choose your classes. As a student it is great to be able to pick classes you really want to be in. One thing about Millard South that sets it apart from other schools in the Omaha metro area is its business department. The business department at Millard South is filled with amazing teachers who help each student in their class to find what they love to do. The classes provide skills that can be used in everyday life and beyond high school. Over all, being at Millard South has taught me great lessons and helped me grow into a young adult and I am proud to be a Millard South Patriot!... Read 366 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade B+

• Average SAT 1230

• Average ACT 25

• Bellevue Public Schools, NE•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  328 reviews

Alum: The academics and college readiness at Bellevue West are outstanding. You can take advantage of many opportunities through clubs or partnerships with colleges for credit. The 2022-2023 school year will introduce a new college education course that will prepare those who want to become teachers. It gives you a look at what college work can be like and prepares you for the career of your interest. I was given the opportunity to work on my CNA with Metropolitan Community College, gaining high school and college credits all at once. There is also the choice of dual enrollment, depending on specific classes, saving you a lot of money for college. The sports, community, safety, arts, representation, and overall educational goals for students make this school great. My senior year was by far the best year of high school, and although there were some hard times when the pandemic came along, I am still proud to be a T-bird - where we fly the T-bird way!... Read 328 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B

• Average SAT 1100

• Average ACT 24

• Kearney Public Schools, NE•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  174 reviews

Freshman: I love this school with all my heart. The support and classes provided here help students discover what they want to do and what they enjoy. It’s also a beautiful building with things that include everyone!... Read 174 reviews

• grade B

• grade B

• Average SAT 1260

• Average ACT 25

• Papillion-La Vista School District, NE•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.03 out of 5  265 reviews

Junior: Papillion La Vista South High school is a great school. We have clubs popping up based on different interests of students every year and our school spirit is at it's highest during our game days. Our Show choir, band and ROTC also are amazing. The Students and staff are all good people and are all really nice! There are few issues that arise so everyone is pretty relaxed.... Read 265 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade B

• Average SAT 1200

• Average ACT 26

• North Bend Central Public Schools, NE•

• 8-12

• •
  Rating 4.25 out of 5  36 reviews

Senior: NBC is a small-town school with just a little over 300 students. This allows you to have real connections with the teachers and makes learning fun! The small size also allows students to know just about everyone they come across and this creates a very friendly environment. The administration is nothing short of excellent with teachers who actually know how to teach and faculty members who are very kind understanding. I haven't had a teacher that I felt didn't care about my education and even though I've given them a tough time they stay positive and try to find ways to help. Another great thing about NBC is that it is a beautiful building with great infrastructure and is very easy to navigate for new students and the sports programs are nothing less than exceptional with tough coaches who focus more on building character rather than winning, but that doesn't mean it doesn't carry over. with many state titles held by sports and extracurriculars NBC has lots of pride. GO Tigers!... Read 36 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B

• Average SAT —

• Average ACT 24

• Lincoln Public Schools, NE•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.95 out of 5  248 reviews

Senior: North Star is a high school that for some reason holds a poor reputation to those who are not in attendance to the school. However North Star is a great school that is always on the up and up. Groups at LNS are constantly trying to reach out and help out the community including all its students. North Star is also a very diverse school and that is something we are proud of. When I was an eighth grader getting ready to go to high school I was a little nervous to go to North Star. Everyone was always saying they disliked it and I thought I might be unhappy at this highs school. I was totally wrong and I’m here to tell you: go to North Star and become a Gator! This school has amazing teachers, some that you’ll keep in touch with for the rest of your life. Every adult at this school wants the best for you and can’t wait to see you succeed! Along with having a great sports community we have an amazing Music family, and so much more! You’ll find your people here.... Read 248 reviews

• grade B

• grade B

• Average SAT 1220

• Average ACT 23

• Bellevue Public Schools, NE•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  203 reviews

Senior: I have really enjoyed attending Bellevue East High School. They provide great opportunities to take college level courses while in high school and give student the opportunity to lower college costs by having accumulated college credits prior to graduating. The school is also quite diverse and has allowed me the opportunity to interact with and learn the traditions of many different cultures. It is so important is today's world to be able to work with and understand various cultures and how one's interactions and demeanor may be construed by the other individual. With this background, I think I will have a good understanding of how to interact with different cultures both in college and in the workplace and how to have a respectful discourse, especially if our opinions on a topic differ. It is imperative to be inclusive in ones thinking.... Read 203 reviews

• grade B

• grade B

• Average SAT 1120

• Average ACT 24

• Seward Public Schools, NE•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  111 reviews

Senior: At Seward High School, there are so many activities to get involved in. For instance, FFA, FBLA, FCCLA, Key Club, Yearbook, and so much more. These activities allow students to experience the full-on life of a bluejay. Also, with their outstanding academics, Seward High School also gives students various opportunities that get them ready for college and their future.... Read 111 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B

• Average SAT 1230

• Average ACT 26

• Omaha Public Schools, NE•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  254 reviews

Junior: As a Junior at Omaha North Magnet High School, I have to say that the overall experience from the environment, consoling, and after school programs make this school a great one. It offers scholarships available to all students and has several student leadership clubs. One problem I do have with the school however is how mediocre the food is. The food is either lukewarm or sometimes way too hot for cooked food. The smoking and vaping in overcrowded bathrooms is a big problem as well.... Read 254 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B

• Average SAT 1210

• Average ACT 23

• Chadron Public Schools, NE•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.04 out of 5  78 reviews

Senior: Educational opportunities are abundant and great ways to build up experience and extra education. School takes safety and education very seriously, however, sports and other extracurriculars are also huge aspects of the school life.... Read 78 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B

• Average SAT 1300

• Average ACT 25

• Bennington Public Schools, NE•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  54 reviews

Senior: Bennington High School is a great school to go to. All the teachers really care for the students, and you will learn a lot in 4 years. Bennington has many strong extracurriculars and clubs as well as a positive community. The only complaint I would have is a few missing classes, such as AP Government and any AP Physics class, but besides that, Bennington is a great place to get your high school diploma!... Read 54 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade B

• Average SAT 1280

• Average ACT 27

• Lincoln Public Schools, NE•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  169 reviews

Junior: A 5-star review for Lincoln Northeast wouldn't be typical to most reviews from high schoolers. But it's genuine for me. Northeast has been the place where I've experienced some of the best times of my life. I've become an open person, less shy and hidden in my shell. I've made friends with other students and teachers, relationships that will stick with me forever. I've thrown myself into academics and art, joined a program to paint a mural onto the walls of my school, and NHS, where I've realized my love of volunteering. Life as a Northeast student changed me and my life. The environment, but better yet, the teachers and students, have inspired me to become a teacher myself. And my dream job would be to teach at the very school I intend now. The love for Northeast isn't wide-spread. But it grows in me. I love my school, and think a 5-star review is fitting, perfectly.... Read 169 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B

• Average SAT 1160

• Average ACT 24

• Omaha Public Schools, NE•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.62 out of 5  373 reviews

Senior: I really enjoyed the school spirit that my surrounded myself and my school. The bonds that I have created with my teachers is something that I can carry with me forever. They have become great resources that I can use in the future. Burke has created a positive environment for both my academic and mental abilities. Burke has taught me social and financial skills that have become useful. I have also met some great friends that I can forever cherish through my time at Burke High School. I highly recommend everyone going to Burke because it is a great experience!... Read 373 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B

• Average SAT 1070

• Average ACT 24

• Pleasanton Public Schools, NE•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  8 reviews

Senior: Pleasanton is a very small community where everyone is friendly to one another. Pleasanton offers numerous extracurricular activities that all have a high participation rate. The school pride is very apparent throughout the student body and the community. Pleasanton also offers amazing academic opportunities with outstanding teachers to help prepare students for college and the workforce. The school also offers several dual credit courses that gives the opportunity of students to complete up to a full years worth of college credits before graduation. The only problem with the school is that the administration is somewhat restricting to the students compared to other area schools. The school enforces a zero tolerance cellphone policy and it often restricts web access to materials that are needed to complete course work. At one time there was a ban on hooded sweatshirts for no apparent reason.... Read 8 reviews

• grade C+

• grade B

• Average SAT 1230

• Average ACT 23