2019 Most Diverse Public High Schools in the New York City Area

Most Diverse

1,126 results

Edward R. Murrow High School
New York City Geographic District No. 21, NY
8-12
724
1 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area
Alum: My experience at Edward R. Murrow High School was an unforgettable, rewarding experience. Enrolled in the Communication Arts Program gave me the opportunity to participate in interdisciplinary studies. The Forensic Science Department motivated me to pursue criminal justice in college and study forensics more in depth. Today, I now work for the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Thank you Edward R. Murrow for providing me with fundamental education!
Read 724 Reviews
A-
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Diversity
3,812 Students
20:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Millennium Brooklyn High School
New York City Geographic District No. 15, NY
8-12
85
2 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area
Senior: I genuinely love being a student at MBHS. I cannot imagine being anywhere else because I believe that I've found my niche here. I've met so many wonderful people that I get to call friends and the support system here for students is wonderful. The teachers are caring and easy to talk to. At Millennium Brooklyn, I've gotten the chance to do research, intern, take AP classes, and do large presentations. The school is smaller than many high schools in NYC and we have really strong academics that challenge students to do their best. The only bad thing I can think of is that we are kind of cramped in the hall ways but I really do love MBHS. Go Phoenix!
Read 85 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Diversity
621 Students
11:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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The Brooklyn Latin School
New York City Geographic District No. 14, NY
9-12
199
3 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area
Senior: This is the smallest specialized high school with around 900 students total. If you like intimacy between teachers and your pupils this is definitely the school for you. However, this school focuses on public speaking including classwide seminars and declamations. These assessments teach you the skills to form unique, persuasive and clear arguments. If you want to be a political figure or lawyer I would recommend this school. If you are really shy or have stage fright this is not a good school for you to attend. This school participates in the International Baccalaureate program. In other schools families would have to pay around 1200 dollars for their children to participate in the program, however, this school pays for each student's participation. This causes the school to have disadvantages. Most of the school's funding goes towards the students' education, and as a result heating, air conditioning and the overall maintenance of the building is poor.
Read 199 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Diversity
666 Students
16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Smithtown Christian School
Private School
Smithtown, NY
PK, K-12
39
Alum: At Smithtown Christian, school isn't just school; both teachers and students become family. My Earth Science teacher from sophomore year is now inviting me to her baby shower three years later. Teachers truly love their students at SCS. When it came to academics, I felt more than prepared for college. The academics are challenging as well as accommodating. The only thing I would have changed was the extracurricular aspect. More school clubs would have been nice to see.
Read 39 Reviews
B+
Overall Niche Grade
529 Students
12:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Dr. Ronald E. McNair Academic High School
Jersey City Public Schools, NJ
9-12
217
4 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area
Alum: It has been a tough 4 years in McNair Academic, but I believe that McNair is truly one of the most outstanding schools in Hudson County, if not, the state of New Jersey. Compared the other schools in Hudson County, McNair has the most available AP classes, and most of the secular subjects are honors courses, so you're practically in college already! McNair is not just exceptional in the realm of academics, but there is a sense of community that you cannot find at any other school. And as a member of the LGBTQ community, the acceptance and love I received from my peers made high school worthwhile.
However, the facilities available to the students are not entirely up to date, and not varied either. It's what you would expect out of any ordinary high school, but I feel as if there could be so much more for the "smartest kids in Jersey City". McNair also concentrates too much on academics and college, there should be an increase in focus in the arts, and also, school spirit.
Read 217 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Diversity
710 Students
14:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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County Prep High School
Public School
Jersey City, NJ
9-12
202
5 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area
Sophomore: County Prep HS is a place of opportunity. Here you can explore various interests, such as theatre, music production, culinary, medical science, psychology, business, you name it! This school is very lively and big on diversity, our lenient dress code let's us dress in whatever you want, however you want (the food is pretty delicious too). You will always find a teacher that you can relate to, I have several that I look up to, each one is different in both their personality and their efficient ways of teaching. Our guidance counselors AND school therapists are good resources if you have any questions or doubts, because everyone here just wants to see you succeed, and will be helpful as long as you are willing to put in the effort as well. Overall, I couldn’t find myself in a school better than County Prep, because of the creative leg room they give you and for the opportunities they offer! If you’re a NJ student who is very ambitious and wants to reach for the stars, consider us!
Read 202 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Diversity
782 Students
9:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Midwood High School at Brooklyn College
New York City Geographic District No. 22, NY
9-12
1,118
6 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area
Senior: Midwood is incredibly diverse with a student body that is incomparable to other public schools!
It's a community within a school of over 4,000 students (currently) that are all connected with each other despite the school's size.
I'm a senior now, And this is the best thing I have to say about Midwood High School in my 4 years of attendance. However, it's size can at times be a hindrance.
For that reason, I think Midwood High School could increase their staff so more students can receive help, And the school oficals aren't spread thin.
I also feel that Midwood could improve its college readiness because I felt that I relied on too many outside sources for help in the college process. They don't have the time to constantly walk with us through the process, but sometimes us students needed that support.
Otherwise, Midwood is a great institution for any kid.
Read 1,118 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Diversity
3,998 Students
24:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Manhattan Hunter Science High School
New York City Geographic District No. 3, NY
9-12
145
7 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area
Alum: My experience at Manhattan Hunter Science Highschool was amazing. The low number of students in the school made it possible for class sizes to be small and intimate, relationships with teachers and among students were genuine. Everyone in the school knew each other, all the teachers and staff knew me by name! There were many clubs available, I myself participated in a culinary club and teacher club. Thanks to this school being an early college school, I am pursuing my education at Hunter College.
Read 145 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Diversity
446 Students
18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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North Brunswick Township High School
North Brunswick Township Public Schools, NJ
9-12
297
8 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area
Junior: North Brunswick Township High School is flourishing with many cultures. The student body is comprised of 25% Asian, 25% Hispanic, 25% African American, and 25% white students. It reflects the idea of America being a melting pot. However, many minorites in the North Brunswick public school systems tend to struggle because almost all of the teachers are white, leaving the students with no one to relate to. While the school’s resources and facilities are definitely something to brag about, the inclusion of many students by their teachers could use some growth and development.
Read 297 Reviews
A-
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Diversity
1,751 Students
12:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Metropolitan Expeditionary Learning School
New York City Geographic District No. 28, NY
6-12
59
9 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area
Senior: The Metropolitan Expeditionary Learning School is a college-bound preparatory school that hosts grades 6-12. The diversity in the high school portion is greater than in the middle school part, but I would say they are almost equivalent. The education is clearly driven to promote a seamless passage into college life after high school, but the administration tries harder to provide this experience to people who have shown higher success rates through grades and extracurriculars. There is a uniform at the school which many students do not like, but it somewhat helps bullying and discrimination against other students. The courses that are required make it almost impossible not to graduate if every or most classes are passed throughout one's high school career. They are lacking in the clubs and activities department as they do not have a wide variety of options due to a lack of budget.
Read 59 Reviews
B
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Diversity
827 Students
13:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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NYC iSchool
New York City Geographic District No. 2, NY
9-12
144
10 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area
Senior: NYC iSchool is one of those unique high schools that many students and parents outside our community will check to see if we are a private institution- based on many factors... including our peculiar name! However we are public, and truly one of the most different public experiences in New York City. Entering my sophomore year at this school as a transfer student opened many doors with opportunities such as internships, educational programs from colleges, and even a volunteer trip abroad for high school students. Despite the 4-5 flights of stairs to get to the school, the environment is filled with students who are open to make friends with anyone and teachers who will often go out of their ways to make sure each student has all necessities to understand lessons being taught. Classes are customized by students, with the opportunity to apply to AP's in sophomore year. I loved a lot of the modules at the ischool from theater production to pop up restaurant and astrobiology.
Read 144 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Diversity
458 Students
16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Franklin High School
Franklin Township Public Schools, NJ
9-12
586
11 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area
Senior: Franklin High School is the best school. I love my school. This school has a number of athletics and social programs available for students. There are clubs and opportunities that allow the children to grow. With its solid to excellent programs for academics and extracurriculars, Franklin High School certainly has many of the elements of a great secondary institution. Opportunities for individual students to excel both in and out of the classroom abound. More strikingly, most of the students from disadvantaged socioeconomic backgrounds find here a place to grow academically and find their paths to good levels of success. However, the recent history of turnover in school leadership may hamper other strong efforts. We'll see. Go, Franklin!
Read 586 Reviews
B+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Diversity
2,149 Students
12:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Forest Hills High School
New York City Geographic District No. 28, NY
8-12
713
12 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area
Senior: There is times where I think to myself, “Wow this school is filled with so many people, how can you connect with anyone?” Well, it’s the exact opposite! Being a senior at Forest Hills High Schools has given me quite an advantage to be able to meet new people while being apart of clubs, going to events, etc. It may seem overwhelming as a freshman however, if you don’t make an effort to reach out, there won’t be as big of an experience. Start early!
Read 713 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Diversity
3,838 Students
21:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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High School Math Science & Engineering at The City College of New York (CCNY)
New York City Geographic District No. 5, NY
9-12
149
13 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area
Senior: After spending almost 4 years as a student in this school, I believe it was the best choice I've ever made. I originally applied to HSMSE because they had an anime club. But after I came to the school, and left the anime club only to pop in every now and then, I found so much more. The teachers are all certified in their concentrations, real engineers walk the hallways, and college professors lecture about Hemingway in front of my desk. Since it's a small school, I'm familiar with almost every person in the school, often forgetting who is in what grade. Being on a college campus also has its perks. We have access to the college libraries for reports, lab facilities, and a quad to enjoy lunch with friends. The guidance counselors know us by name and can recommend various colleges based on our interests and career aspirations. I mean, we aren't rated third best in New York City for nothing!
Read 149 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Diversity
476 Students
16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Sewanhaka High School
Sewanhaka Central High School District, NY
7-12
179
14 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area
Alum: Sewanhaka High School was an extremely diverse hub of race, opinion, and activities, making it one of the best schools in the district. It's variety in clubs had a great appeal, both good for getting connecting and boosting the resume. The teachers were helpful both in and outside the classroom; finding someone that could help you with any issue was super simple. The diversity in the population also broadened students perspectives, educating them about different cultures and ideas. There is a general aura of respect that comes with the name Sewanhaka, and many of the staff there actually graduated and came back to give back to the community; sharing much of this school's abundant opportunities. If I had a second choice to choose a school, I would still choose this one.
Read 179 Reviews
B
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Diversity
1,627 Students
17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Bloomfield High School
Bloomfield Board of Education, NJ
9-12
270
15 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area
Alum: Some teachers care about the future and integrity of their students. Some others do not really use methods to make students involved with the subject. Counselors and directive personnel are not really present with everyone in the school. ESL students might seem marginalized in the school not only by students but also by staff (personal experience). Regardless, there are many others who truly care about the students and make the most of their classes to not only teach about their subject, but also to teach students important lessons about life in general. Overall, the school could try to emphasize getting more involved with students and create a stronger community
Read 270 Reviews
B
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Diversity
1,942 Students
12:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Bard High School Early College Queens
New York City Geographic District No. 24, NY
9-12
301
16 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area
Senior: I feel honored to have had the opportunity to pursue a high school education at Bard High School. Bard is a very open-minded and accepting school. It is home to hundreds of diverse students in all departments: from race, to sexuality, and beyond. As a mixed kid myself, I have never felt excluded at Bard thanks to the amazing faculty and student population! There are school events put on occasionally for people to come together and discuss issues, and if I were to change anything about the school, it would be to increase the number of these events because they are truly eye-opening. The support everyone provides one another at this school is phenomenal and students are undoubtedly prepared for the future.
Read 301 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Diversity
600 Students
18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Susan E. Wagner High School
New York City Geographic District No. 31, NY
9-12
478
17 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area
Sophomore: Wagner high school is a place where ur child can learn a lot and the academy’s they are amazing. All the teachers are very nice, and help you understand a topic if your having trouble with it. Wagner has the best sport teams out of every high school in Staten Island. The students at Wagner high school come out to be very successful in the future, some teachers there were even students at Susan E Wagner high school once!
Read 478 Reviews
A-
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Diversity
3,276 Students
21:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Brien McMahon High School
Norwalk School District, CT
9-12
367
18 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area
Senior: My past four years at Brien McMahon High School has been a remarkable institute that has given me the resources to expand upon my knowledge. The classes and faculty really challenge you to become the best student possible. The faculty is a big support system and if you are ever struggling they gladly step in to assist you in anyway. There are also many other ways for you to find yourself with a support system, that being the many clubs the school has to offer like Peer Mediation, Peer Mentoring and more! Brien McMahon is also the most diverse high school in Connecticut which speaks volumes to our unique character.
Read 367 Reviews
A-
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Diversity
1,663 Students
13:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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John F. Kennedy Memorial High School
Woodbridge Township School District, NJ
9-12
139
19 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area
Junior: The school is so ethnically diverse and the classes are challenging but fun! You always learn new things about the different cultures. Most people are Asian (i.e. South Asian), but there are also many Dominicans and other Hispanic peoples, White people, and even a couple of Arab peoples. White people beware though, racism is rampid since most people don't understand that you can be racist to whites. Spanish class is used all through out the day no matter your ethnicity. Most students take AP or college level classes and JFKMHS is rated #1 in the district. Sports isn't as good for the boys, but the girls kill it in every sport.
Read 139 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Diversity
1,319 Students
12:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Frank Sinatra School of the Arts High School
New York City Geographic District No. 30, NY
9-12
265
20 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area
Senior: Being in a society full of multi-talented artist made me work twice as hard then the pace that I was going. My favorite part of FSSA is the environment. You are consistently surrounded by people who want to be great. FSSA taught me that experience is the best teacher. There are many opportunities for you to be exposed to. The performing arts programs that my school offers should be in all schools to continue to expose students to "world-wide" languages of art. Tony Bennett the founder of my school and his wife Susan Benedetto dreamt of creating a school that would teach students a lifelong lesson of appreciating their uniqueness. If it was not for Frank Sinatra’s talented gifts that inspired Tony Bennett, then I would not be the artist that I am today.
Read 265 Reviews
A-
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Diversity
830 Students
18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Brooklyn International High School at Waters Edge
New York City Geographic District No. 13, NY
9-12
42
21 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area
Alum: Bihs has not only been a school but a gift for me. It taught me so much and made me learn who I am as a person. Coming to a new country isn't easy but this school has made it a little bit easier. They take you with open arms. I never felt scared to speak my broken English my first year because their were other students like me who wanted to learn and improve their English. The staff and teachers are amazing. They treat you like their own child. If you have problems or need advice, they are there for you! They prepared me for college and are very involve to make sure you won't be alone in that process. They look colleges with you and scholarships that are available so that you will be ready once you graduate.
Thank you BIHS family!
Read 42 Reviews
B+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Diversity
358 Students
17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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West Orange High School
West Orange Public Schools, NJ
9-12
341
22 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area
Senior: I have been attending West Orange High School for four years.The administration is very strict and stress the rules for our safety.Our programs after school are phenomenal, students are involved with the sports, theater, music, political, and entertainment programs. Academically there are an abundant amount of classes to take along with multiple advance classes.West Orange is very diverse, the families are very involved in all activities taking place in and outside the school. The safety of our students are a priority, all doors in our school have a ID swipe to get in, along with all doors have alarms from the inside, if opened it will be activated. Within the school are eight security guards and a police officer.At all times students, visitors and facility wear Ids and if not will be guided to security for one or exited from the building.West Orange High School are a family of Mountaineers!
Read 341 Reviews
A-
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Diversity
1,975 Students
11:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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High Tech High School
Public School
N Bergen, NJ
9-12
244
23 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area
Senior: My experience at High Tech High School has been a phenomenal opportunity for me to explore, not just the academics but external benefits as well. As a Biomedical Major student, I was able to perform the task of a forensic scientist, geneticist, dietitian, medical laboratory technician, cardiovascular technologist, and many more. This allowed me to specifically target the field I am passionate about. The connectivity allowed me to participate in science fair competitions all across the state. Also, with the help of the administrators, my fellow colleagues and I were able to start a student-based company called Hive Tech Honey, and today, our company has reached the markets in New York City in the just span of 2 years. Along with the endless opportunities, the vibe in the school atmosphere is optimistic and encouraging allowing the students to expand beyond their horizons.
Read 244 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Diversity
940 Students
12:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Scholars' Academy
New York City Geographic District No. 27, NY
6-12
240
24 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area
Senior: Scholar's Academy is a very good school to go to for both middle and high school. All seven years gets you ready for college without missing a credit. There are guidance counselors that help you with the college process and with choosing amongst the various classes. However, my only complaint will be some regulations and how strict the school is with grades and punctuality. In the Scholars' Academy, it is ingrained in the students' mind that a grade of 85 is failing. In a way, it helps the students in taking their grades and classes seriously, however, it also takes a toll on the mind if a student happens to get a 70 or even an 80 in a class or on a test. This aspect does not prepare for the reality of college where it is commonplace that students get B's in their classes and it's passing. Despite this, the school has great diversity, it has plenty of clubs to choose from and you can create your own club, and has various sports that are all fun and engaging.
Read 240 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Diversity
1,306 Students
22:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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Columbia Secondary School
New York City Geographic District No. 5, NY
6-12
93
25 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area
Senior: I attended CSS from 6th all the way to 12th grade, and was quite happy with my experience. For its incredible diversity, strong sense of community, and challenging academics, I'd highly recommend CSS. Being able to take CU classes in my later years was a great opportunity, and the small grade sizes always meant that teachers built personal relationships with their students. All that being said, CSS is definitely not a typical selective NYC magnet school, and if that is the experience you're looking for I'd recommend against CSS. The school lacks proper funding, as evident by the cramped hallways and lack of a library, and the sense of competition found at schools like Bronx Science or Stuyvesant is completely absent. That isn't to say CSS isn't difficult if you want it to be - its just that the core curriculum (and administration) never push students too far our of their comfort zone. Overall, I'd definitely recommend the school.
Read 93 Reviews
A
Overall Niche Grade
A+
Diversity
668 Students
17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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The Beekman School
Private School
New York, NY
9-12
1
Niche User: My son has a wonderful experience. The individualized learning has helped him grow.
Read 1 Review
A
Overall Niche Grade
80 Students
5:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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1 of 46

Edward R. Murrow High School

Millennium Brooklyn High School

The Brooklyn Latin School

Smithtown Christian School

Dr. Ronald E. McNair Academic High School

County Prep High School

Midwood High School at Brooklyn College

Manhattan Hunter Science High School

North Brunswick Township High School

Metropolitan Expeditionary Learning School

NYC iSchool

Franklin High School

Forest Hills High School

High School Math Science & Engineering at The City College of New York (CCNY)

Sewanhaka High School

Bloomfield High School

Bard High School Early College Queens

Susan E. Wagner High School

Brien McMahon High School

John F. Kennedy Memorial High School

Frank Sinatra School of the Arts High School

Brooklyn International High School at Waters Edge

West Orange High School

High Tech High School

Scholars' Academy

Columbia Secondary School

The Beekman School