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K-12 Schools in the New York City Area
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2018 Most Diverse Public High Schools in the New York City AreaAbout this List

Explore the most diverse public high schools serving your area. Ranking based on ethnic diversity statistics from the U.S. Department of Education and student and parent reviews of ethnic, economic, and cultural diversity. Read more on how this ranking was calculated.

Most Diverse
1,121 results

  1. Dr. Ronald E. McNair Academic High School

    • Jersey City Public Schools, NJ
    • 9-12
    • 216
    1 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 216 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Diversity
    • 710 Students
    • 14:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  2. Edward R. Murrow High School

    • New York City Geographic District No. 21, NY
    • 8-12
    • 714
    2 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 714 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Diversity
    • 3,812 Students
    • 21:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  3. Bard High School Early College Queens

    • New York City Geographic District No. 24, NY
    • 9-12
    • 298
    3 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 298 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Diversity
    • 600 Students
    • 19:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  5. Midwood High School at Brooklyn College

    • New York City Geographic District No. 22, NY
    • 9-12
    • 1,107
    4 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 1,107 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Diversity
    • 3,998 Students
    • 25:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  6. Bloomfield High School

    • Bloomfield Board of Education, NJ
    • 9-12
    • 265
    5 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 265 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Diversity
    • 1,942 Students
    • 13:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  7. Forest Hills High School

    • New York City Geographic District No. 28, NY
    • 8-12
    • 708
    6 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 708 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Diversity
    • 3,838 Students
    • 21:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  8. Sponsored

    Avenues: The World School

    • Private School
    • New York, NY
    • PK, K-12
    • 10

    Senior: It has been an amazing experience! I came in from public school in the suburbs. The school is located in the center of Chelsea. This is incredibly useful for art classes, as they do not exist solely within the class room. They have amazing study abroad programs as well. I went on a two week trip to New Zealand to do scientific research, attended the Student Diversity Leadership Conference in Louisville, Kentucky, and went to SXSW as a credited press journalist with my student publication. The teachers do not have closed work spaces so they are always available for conversation. The academics are all all discussion based. All classrooms have circular tables, so no one can hide in the back. This also makes the teacher a member of the class, and not a superior figure who stands tall and above students.
    Read 10 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,444 Students
    • 7:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  9. The Brooklyn Latin School

    • New York City Geographic District No. 14, NY
    • 9-12
    • 197
    7 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 197 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Diversity
    • 666 Students
    • 17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  10. Manhattan Hunter Science High School

    • New York City Geographic District No. 3, NY
    • 9-12
    • 142
    8 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 142 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Diversity
    • 446 Students
    • 18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  11. High Tech High School

    • Public School
    • N Bergen, NJ
    • 9-12
    • 240
    9 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 240 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Diversity
    • 940 Students
    • 12:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  13. High School Math Science & Engineering at The City College of New York (CCNY)

    • New York City Geographic District No. 5, NY
    • 9-12
    • 143
    10 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 143 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Diversity
    • 476 Students
    • 17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  14. Brien McMahon High School

    • Norwalk School District, CT
    • 9-12
    • 362
    11 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 362 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Diversity
    • 1,663 Students
    • 14:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  15. North Brunswick Township High School

    • North Brunswick Township Public Schools, NJ
    • 9-12
    • 296
    12 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 296 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Diversity
    • 1,751 Students
    • 13:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  16. Sponsored

    Academy Of Our Lady of Peace

    • Private School
    • New Providence, NJ
    • PK, K-8
    • 8

    Parent: I couldn’t be happier with the education and community my children are receiving at Lady of Peace. We started attending this school for a full day kindergarten program and we stayed since we are so happy. My kids are now in 4th and kindergarten. The entire faculty is invested in educating my children and giving them a sense of confidence and kindness. We love this school and all the teachers/facility! When you have kids that can’t wait to go to school each day, you know they are somewhere special.
    Read 8 Reviews

    • NG
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 190 Students
    • 12:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  17. Metropolitan Expeditionary Learning School

    • New York City Geographic District No. 28, NY
    • 6-12
    • 56
    13 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 56 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Diversity
    • 827 Students
    • 13:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  18. County Prep High School

    • Public School
    • Jersey City, NJ
    • 9-12
    • 198
    14 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 198 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Diversity
    • 782 Students
    • 10:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  19. Franklin High School

    • Franklin Township Public Schools, NJ
    • 9-12
    • 579
    15 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 579 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Diversity
    • 2,149 Students
    • 13:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  20. Benjamin N. Cardozo High School

    • New York City Geographic District No. 26, NY
    • 9-12
    • 769
    16 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area

    Senior: The school is great as well as the teachers! The school environment makes learning easy and fun. All the staff members are very understanding and easy to speak to when needed. I had a great experience starting from freshmen year up until now. I had no issues or problems with students, teachers, or staff members.
    Read 769 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Diversity
    • 3,663 Students
    • 25:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  21. Manhattan International High School

    • New York City Geographic District No. 2, NY
    • 9-12
    • 53
    17 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area

    Senior: I am Kristian Punu, a current Senior in Manhattan International High School. I have been in this school since I was freshman, and I just want to say that it was a pleasure being part of such a very kind, and welcoming school/organization. Furthermore, MIHS offers a DIVERSE students from all over the world, with over 50 languages from different types of students. These diversities help me to be developed as a matured, and strong young man, learning from different types of people about their cultures, traditions and beliefs. Overall, Manhattan International High School is a very comfortable, safe and well develop institution that welcomes students from all over the world, such as an immigrant like me.
    Read 53 Reviews

    • B-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Diversity
    • 333 Students
    • 17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  24. John F. Kennedy Memorial High School

    • Woodbridge Township School District, NJ
    • 9-12
    • 134
    18 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 134 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Diversity
    • 1,319 Students
    • 13:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  25. Sewanhaka High School

    • Sewanhaka Central High School District, NY
    • 7-12
    • 178
    19 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 178 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Diversity
    • 1,627 Students
    • 18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  26. Susan E. Wagner High School

    • New York City Geographic District No. 31, NY
    • 9-12
    • 474
    20 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 474 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Diversity
    • 3,276 Students
    • 22:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  27. International High School at Prospect Heights

    • New York City Geographic District No. 17, NY
    • 9-12
    • 47
    21 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area

    Senior: The most outstanding high school of NYC. The support students recieve is really unique and meaningful for all of us no matter our race, religion, sex, gender or disabilities, you will have the opportunity to contribute your knowledge, express your feelings, ideas or point of views with respectfully listeners. The support and helpful interactions that students have with each other makes this high school makes it the best.
    Read 47 Reviews

    • C+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Diversity
    • 392 Students
    • 15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  28. NYC iSchool

    • New York City Geographic District No. 2, NY
    • 9-12
    • 143
    22 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 143 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Diversity
    • 458 Students
    • 17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  30. Bay Shore Senior High School

    • Bay Shore Union Free School District, NY
    • 9-12
    • 202
    23 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area

    Senior: As a school district, we are incredibly diverse. I love my school for it. I'm white, but Bay Shore has a large population of Hispanic people and African American people. I've grown up in Bay Shore, and by going to school here, I've been exposed to a multitude of beautiful and unique cultures. Being surrounded by such diversity really teaches you to be accepting, and to appreciate the differences between you and the people around you.
    Bay Shore also has an amazing music performance program. Between our choirs, our bands, our orchestras, and our drama productions, there is an incredible love for performing. I was fortunate enough to be involved with the choir program and the drama program. Through of my experience performing, I learned to be more confident with myself.
    Read 202 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Diversity
    • 1,861 Students
    • 15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  31. Millennium Brooklyn High School

    • New York City Geographic District No. 15, NY
    • 8-12
    • 83
    24 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 83 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Diversity
    • 621 Students
    • 11:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  32. Piscataway Township High School

    • Piscataway Township Schools, NJ
    • 9-12
    • 473
    25 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New York City Area

    Senior: Being able to attend Piscataway High School for all four years has truly been a great experience. I learned so much about myself and those around me within the years. I had teachers who encouraged me do to better and who believed in me. Although school got challenging at time, my teachers were always there to help me. Also, Piscataway High School has made it easier for me to get ready for college. Most of my classes use college concepts and also offers college credits. Piscataway High School also offers many different club and activities that everyone can participate in, so therefore no one is left out. During these four years, Piscataway High School has truly left like a home and a big family.
    Read 473 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Diversity
    • 2,127 Students
    • 14:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes
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2018 Most Diverse Public High Schools in the New York City Area
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