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2020 Niche Standout High Schools in the Houston AreaAbout this List

The 2020 Niche Standout High Schools list recognizes public schools that are making a difference in their community. The ranking is based on rigorous analysis of key statistics and millions of reviews from students and parents using data from the U.S. Department of Education. Ranking factors include school diversity, graduation rates and state test scores for economically disadvantaged and minority students, SAT/ACT scores, and the quality of colleges that students consider. The list is limited to only schools with 1) at least 50% of students identified by the school as economically disadvantaged and 2) a Niche Overall Grade of B or higher. Read more on how this ranking was calculated.

1 – 25 of 74
Niche Standout Schools
74 results

  1. Kerr High School

    • Alief Independent School District, TX
    • 9-12
    • 51 reviews
    #1 Niche Standout High Schools in Houston Area

    Freshman: Kerr has brought me the best academic results and it's allowed me to manage my time successfully in preparation for the future years. In this school, we are given the work in packs and we are expected to divide our work into parts so that we can work on certain chunks of the packs every day. My counselors are remarkably helpful and they provide many materials towards students that struggle to keep up with their work. They even help some students divide up their pack work and they have quiet areas for students to be able to concentrate. Seminars occasionally to teach students how to calculate their GPA, study in segments, and how to be able to focus on finishing their work. The majority of students and staff are friendly and are determined to help whenever they can. We are expected to learn independently, but the teachers encourage students to ask them questions and they don't hesitate to help students whenever they require assistance.
    Read 51 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 804 Students
    • 19:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    • 63% Free or Reduced Lunch
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  2. Harmony School of Advancement-Houston

    • Public School
    • Houston, TX
    • 9-12
    • 198 reviews
    #2 Niche Standout High Schools in Houston Area

    Senior: Harmony offers a lot of college courses, so if you apply yourself, you can take advantage of that. Some teachers care a lot about their students, offering tutorials after school and even on Saturdays for those who want the extra help. There's not as many opportunities here if you aren't in the STEM field though and clubs/athletics do not get that much funding. Still, you can get very involved here if you put your mind to it because the school is pretty small. The people here are pretty nice, too, and it's very diverse. I've gotten to know and befriend people from many different backgrounds.
    Read 198 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 596 Students
    • 14:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    • 53% Free or Reduced Lunch
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  3. Alief Early College High School

    • Alief Independent School District, TX
    • 9-12
    • 445 reviews
    #3 Niche Standout High Schools in Houston Area

    Senior: I feel very much prepared for college and think this is the best school for students who want to get advanced in their studies before going to university. This also gives students a sense of responsibility and independence that better prepares us maturity wise. I am proud of attending this school all four years and would recommend it to anyone who is serious about furthering their education and want an amazing future. The teachers are great here and I have a deep appreciation for everything they do and for their passion in teaching considering that I want to be a teacher too. The food is better than normal school and you even get college credits after graduating! This is an amazing school that helps you grow in many ways.
    Read 445 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 427 Students
    • 20:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    • 82% Free or Reduced Lunch
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  4. Langham Creek High School

    • Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District, TX
    • 9-12
    • 661 reviews
    #4 Niche Standout High Schools in Houston Area

    Senior: It’s a very diverse high school and one gets to learn more about other cultures. The teachers and coaches make an effort to get to know you and help one achieve their goals! The school spirit is amazing, And there’s always people at events to support friends and family. Going to langham has really opened up my eyes in the world because they teach you how to over come problems and how to work throw rough times.
    Read 661 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 3,219 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    • 47% Free or Reduced Lunch
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  5. Challenge Early College High School

    • Houston Independent School District, TX
    • 9-12
    • 364 reviews
    #5 Niche Standout High Schools in Houston Area

    Senior: One thing I thought of when I was entering high school was the type of environment that I wanted to be in. "Small or big?" the question came to. After some review, I knew I wanted to go to Challenge - a school where I can shave some time of of my college? It was a dream to me. I pleaded and pleaded to go to challenge - I had a hunch that I would enjoy it. As it turned out, I did! It was one of the best choices I have ever made. Every teacher was different, and I could finally be myself in a classroom without having to face as serious of repercussions. Among this, being a high school student placed in college classes, while stressful, was a great experience as it forced us to become more mature if not already. Overall, going to Challenge has been a life changing experience. I made friends I know I will have for the rest of my life, made great bonds with the faculty, made great memories, and most of all, got a great education, and I know I will never regret my decision.
    Read 364 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 470 Students
    • 25:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    • 71% Free or Reduced Lunch
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  6. Spring Early College Academy

    • Spring Independent School District, TX
    • 9-12
    • 163 reviews
    #6 Niche Standout High Schools in Houston Area

    Alum: Best school in SpringISD, you'll actually get an education! The teachers are super helpful and actually care about your education. You get the freedom that other students don't receive at other schools, such as being a full time college student your senior year. Overall, the best choice I've made. No ragrets. Anyways please STAN LOONA for healthy skin and flawless college applications, thank you for your time.
    Read 163 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 384 Students
    • 17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    • 65% Free or Reduced Lunch
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  9. Bellaire High School

    • Houston Independent School District, TX
    • 9-12
    • 699 reviews
    #7 Niche Standout High Schools in Houston Area

    Senior: At Bellaire High School, you have the resources and support to learn about a multitude of things. If you aren't certain about what you want to do with your life, then Bellaire has the classes and clubs where you can find out what you like or don't like. You can really immerse yourself into any subject - chemistry maybe being the exception.
    The staff in Pre-AP and AP classes are very supportive of their students and love what they teach. In the regular and college-prep classes, you don't find such passion, but most are available to all students.
    Yes, the current school building is dusty and dirty, but at least you have the option to buy fast-food choices and tapioca at lunch. It can be hard to really take off in your clubs because you don't have a lot of funding, especially in the fine arts - go the Mighty Cardinal Band! -, but at least the school has not gotten rid of them.
    Overall, Bellaire is a good quality school with spirit and possibility. Good school for HISD.
    Read 699 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 3,499 Students
    • 18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    • 49% Free or Reduced Lunch
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  10. Victory Early College High School

    • Aldine Independent School District, TX
    • 9-12
    • 352 reviews
    #8 Niche Standout High Schools in Houston Area

    Senior: I love the school campus, it has great opportunities, and the teachers are amazing! You get the opportunity to get your Associates of Arts before your high school diploma. It is a great opportunity even though it takes a lot of hard work. The teachers will work with you to help you in anything that you need. The school does not have any sports because it is an academic based school. However, it is worth it in the end when you get the opportunity to walk the graduation stage twice.
    Read 352 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 430 Students
    • 20:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    • 84% Free or Reduced Lunch
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  11. Harmony Science Academy - Houston

    • Public School
    • Houston, TX
    • 9-12
    • 365 reviews
    #9 Niche Standout High Schools in Houston Area

    Senior: Ive attended Harmony Science Academy ever since I was a freshmen and hopefully I will be able to graduate from there in May 2020. All the teachers I've had are really good at teaching and are really responsible in uploading our grades, so we can see if were either failing or passing . And they even stay after school or tutor on Saturdays. Although my school isn't really big like normal are any other high school my school is small and it is also near a highway which makes it not only dangerous, but there's also a lot of traffic in the morning and in the afternoon. It is a really diverse school and they try to have as many sports as they can afford and depending on how much equipment they can buy. The food is really not good and sometimes the food is expired, which is really dangerous for us the students because we can get food poisoning.
    Read 365 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 598 Students
    • 15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    • 68% Free or Reduced Lunch
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  12. Houston Academy for International Studies

    • Houston Independent School District, TX
    • 9-12
    • 183 reviews
    #10 Niche Standout High Schools in Houston Area

    Senior: HAIS is a good school for the students that it’s good for. If you’re not interested in traveling or obtaining your associates degree then I don’t recommend going to this school. But if you do want to travel, get your associates degree or both then I definitely recommend this school.

    What disappointed me the most about HAIS is the fact that we don’t have homecoming, or pep rallies. I understand that we don’t have a football team but throughout my 4 years of going to this school there isn’t really any moment where I really felt school spirit exhibited by this school, and a pep rally/homecoming just because would’ve definitely helped bring some spirit into our school.
    Read 183 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 475 Students
    • 25:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    • 68% Free or Reduced Lunch
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  13. Jersey Village High School

    • Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District, TX
    • 9-12
    • 624 reviews
    #11 Niche Standout High Schools in Houston Area

    Senior: My 4 years at Jersey Village have been nothing short of discovery and fulfillment. If I had gone to any other school, I can't imagine my high school experience being any better. The friendly teachers, diverse student body, and multitude of student activities made the place feel like home. I came in, a frightened freshman, and blossomed into a confident, young man ready for college thanks to Jersey Village. Everyday, something was going on after school or even before it. At times, the amount of sheer activity at Jersey Village can be overwhelming but you come to appreciate it. There are some incredible teachers that simply wow you through a simple lecture, and there are some teachers who can be a bit of a bore, but every teacher I had taught me something valuable. Academic competition only really exists for the top 100-150 kids, so if you really want your child to stand out, this might be the school for you.
    Read 624 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 3,610 Students
    • 17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    • 54% Free or Reduced Lunch
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  14. Eastwood Academy

    • Houston Independent School District, TX
    • 9-12
    • 139 reviews
    #12 Niche Standout High Schools in Houston Area

    Alum: There are many ups and downs with the high school experience, and I would say Eastwood had helped me through all those times. The teachers are very understanding, and the faculty are very open to chat anytime. I would say everyone should take advantage of the HCC classes and AP classes offered, since they can help with preparing you for college and help your college admission process. I loved doing cyber security in Eastwood and by doing so, I have a pretty good job in college now because of the experience at Eastwood. I love and appreciate the experience I had at Eastwood, it truly made me a better person academically and personally. The counselor is very understanding and the most wonderful person around, I truly am glad for the help she has done for me and the students around. Applying and going out of state is possible and encouraged, good luck to all students and do your very best.
    Read 139 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 427 Students
    • 19:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    • 83% Free or Reduced Lunch
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  15. Harmony School of Discovery - Houston

    • Public School
    • Houston, TX
    • 6-12
    • 29 reviews
    #13 Niche Standout High Schools in Houston Area

    Junior: I've been at this school since I was in the fifth grade. A lot has changed since then, but the overall goal has stayed the same. To prepare students for college and make sure college courses are available. I appreciate how much this school appreciates its students by taking the time to make sure our education is the number one priority. I only wish for more classes. I see some big high schools having cooking classes, home economics classes, woodshop and more. I wish we had more access to these classes so we could learn more. Especially when it is needed in the future.
    Read 29 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 696 Students
    • 14:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    • 56% Free or Reduced Lunch
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  16. Cypress Falls High School

    • Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District, TX
    • 9-12
    • 675 reviews
    #14 Niche Standout High Schools in Houston Area

    Alum: While High School in itself is a somewhat overwhelming experience to begin with, I felt that my time there really lifted me up and has left me with so many great memories and friends that I will continue to cherish even as I move on in life. As a member of the Cy Falls Marching Band, I was allowed so many opportunities to travel and perform. I really felt part of something bigger than myself. Being connected to this school that way really gave me appreciation for long hours, hard work and pride in accomplishments. It was amazing what we all accomplished together. Our school motto was "We are One!" I always felt that at the football games and competitions and even day to day. Thank you CyFalls Eagles! You helped me soar!
    Read 675 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 3,653 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    • 49% Free or Reduced Lunch
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  17. Cypress Ridge High School

    • Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District, TX
    • 9-12
    • 515 reviews
    #15 Niche Standout High Schools in Houston Area

    Alum: It was really fun time when I attended there and produced so many great memories. The faculty and teacher were nice and friendly, all though some of them were a bit annoying. But other than that, it was good! I really enjoyed orchestra a lot and my pre-cal and calculus class. Organizations and clubs such as interact made me get involved more with school and I made a lot of friends. I also was in charge of the “B-Boy Club” which is a dance club at the school! We performed at pep rallies and shows that was hosted by the school. Overall, my experience at Cypress Ridge High School was amazing.
    Read 515 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 3,084 Students
    • 13:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    • 66% Free or Reduced Lunch
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  18. Cypress Creek High School

    • Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District, TX
    • 9-12
    • 656 reviews
    #16 Niche Standout High Schools in Houston Area

    Alum: Cypress Creek High School is a melting pot of students. There are many different types of cultures that reside in the large hallways. Because of the diversity present, there are tons of different clubs provided such as the German Club, LGBTQ Awareness Club, and the Black Students Union Club! Not only is this very informative on different cultures, but the students accept each other no matter their race or ethnicity. One thing that I liked, was the students relationships with the teachers. The faculty and staff never treated the students as children and beneath them. Instead, the teachers would approach and talk to students with respect and as if they are equals.
    Read 656 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 3,346 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    • 45% Free or Reduced Lunch
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  19. East Early College High School

    • Houston Independent School District, TX
    • 9-12
    • 609 reviews
    #17 Niche Standout High Schools in Houston Area

    Senior: East Ealry College High School has been a fun ride! There are losts of clubs to choose from and it has a great SOAR program for students who are interested in science or math programs. The food isn't the best in the world but its edible just like any other public school food. If you're looking for teachers you can connect with this is the place for you! They are willling to help you out with anything and really care. Even though East Early my not have any fancy facilities it's still a great school, how many people get to say they can graduate with their associates degree from college?
    Read 609 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 488 Students
    • 24:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    • 89% Free or Reduced Lunch
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  22. Westside High School

    • Houston Independent School District, TX
    • 9-12
    • 599 reviews
    #18 Niche Standout High Schools in Houston Area

    Junior: I feel that Westside is an amazing school as far as academics go! I love that we get a 50 minute lunch period which is basically an hour due to the 10 minute passing period back to class. The teachers are caring and very attentive to the children here. This year by far is one of my favorite years here thus far, which is Junior year. I love it here at Westside, where they really make you feel at home.
    Read 599 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,938 Students
    • 19:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    • 52% Free or Reduced Lunch
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  23. Cypress Lakes High School

    • Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District, TX
    • 9-12
    • 649 reviews
    #19 Niche Standout High Schools in Houston Area

    Junior: My experience in Cypress Lakes High School is amazing so far! The school has nice teachers, counselors, custodians, etc. Also, the school creates positive announcements in the morning to inspire each of the students. Furthermore, the school gives many opportunities to become involved in organizations. However, there are cons, such as the long lines in the cafeteria. I wish it was more manageable so students can grab their lunch and go instead of waiting for about 5-10 minutes. There should also be fun events that includes everyone instead of just one particular grade. Overall, the school is decent and I am thankful to be attending in such a nice school! Thank you Cypress Lakes High School!
    Read 649 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 3,669 Students
    • 17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    • 65% Free or Reduced Lunch
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  24. Westchester Academy for International Studies

    • Spring Branch Independent School District, TX
    • 6-12
    • 318 reviews
    #20 Niche Standout High Schools in Houston Area

    Senior: I personally loved my experience at Westchester! I was constantly academically challenged with the rigor of my classes, and I happened to meet some of the best people here as well. Many of the teachers I had are extremely kind and hardworking, providing me with all the resources and help I would need. All of the students are kind and courteous to one another. The only thing I wish weren't happening is that a lot of the super teachers are leaving my senior year and a lot of new changes are being made, so I am fearful at the short-term effects of them.
    Read 318 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,023 Students
    • 13:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    • 57% Free or Reduced Lunch
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  25. KIPP Houston High School

    • Public School
    • Houston, TX
    • 9-12
    • 221 reviews
    #21 Niche Standout High Schools in Houston Area

    Senior: I have been apart of Kipp for 14 years now I attended Kipp Shine Prep, Kipp Academy Middle School, and currently Kipp Houston High School. Kipp is honestly a great school it has disciplined me and make me become more responsible. Kipp Houston High School has great academics it offers AP classes and teachers actually engage with the students and build relationships with one another. Kipp honestly feels like various types of schools it's a mix feeling of a public school, private school, and charter school. Me being apart of kipp for 14 years now and Kipp Houston High School for grades 9-12 it feels like a college readiness school Kipp Houston actually prepares you for college. My Kipp Houston High School experience was a rocky one but it helped me achieve my goals. Kipp Houston High School's college counselors are the best they actually help you succeed.
    Read 221 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 685 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    • 92% Free or Reduced Lunch
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  26. Sharpstown International School

    • Houston Independent School District, TX
    • 6-12
    • 60 reviews
    #22 Niche Standout High Schools in Houston Area

    Senior: Sharpstown International being in the Magnet Program, my school really values college readiness classes. The teachers for the most part reasonable, I have seen a few teachers who go far and beyond for their students. In 9th grade my history teacher always willing to take time outside of class to teach me lessons I didn't understand, there are some superstar teachers spread around my school. Most of my friends part of organizations like National Honors Society, Model UN, and the Woods Project. I would say that 80% of students are at least in one of these groups. In my opinion, a major highlight my school offers is the opportunity to go abroad during the summer. In the past few years students having gone to China, Spain, to this year the trip being to Greece, I heard it's a one in a life time opportunity. Although, my school is not the most prestigious, it is a place where I have made many memorable memories.
    Read 60 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,061 Students
    • 17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    • 93% Free or Reduced Lunch
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  27. Mayde Creek High School

    • Katy Independent School District, TX
    • 9-12
    • 400 reviews
    #23 Niche Standout High Schools in Houston Area

    Junior: One thing I love about Mayde Creek High School is the teachers are amazing! They are very passionate about their students and you can always find a teacher to get advice from. My favorite teacher is really into developing our personality, not academic achievements. Although she is the strictest teacher I've ever known, she is also the loveliest person that you can find. To find the teacher I'm talking about, join the Academic Decathlon Club :)
    Read 400 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,763 Students
    • 17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    • 58% Free or Reduced Lunch
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  28. Lamar High School

    • Houston Independent School District, TX
    • 9-12
    • 727 reviews
    #24 Niche Standout High Schools in Houston Area

    Senior: Lamar high school taught us about integrity, discipline, respect, and to be courageous. Lamar High college is a magnet faculty accepting future college students from all over the city. It is very large, diverse, and completely targeted on it is tutorial performance. Going into the school during my freshman four years ago, I didn't count on it to be as challenging as it was. It was rollercoaster leading to where I am now as a senior, and as I look back at my experience, I am grateful for all the tutorials lessons that have helped me improve my studies as well as the teachers who actually cared if the students learned and correctly grasped the context of the lessons. I sense as the classes prepared me not only for the relaxation of excessive school, however also for my college career. Taking IB instructions helped me to work more difficult than I commonly would then taking AP classes. The instructions were very rigorous and comparable to university classes.
    Read 727 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 3,424 Students
    • 23:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    • 47% Free or Reduced Lunch
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  29. Impact Early College High School

    • Goose Creek Consolidated Independent School District, TX
    • 9-12
    • 142 reviews
    #25 Niche Standout High Schools in Houston Area

    Junior: IMPACT Early College High School is such an amazing school. I am a Junior, therefore I have been attending this school for three consecutive years, and going on four. Yet, Not once have a teacher ever let me down. The faculty here are just outstanding! The Teachers here will use their last minute to help you with anything you need regarding academics or even personal problems. The environment is also very friendly and provides many study areas. The alumni here is are also very nice and respectful. IMPACT ECHS is just an amazing school in general, And i will never regret the day that i got accepted into this School.
    Read 142 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 380 Students
    • 22:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    • 61% Free or Reduced Lunch
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  30. Sponsored

    The Awty International School

    • Private School
    • Houston, TX
    • PK, K-12
    • 161 reviews

    Senior: I love Awty because it teaches children the importance of study habits and time management while also helping you develop into a full rounded student. Awty teaches two years ahead, allowing children to have a more advanced education. In addition to Awty being rich in academics, it is also a safe space for all ethnicities. It teaches you about different cultures and how to respect their traditions and beliefs. Awty helps you learn the true meaning of diversity through special events, such as the International Festival, where booths that represent different countries discuss their cultures and traditions and allow you to experience a part of it with them. Even though, it is known for its diversity and advanced academics, it is well- known for the variety of languages. I am currently a trilingual student, fluent in Spanish, French, and English. I hope this helps give insight to what a great school Awty is.
    Read 161 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,731 Students
    • 8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  35. Sponsored

    St. Stephen's Episcopal School - Houston

    • Private School
    • Houston, TX
    • PK, K-8
    • 14 reviews

    Parent: Caring, creative community with great fine arts! Great teachers. However, large class size keeps the skilled teachers from offering the Montessori experience they otherwise might.
    Read 14 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 200 Students
    • 6:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  36. Sponsored

    St. Pius X. High School

    • Private School
    • Houston, TX
    • 9-12
    • 92 reviews

    Parent: St. Pius offer a small prep school atmosphere with low student to teacher ratios. The athletic program is excellent and advanced placement curriculum is available to those who want it. The student body is filled with polite and well-mannered students from all backgrounds. The school has a highly diverse student body with strong representation from all races, ethnicities, and socio-economic status, so it is not just a "rich kid" school. There is a dress code which minimizes the need to keep up with the latest fashions and makes students from different economic strata indistinguishable. The main critique of the school are its dated facilities, particularly for athletics, however the school has embarked on a major capital campaign that will make it's facilities among the best in the area over the coming years. Very happy with the decision to send our daughter to SPX.
    Read 92 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 575 Students
    • 11:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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