2024 Best Schools with Gifted and Talented Programs in the Houston Area

• Houston Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  357 reviews

Senior: Carnegie Vanguard High School is a rigorous high school that provides a great learning and challenging learning environment with the addition of Advanced Placement and Dual Credit Courses. Although the learning environment can be challenging, students at Carnegie create an enjoyable inclusive environment, whether it be from freshmen to seniors; everyone gets to enjoy this positive environment. Students can also enjoy various clubs that are started by teachers, like Chess Club, or by students like the Mahjong Club. These clubs offer great diversity, and promote a sense a inclusion to all students, as everyone is invited. In all, Carnegie Vanguard High has a very supportive environment were students can feel welcome and included, the additional support from everyone, not only students, and the rigorous academic learning a student needs to be successful.... Read 357 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 823

• Student-teacher ratio 22:1

• Houston Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  677 reviews

Senior: I believe that this school was thoroughly beneficial in terms of exposure to advanced content, and learning how to navigate through difficult circumstances. However, being here can be very overwhelming, and it is very easy to be caught up in academic achievement that self neglect becomes a major factor. My advice to future students is to really deliberate if the Health Sciences is something you are truly passionate about. If so, enter this school prepared for the complexities that are to come with this fast paced, college-preparatory environment. Complete your work as soon as you receive it, or as soon as reasonably possible, and most importantly, build and maintain your relationships with your peers, administrators, and educators. Join clubs, get involved in student politics, if interested, and work diligently to receive your DeBakey diploma :).... Read 677 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 891

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Katy Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.02 out of 5  1,308 reviews

Senior: Seven Lakes Highschool is a wonderful school to go to! The Fine Art Department is great in every category. The Orchestra does amazing, the band does amazing, the choir does amazing, the theater department is super cool! It's great to express yourself there. The education is good too. Most teachers are good and nice. Some teachers are absolutely amazing and will go beyond. The athletic department does great except in football but we'll get there one day. The soccer team is really good. There is definitely a group for anyone to join in Seven Lakes along side with the many clubs it has to offers.... Read 1,308 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 3,582

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• Katy Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.25 out of 5  399 reviews

Alum: While attending Obra D. Tompkins High School, I felt very safe and happy. There were plenty of resources for students in every form, including extracurricular and academic support. I never felt scared for my own safety or of others because it was a calm environment with no threats. One of the best parts of my experience at my high school was being part of the girls' soccer team for all four years. Being at practice and at the games during my four years was a wonderful experience where I met my long-life best friends as well as taught me discipline. I do not have any bad experiences at this high school, and I believe it is a good place to succeed!... Read 399 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 3,254

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Fort Bend Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  845 reviews

Sophomore: I love Clements High School and enjoyed my freshman year a lot. There are so many amazing things about the school including its kind and caring teachers and administration and the thoughtful students. The facilities like the gyms, tennis courts, commons, and football field are all very well taken care of. The school spirit of everyone on campus is outstanding! One of the only negatives that come to mind is the pressure on the students with their academics. The environment, though cheerful with all the friendships, is very competitive. I would wish that homework would not be as intense, or scheduling for tests and quizzes could be communicated between departments so that there isn't the pressure of studying for three tests that fall all on the same day. However, the rigorous courses make sure that students learn how to manage their time wisely and how to quickly absorb new information while being organized.... Read 845 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,488

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• Houston, TX•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.81 out of 5  31 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 205

• Student-teacher ratio 4:1

• Clear Creek Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.17 out of 5  368 reviews

Senior: A very good school experience but it doesn't give you the full high school experience since it is an early college high school. I loved it but not everyone would say the same. It is a bit boring if you have no one to hang out with but the students are very friendly so it is easy to make friends. It is a lot of work but the work is easy. Some people say this school is too hard but I disagree. It is actually very easy if you focus and get your work done. This school also requires you to do mentorships for ISM. I was very anxious and stressed over this but when I actually got into it, it became easy. The teachers here are also amazing. They are very friendly and understanding. Overall, I love my school!... Read 368 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 416

• Student-teacher ratio 30:1

• Alief Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.92 out of 5  595 reviews

Sophomore: The best way to describe Kerr High School is that it's like being in college. Instead of individual classrooms like traditional high schools, it has centers for the main subjects: Math, English, Science, and Social Studies. Students have only four classes a semester, two core classes and two electives. Despite the lack of the other four classes in the same semester, the workload is equivalent to that of a traditional eight-course high school. My favorite part about this high school is that they give you the responsibility and freedom to do what you want, whether it be going to a different part of the school or not teaching you because all the material is basically given to you. Seminars are held occasionally, to clarify and teach certain topics. I haven't had a bad experience with Kerr; it's an amazing high school that I would recommend to upcoming freshmen.... Read 595 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 790

• Student-teacher ratio 20:1

• Katy Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.08 out of 5  737 reviews

Senior: I really liked the school's teachers and environment. Everyone is very nice and the teachers I met are understanding and engaged in their student's studies. My teachers on many occasions pay attention to what I'm doing and how I'm faring in the classroom and on most days can be seen with an upbeat attitude. The school is mildly competitive but compared to other schools in the area it isn't so bad competition wise. The kids are still very nice to each other and academics isn't too much of a strong focus but enough to make sure we all strive to do well for colleges and our life beyond high school. I've met many diverse people in the school both culture wise and personality wise. Whether you are an art, music, or academic focused student there will be good teachers in this school to help you.... Read 737 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 3,475

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.02 out of 5  789 reviews

Sophomore: I honestly love going to Cy-Ranch! Our extra-curricular arts and sports programs are phenomenal, the teachers are experts in their respective fields, and the sense of community is wonderfully inspiring. If I had to change anything it might be increasing the accessibility of our counselors and more structured and frequent use of our library. Go Mustangs!... Read 789 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 3,549

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.1 out of 5  1,002 reviews

Senior: I have truly cherished my time at Cypress Woods High School. This institution has provided me with a wealth of exceptional educational and club opportunities. The diverse range of classes offered at Cy Woods has allowed me to explore various career paths, enabling me to confidently select a major for college to advance my education. When I initially entered high school, I was uncertain about my career aspirations, but with the guidance of my elective courses, I successfully honed in on my interest in Business. These enjoyable classes also offered a welcome reprieve from the demanding higher-level courses I was taking. In summary, I couldn't be more pleased with the invaluable experiences and opportunities that Cypress Woods has afforded me.... Read 1,002 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 3,185

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Alief Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.15 out of 5  506 reviews

Senior: It’s a great school that offers the opportunity to get be a dual enrollment for free of charge. That’s thousands of dollars in a span of 4 years! The school offers three associate in partnership with Houston Community College- Science, Engineering and Arts. The down side of this system is since it’s a very education focused and small school (approx 400), sports on a competitive level and the “high school activities” don’t resemble the once from a regular school. Overall, like any good thing in life, you will be sacrificing somethings when you attend this school. Although, the school offers to give students a “typical” high school experience, somethings are simply not possible at a school so different from the norm. At the end of it all it will all be worth it, as attending this school shows how much hardworking and dedicated you are to your education. In addition, it’s almost like an head start for college education wise and financially.... Read 506 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 412

• Student-teacher ratio 20:1

• Spring Branch Independent School District, TX•

• 8-12

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  401 reviews

Senior: My overall experience at Memorial High School has been okay. The academics are really good and the classes are mentally stimulating to create a challenge and get ahead of learning. One of the worst parts I've had is the diversity because if you're a rich white kid you'll fit right in but any other group there is a minority there. Overall mostly everyone is nice as well as the teachers and coaches. If you're thinking of going here I recommend opting to not be in class ranking due to the competitiveness of academics here. Overall I think Memorial is a good school if you're trying to find an academically stimulating school who care about their students.... Read 401 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,531

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Tomball Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.29 out of 5  320 reviews

Senior: Hi, my name is Hailey Baddodck I am a student-athlete at Tomball Memorial High School. I am very proud to represent Tomball Memorial on and off the softball field. Throughout my high school years at Tomball Memorial, I have had some great experiences with clubs and senior activities. For instance, the senior picnic was a great hit. The senior parents did an amazing job coordinating the picnic. At the picnic, there were inflatables, games, and food. It was very memorable. Not only have I created great memories, but I have also created strong relationships with my teachers and coach. Since it is my senior year and I am applying to many colleges, I have the chance to ask my softball coach for a letter of recommendation. I am asking her because she has made a big impact on my life since my freshman year. She has shaped me into who I am today. Most of the staff here at Tomball Memorial are very kind and love supporting their students. I am proud to be a wildcat!... Read 320 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,755

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• Spring Branch Independent School District, TX•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 5 out of 5  1 review

Senior: Because the school is smaller than your typical high school, the teachers were able to better help their students, and I really appreciated how well they take care of everyone. The moment you start slipping up academically, they talk to you and give you options to help such as after school study hall, or they might email your teacher in the class you need help in and set up tutorials. The counselor is also very nice and is someone you feel like you can go to for anything.... Read 1 review

• grade A+

• Students 148

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Conroe Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.03 out of 5  938 reviews

Senior: The Woodlands high school has been an amazing experience for me. I have been honored to play varsity baseball, both junior and senior year, I have amazing teachers, who have awarded me several “ students achieving excellence” awards. I have made many lifetime friends and been involved in community activities including building beds for “Sleep in Heavenly Peace”, which is an organization in Montgomery County that builds beds for kids that have never had one. The food choices could be a little better, but I believe I go to one of the best high schools in the nation! I have been excepted to Arkansas University and I am confident that the amazing teachers at the Woodlands high schools have prepared me to succeed.... Read 938 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 4,379

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• Conroe Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.03 out of 5  657 reviews

Senior: College Park is the only high school I have ever known, and it has been a good school for me for the past four years. The best parts of my experience at College Park would be the friendships I’ve made and the performing arts opportunities I’ve had. CP is where I’ve made some of the greatest connection with people I never saw myself getting along with earlier in my life, and I am forever grateful for that. The friends I have made are most likely going to be by my side for a long time. At College Park, I have played Trumpet in different Band Classes and I have been in Vocal Music class. In the band and the choir, I am able to express myself in the way that I love in many different ways. Whether it’s performing at Disneyland or just a football game, I have been able to have a beautiful passion that I have stuck with since the fourth grade. Overall, College Park has been great for me, although, some changes could happen to make it better. Fights would be a great thing to be solved at CP.... Read 657 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 3,243

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• The Woodlands, TX•

• Public School•

• K-6

• •
  Rating 4.62 out of 5  13 reviews

Junior: I love that they are advertising all their student services, including internships to give students opportunities to earn experience and other perks. I would like to see change or more inclusivity to scholarships opportunities more than what they offer now from their transfer scholarship and scholarships4kats. In my experience, scholarships4kats has scholarships geared towards specific majors like criminal justice, sports, and towards alumni, parents pursuing education, and people who know staff at Sam. I would also like to see change as to how long they take to investigate any crimes reported to them and to release hidden policies and fees(term and conditions) about Bearkat bundles.... Read 13 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 493

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• Clear Creek Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  428 reviews

Senior: Clear Lake may seem intimidating at first, however, the environment I've been surrounded by has been nothing short of positive and friendly. The many people I've met and created bonds have made everlasting relationships that I know will carry on forever in life. Secondly, the education I've received here has prepared me for the future such as college. I've noticed my motivation to learn and be the best version of myself to be embraced because of the staff and peers at Clear Lake High School. Additionally, opportunities that can expand a person's experience in various fields, such as politics or STEM, can be found at Clear Lake. There are numerous clubs that have added an immense amount of immersive experiences. I've joined the Hindu Club and became an Ambassador. Along with creating PowerPoints and leading meetings, I've educated myself on a new religion, expanding my perspective on how people approach their religions. Clear Lake is full of opportunities for every student.... Read 428 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,490

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Humble Independent School District, TX•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.01 out of 5  599 reviews

Parent: All the teachers and staff were great! There was not anything I didn't like. If I emailed a counselor I would get a counselor response very quickly. If I needed an answer from the lady in the attendance office they answered very quickly. All the teachers there seemed to really love working with kids and answered emails very quickly and kept you up to date on what was going on in their classes every week. When covid happened they were overtime to make everything seem like it was the same even if you were just in regular day school, even though you were doing everything online they answered questions all day even at night had weekly if not daily videos for them to watch spoke to them one-on-one spoke to them in groups. My son never seem to get behind in any of his classes. They have great sport clubs and other clubs to be part of. And if you have a kid in athletics everything seem to always run very smoothly and they had everything very organized.... Read 599 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,850

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• Pearland Independent School District, TX•

• 8-12

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  923 reviews

Senior: Glenda Dawson High School is an amazing school for students who want to further pursue a college education to prepare for it. My fellow students here at Dawson show strong leadership skills and competitive academics. Although some of the courses offered at my school can be challenging, our teachers here are very responsible, for they always make sure their students do not fall behind and be successful. My fellow students are very friendly and welcoming. Whenever you need help, just walk up to a student at our school and ask them for advice, and they will be generous to help you out. As the newest school in our school district, my school has a magnificent teaching building and wide avenues for different kinds of sports. My school is always rated as an excellent in Texas, and an outstanding one in the greater Houston area. In addition, I want to tell you our motto: Some Fly, We Soar!... Read 923 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,516

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Katy Independent School District, TX•

• PK, K-5

• •
  Rating 5 out of 5  1 review

Parent: Great school! Excellent staff and teachers. We are very pleased with the academic performance of this school. Also has very strong parent involvement, but still manages to teach student independence.... Read 1 review

• grade A+

• Students 766

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Tomball Independent School District, TX•

• K-5

• •
  Rating 4.5 out of 5  2 reviews

Parent: We moved to this area around four months ago and our daughter started school here. The teachers, the environment, and all the activities are awesome! We are so happy with the school!... Read 2 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 572

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• Katy Independent School District, TX•

• 6-8

• •
  Rating 4.4 out of 5  5 reviews

Senior: The teachers were very good when I went there. I felt held to a high standard that I feel other schools at the time did not deliver. The afterschool clubs were diverse and student led with staff sponsors. It also had very fun holiday activitys. Such as the monster mash, I still dont think that experience can be beat. I left the school for taylor high in 2016. Still proud to have been a bobcat.... Read 5 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,152

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Katy Independent School District, TX•

• PK, K-5

• •
  Rating 5 out of 5  2 reviews

Parent: My daughter is a current student at Kilpatrick & has attended since kindergarten. She has progressed very well academically & we please with OKE’s academics. Teachers & staff truly care about students & make OKE a great environment.... Read 2 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,044

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1