What's It Like Working in a School Kitchen

November 25, 2021

The Top 10 High Schools in the U.S.

The top 10 high schools in the USA are some of the most exclusive. That goes without saying. But if you've got a bright kid (or indeed you are one), they're well worth the effort to get in — even if it involves moving out of state.

Staten Island Technical High School

Granted 'Specialized High School' status by the NYC Department of Education, this school has a focus on technology. But its varied curriculum also includes the arts and humanities, as well as sports. There's also an emphasis on career training through shadowing and internships.

Downington S.T.E.M. Academy

STEM stands for science, technology, engineering and mathematics — the foci of this International Baccalaureate World School in Downington, Pennsylvania. Applicants (with teacher recommendations) are required to undertake preparatory courses, submit an essay and attend an interview at the Academy.

International Academy

Another International Baccalaureate (IB) school, Michigan's International Academy focuses on English, the arts, humanities, education and a second language in addition to STEM subjects. Applicants are selected by lottery.

Stanton College Preparatory School

IB institutions often appear among the top 10 schools in America, and for good reason too: They have to meet world-class standards. This Blue Ribbon School of Excellence in Jacksonville, Florida boasts a graduation rate of 100 percent.

University High School

University High School in Tucson, Arizona is specifically geared to preparing students for college. It shares a campus with Rincon High School, where University High School students may attend extra classes. To enroll, applicants must pass the Cognitive Abilities entrance exam with a qualifying score and have an acceptable GPA for the past two semesters.

Design and Architecture Senior High School

Miami's design-focused magnet school has an economically diverse student body. Refreshingly, something like 40 percent of those enrolled come from disadvantaged backgrounds. Applicants are required to submit sketchbooks or portfolios and successfully complete an audition — regardless of their desired specialism.

Gilbert Classical Academy

Here's one 'academy' that upholds the original meaning of that word. Its curriculum is rooted in the Socratic Method of teaching, emphasizing debate and critical thinking even (or especially) when it contradicts the teacher. Students are also required to complete 80 hours of community service.

Liberal Arts and Science Academy High School

This Austin, Texas institution attracts some of the most advanced students from the local area. Courses are project-based and collaborative, preparing students for academic or professional research positions. There are also plenty of clubs.

Carnegie Vanguard High School

Another Texas high school, this one in Houston, Carnegie Vanguard boasts a 100 percent Advanced Placement (AP) pass rate. Applicants require a teacher recommendation, transcript and universal assessment scores. But a gifted or talented identification might suffice.

Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology

For any kid looking to excel in a STEM field, there's really no better high school in America, reports The Best Schools site. Located in the eco-friendly city of Alexandria, Virginia, TJHSST covers a variety of topics, including artificial intelligence, quantum mechanics and marine biology. Application requirements include an entrance exam, essay, recommendations and a history of academic achievement.

Maitland Tinclan