As Nora Ephron, a renowned filmmaker and writer, once remarked in a ‘96 commencement speech at Wellesley College, “Your education serves as a rehearsal for the life you are destined to lead.” This analogy implies that high school, in particular, plays a significant role as one of the most impactful dress rehearsals in one’s journey.
High school serves as a platform where students delve into their passions, engage in extracurricular pursuits, relish the newfound autonomy in selecting courses, and gear up for the next phase, whether it be college or the professional realm. Public education stands out as a cornerstone for many families, with statistics from the National Center for Education indicating that a substantial number of students, including a significant portion in high school, were enrolled in public pre-K-12 institutions in the fall of 2021.
For numerous parents fraught with anxiety, securing admission for their children in the top-tier public high schools becomes a top priority. Some families even consider relocating to access superior school districts. Amid the vast array of educational institutions, a select few shine brightly due to their academic prowess, exceptional track records, and the promising futures they pave for their students.
A curated list showcasing the 30 best public high schools in Texas has been meticulously compiled, drawing upon the 2023 rankings from a reputable source. These rankings are based on seven weighted criteria by Niche, encompassing academics as the primary focus, alongside considerations such as cultural diversity, sports, extracurricular activities, resources, and feedback from parents, teachers, and students. Where available, details regarding school districts are provided; otherwise, the city of location is highlighted.
Here is a glimpse into the top 10 public high schools in Texas:
10. Seven Lakes High School
- Location: Katy Independent School District, TX
- Enrollment: 3,582 students (Student to Teacher Ratio: 18:1)
- Niche Grade: A+
9. Debakey H.S. for Health Prof
- Location: Houston Independent School District, TX
- Enrollment: 891 students (Student to Teacher Ratio: 17:1)
- Niche Grade: A+
8. Westwood High IB World School
- Location: Round Rock Independent School District, TX
- Enrollment: 2,781 students (Student to Teacher Ratio: 16:1)
- Niche Grade: A+
7. Carroll Senior High School
- Location: Carroll Independent School District, TX
- Enrollment: 1,394 students (Student to Teacher Ratio: 14:1)
- Niche Grade: A+
6. Westlake High School
- Location: Eanes Independent School District, TX
- Enrollment: 2,823 students (Student to Teacher Ratio: 14:1)
- Niche Grade: A+
5. South Texas ISD Science Academy
- Location: South Texas Independent School District, TX
- Enrollment: 764 students (Student to Teacher Ratio: 13:1)
- Niche Grade: A+
4. Carnegie Vanguard High School
- Location: Houston Independent School District, TX
- Enrollment: 823 students (Student to Teacher Ratio: 22:1)
- Niche Grade: A+
3. Liberal Arts & Science Academy
- Location: Austin Independent School District, TX
- Enrollment: 1,309 students (Student to Teacher Ratio: 17:1)
- Niche Grade: A+
2. School of Science & Engineering
- Location: Dallas Independent School District, TX
- Enrollment: 501 students (Student to Teacher Ratio: 18:1)
- Niche Grade: A+
1. School for the Talented & Gifted
- Location: Dallas Independent School District, TX
- Enrollment: 502 students (Student to Teacher Ratio: 19:1)
- Niche Grade: A+
This insightful compilation of top-ranking public high schools in Texas not only underscores academic excellence but also celebrates the diverse achievements and bright prospects of the students within these esteemed institutions.