Exploring the Top Public High Schools in New York State
New York State hosts an impressive array of public high schools renowned for academic excellence, innovative programs, and high student achievement. These institutions serve as benchmarks for quality education, preparing students for college, careers, and civic engagement. This survey highlights some of the most distinguished public high schools, each exemplifying distinctive strengths and accomplishments.
Queens High School for the Sciences at York College
Located in Jamaica, Queens, Queens High School for the Sciences at York College is widely recognized as the highest-ranked public high school across the state. The school maintains a 100% graduation rate and a college readiness score of 98.2, demonstrating its strong commitment to academic rigor. With an enrollment of approximately 520 students, this specialized institution offers a focused environment specifically tailored for aspiring scientists and engineers. Its strategic proximity to York College facilitates advanced coursework, research collaborations, and access to higher education resources that further enhance student opportunities.
Stuyvesant High School
Situated in Manhattan, Stuyvesant High School is globally recognized for its rigorous curriculum and high student achievement metrics. Achieving a 99% graduation rate and a college readiness score of 95.3, Stuyvesant consistently ranks among America’s elite public schools. The school specializes in STEM programs, attracting students with exceptional aptitude in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Its location in New York City grants access to a vast cultural, professional, and academic resources, fostering a comprehensive environment for advanced learning and exploration.
High School for Math, Science and Engineering at City College
Known colloquially as the High School for Math, Science and Engineering at City College, this school emphasizes excellence in STEM education. It boasts a 99% graduation rate and a perfect college readiness score of 100. Enrollment of about 555 students emphasizes an engaging, challenging curriculum designed to develop critical thinking, technical skills, and research capabilities. The school’s partnership with City College of New York enables students to participate in college-level coursework, internships, and research projects, elevating academic preparation.
Bronx High School of Science
Located in the Bronx, the Bronx High School of Science consistently ranks among the most prestigious public schools nationally. It attains a 99% graduation rate and a college readiness score of 92.8. The school is known for its specialized programs in various scientific disciplines, including physics, biology, and chemistry. Its offerings include advanced research opportunities, internships, and competitions. A diverse student body from different cultural backgrounds enriches the learning environment, emphasizing scientific inquiry and discovery.
Staten Island Technical High School
Staten Island Technical High School stands out as Staten Island’s premier public school, combining comprehensive academics with technical education. It achieves a 100% graduation rate and a college readiness score of 99.1. Its curriculum emphasizes engineering and technological skills aligned with current industry standards. State-of-the-art facilities and partnerships with local industries provide students practical, real-world experience, making them competitive for college and technical careers.
Brooklyn Latin School
Brooklyn Latin School delivers a classical education rooted in the humanities, arts, and sciences. It reports a 99% graduation rate and a college readiness score of 96.2. Latin and Greek studies are integrated into its rigorous curriculum, fostering a profound appreciation for classical literature and philosophy. Its academic excellence is reflected through high performance on state assessments and consistent college acceptance success, emphasizing its commitment to well-rounded intellectual development.
Brooklyn Technical High School
As one of New York City’s largest specialized high schools, Brooklyn Technical High School offers extensive programs in engineering, architecture, and computer science. It maintains a 96% graduation rate and a college readiness score of 95.2. Its diverse extracurriculars—such as robotics, coding clubs, and design projects—allow practical application of academic concepts. The school emphasizes integrating liberal arts with technical training, preparing students for both college and technical industries.
High School of American Studies at Lehman College
Located in the Bronx, High School of American Studies at Lehman College provides a curriculum centered on American history and civics. It achieves a 100% graduation rate and a perfect college readiness score of 100. Its collaborative relationship with Lehman College offers students access to college-level courses, research initiatives, and internships geared toward history, political science, and social sciences. The innovative focus fosters a deeper understanding of American identity and citizenship.
Townsend Harris High School
In Flushing, Queens, Townsend Harris High School is recognized for its demanding academic programs rooted in the humanities and liberal arts. The school reports a 100% graduation rate and a college readiness score of 97.6. Its diverse student body and inclusive environment nurture intellectual curiosity and mutual respect. The school emphasizes advanced coursework and college preparation, consistently ranking highly in state assessments and college acceptance metrics.
Baccalaureate School for Global Education
The Baccalaureate School for Global Education emphasizes international understanding and global citizenship. Its curriculum features international studies, languages, and cultural awareness. It holds a 97% graduation rate and a college readiness score of 87. The school’s focus on global issues prepares students to navigate increasingly interconnected world markets and societies, fostering leadership and diplomatic skills.
Jericho Senior High School
In Nassau County, Jericho Senior High School stands out for its academic performance and comprehensive programs. The school maintains a 98% graduation rate alongside a college readiness score of 86.3. Its supportive community and challenging academics contribute to high rankings in assessments and college preparedness, emphasizing continual academic improvement and student success.
Success Academy High School of Liberal Arts – Harlem
Located in Harlem, Success Academy High School of Liberal Arts emphasizes a liberal arts-focused curriculum. While its 73% graduation rate is lower than some counterparts, it boasts a perfect college readiness score of 100. Its innovative, project-based learning approach enhances student engagement and preparation for college, targeting critical skills in communication, research, and analysis.
Eleanor Roosevelt High School
In Manhattan, Eleanor Roosevelt High School offers a highly regarded curriculum with a focus on academic excellence and personal growth. It reports a 98% graduation rate and a college readiness score of 93.7. Its extracurricular offerings—arts, athletics, and leadership programs—support a supportive environment for well-rounded student development. The school fosters intellectual curiosity alongside personal achievement.
Edgemont Junior-Senior High School
Located in Scarsdale, Westchester County, Edgemont Junior-Senior High School is recognized for its rigorous academics and community engagement. The school maintains a 99% graduation rate and a college readiness score of 79.8. Its focus on critical thinking and problem-solving prepares students for success in diverse academic and professional tracks. A supportive environment promotes high achievement and lifelong learning skills.
Millennium Brooklyn High School
Millennium Brooklyn High School emphasizes progressive, project-based learning tailored to real-world applications. It maintains a 100% graduation rate and a college readiness score of 84.5. The school’s innovative approach encourages student engagement through collaborative projects, research, and internships, fostering skills relevant for higher education and workforce entry.
Bethpage High School
In Nassau County, Bethpage High School is notable for its academic achievements and community involvement. Serving over 1,000 students, it offers advanced placement courses and comprehensive extracurriculars. Its recognition as a National Blue Ribbon School highlights its overall high standards and student performance. The school emphasizes both academic excellence and community partnerships, fostering well-prepared graduates.
Albany High School
Situated in New York’s capital, Albany High School serves approximately 2,670 students. Established in 1868, it provides diverse programs, including the International Baccalaureate, and a broad range of extracurricular activities. Its legacy of academic excellence and community engagement cement it as a regional leader in secondary education, with a focus on preparing students for global citizenship and leadership roles.
Manhattan Center for Science and Mathematics
Located in East Harlem, Manhattan Center for Science and Mathematics emphasizes STEM excellence. Its curriculum features specialized courses in science and mathematics and offers advanced placement and research opportunities. The school’s strategic position in Manhattan provides students ample exposure to cultural, professional, and academic resources, promoting a well-rounded, science-oriented education.
Binghamton High School
In Binghamton, this large public high school enrolls approximately 1,290 students. It offers a broad curriculum designed to meet diverse academic interests and talents. The school emphasizes inclusivity, academic excellence, and extracurricular engagement, fostering a supportive environment for student growth. Binghamton High School remains a vital educational hub driving community development and student success.
These high schools exemplify the highest standards of public education in New York State. Their diverse programs, dedicated staff, and high-performance metrics collectively contribute to the state’s reputation for exemplary secondary education. Each school’s unique approach and strengths provide students with pathways toward academic achievement and personal development.
Author: STAFF HERE NEW YORK WRITER
The NEW YORK STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewYork.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New York, the five boroughs, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as New York Fashion Week, Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, and Tribeca Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce and United Way of New York, plus leading businesses in finance and media that power the local economy such as JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, and Bloomberg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBuffalo.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into New York's dynamic landscape.
