Top 10 Best Public High Schools
U.S. News evaluated more than 29,000 schools for the 2015 Best High Schools rankings. These 10 schools scored the highest out of the 500 top-ranked gold medal schools.
10. Gilbert Classical Academy High School
The Gilbert Classical Academy High School uses the Socratic method of teaching to encourage critical thinking and prepare students for college-level courses. Located in Arizona, the school currently serves students in grades 7-12.
Learn more about Gilbert Classical Academy.
9. Lamar Academy
Lamar Academy is geared toward providing students with a global education. The Texas school offers the International Baccalaureate diploma program.
Learn more about Lamar Academy.
8. University High School
In Arizona, University High School offers a variety of academics, electives and athletics for accepted students. Students have the opportunity to take Advanced Placement courses.
Learn more about University High School.
7. Academic Magnet High School
All academic courses at Academic Magnet High School are Advanced Placement or honors level. Students at the South Carolina high school have to complete a yearlong independent research project before graduation.
Learn more about Academic Magnet High School.
6. Carnegie Vanguard High School
Carnegie Vanguard High School is a Texas school for talented and gifted teens. Students can take either pre-Advanced Placement or AP courses.
Learn more about Carnegie Vanguard High School.
5. School of Science and Engineering Magnet
This Texas school focuses on preparing its students to compete globally in science and engineering. Students at SEM can take accelerated classes in science, English, math and computer science, allowing them to move at their own pace.
Learn more about the School of Science and Engineering Magnet.
4. Gwinnett School of Mathematics, Science and Technology
GSMST serves as one of several schools focused on science, technology, engineering and math within the Gwinnett County Public Schools system in Georgia. Students have the opportunity to take Advanced Placement course work and exams.
Learn more about the Gwinnett School of Mathematics, Science and Technology.
3. Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology
Located in Virginia, TJHSST offers a STEM-focused curriculum and houses 15 specialized research labs, including ones dedicated to astrophysics, microelectronics and oceanography.
Learn more about Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology.
2. BASIS Scottsdale
BASIS Scottsdale is one of more than a dozen BASIS charter schools located in Arizona. The high school offers a variety of honors and Advanced Placement courses for students.
Learn more about BASIS Scottsdale.
1. School for the Talented and Gifted
This Dallas high school follows Texas’ Distinguished Achievement Program. Most of the academic courses are Advanced Placement, including electives.
Learn more about the School for the Talented and Gifted.
More About the Best High Schools
For more Best High Schools rankings and data, check out the top charter schools and top magnet schools.
Read our High School Notes blog to stay up to date on high school news. Connect with U.S. News Education on Google+ and Facebook, or tweet @USNewsEducation using the hashtag #BestHighSchools to share your thoughts on the rankings.
More from U.S. News
Demographic Breakdown of the 2015 Best High Schools
How U.S. News Calculated the 2015 Best High Schools Rankings
How States Compare in the 2015 Best High Schools Rankings
See the 2015 Best High Schools originally appeared on usnews.com
