20 Best Public Schools In The US

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A Public school is a school that is managed at public expense by the city, state, or federal government for the education of the children. Public schools are free from kindergarten till high school level in the US. The Office of Elementary and Secondary Education is responsible for maintaining free education policies among the students in the country.

Some of the best public schools in the US furnish students with a route for academic and real-life achievements. Other than that, schools in the states offer counseling for college, financial support, and scholarship applications. Here 20 best schools in the US ranked according to Niche.


1. Pine View School

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  • Ranking: 1st in Best Public Elementary Schools
  • Rating: 4 starts
  • Location: Osprey, Florida

Apart from being ranked the no.1 best public elementary school in the United States, it is rated as the no.1 school in Florida. Pine View School is a public school founded as the first school for the intellectually gifted in 1969. The school offers education to students from 2 to 12 grades. The school combines contemporary classroom learning with autonomous study, mini-courses, and other ungraded classes in its curriculum.

It is regarded as the best public school in the state as well as national levels. The school emphasizes parents’ involvement through various extracurricular programs.

2. BASIS Mesa

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  • Ranking: 2nd in Best Public Elementary Schools
  • Rating: 3.5 stars
  • Location: S East mark PKWY, Mesa, Arizona

BASIS Mesa is a public school with free tuition fees serving education to students in grades K-12. It is one of the reputed sections of the BASIS charter Schools network founded in 1998. Degreed Subject Expert Teachers (SETs) who are experts in their fields teach in this school.

The school encourages its students in every grade to "apply today's knowledge to tomorrow's problems." The teachers try to deliver their ultimate knowledge, expertise, and passion to educate the children. The curriculum is based on STEM and Liberal Arts.

3. A.D. Henderson University School & FAU High School

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  • Ranking: 3rd in Best Public Elementary Schools
  • Rating: 4.5 stars
  • Location: Boca Raton, Florida

Not only is this school the third-best public elementary school in the US, but it is also the second-best public high school in Florida. It is the top-rated elementary-middle school on the campus of Florida Atlantic University. The school was founded in 1968 as a developmental research lab school to develop instructions and studies in particular subjects to enhance outcomes.

86% of the students are competent in math and 91% in reading. According to the reviews, most of the parents and students feel that this school is competitive, creative, and artsy.

4. BASIS Flagstaff

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  • Ranking: 4 in Best Public Elementary Schools
  • Rating: 4 starts
  • Location: Flagstaff, Arizona

It is a free school that serves students in grades K-12. This part of the BASIS Charter Schools network has been providing education since 1998. The school depends upon innovative curriculums and the Subject Expert Teachers (SETs) model to help their students reach greater heights. The education starts from kindergarten with energetic, related programs for setting up a strong academic foundation.

The middle school and high school students are competent enough to master difficult content while also working towards higher educational goals. The school offers college counseling starting from grade 8.

5. Mt. Everest Academy

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  • Ranking: 5th in Best Public Elementary Schools
  • Rating: 4.5 stars
  • Location: San Diego, California

Mt. Everest Academy is no.1 best public elementary school in California. It is a top-rated school with plenty of clubs and organizations for students to get involved in. With amazing and caring teachers, the students are provided with diverse opportunities to be involved in advanced courses and learning opportunities.

The average graduation rate of this school is 90% with 87% of the students proficient in reading and 77% of them in math. The school is diverse in racial and economic terms. Overall, the school offers a great atmosphere for learning with good teachers and advanced learning methods.

6. Self-Development Academy

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  • Ranking: 7th in Best Public Elementary Schools
  • Rating: 4.5 stars
  • Location: Mesa, Arizona

Self-Development is another top-rated elementary public school with 422 students. It is a K-8 school founded in 2000. With further expansion plans, a second school was opened in Phoenix, Arizona in 2015. They are recognized nationally as a community of caring families, passionate and highly skilled educators, and bright scholars.

An accelerated curriculum is followed, customized to the individual learning strength. Apart from the best math and science programs, the school offers stellar art education and gifted programs to make sure that all students are engaged, motivated, and driven.

7. Star Gate Charter School

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  • Ranking: 8th in Best Public Elementary Schools
  • Rating: 4.5 stars
  • Location: Thornton, Colorado

Apart from being the 8th best public school in the whole US, it is the No.1 best public school in Colorado. Founded in 1994, it is a public school for gifted and talented children offering education from kindergarten to 12 grades. The school prioritizes critical thinking, student participation, and accepting mistakes as part of learning.

Each level of education involves a distinct and personalized curriculum that provides flexibility in the process of learning. Overall, the school challenges students through each level, assists their special emotional needs, and encourages individual character promotion.

8. New Explorations into Science, Technology & Math School (NEST+M)

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  • Ranking: 9th in Best Public Elementary Schools
  • Rating: 4 stars
  • Location: Manhattan, New York

New Explorations into Science, Technology & Math School is a top rated school offering education from K-12 grades. It is the only K-12 grade school in Manhattan that was established in 2001. It this school, any qualified elementary or middle school students may enroll and can enjoy the only program with dedicated facility in NY.

According to the review, the school has the most supportive teachers and helpful seniors. The student body and organizations have their independent say in the school and are heard during curriculum activities.

9. Granada Hills Charter

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  • Ranking: 10th in Best Public Elementary Schools
  • Rating: 4 stars
  • Location: Granada Hills, California

Rated as no.1 best charter elementary school in California, Granada Hills Charter was founded in 1960. It is an autonomous school with more than 5,800 students in grades K-12. The school is widely recognized for its high academic performance and has won seven National Academic Decathlon Championships.

With the help of skilled and visionary teachers, the students are prepared to take control of their future. It is one of the largest and top-rated schools that witness massive applications yearly. The school focuses on developing academic curiosity, practical skills, and optimistic thoughts.

10. BASIS Tucson Primary School

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  • Ranking: 11th in Best Public Elementary Schools
  • Rating: 3 stars
  • Location: Tucson, Arizona

BASIS Tucson Primary School was founded in 1998. It is a tuition-free public school that offers education from K-4 grades. With the help of innovative curriculums and Subject Expert Teachers, the school is driven to help students achieve their goals. The students are continuously challenged, groomed, and engaged in certain activities.

A co-teaching model that involves two teachers in each class is followed till K-3. The school has a disciplined and focused administrative, focused on organizing creative learning and an athletic environment. Most of the students in this school are performing at or above average grade levels.

11. North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics (NCSSM)

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  • Ranking: 1st in Best Public High Schools
  • Rating: 4.5 stars
  • Location: Durham, North Carolina

The mission of NCSSM is to motivate North Carolina’s youth to seek science, engineering, technology, and math studies. The school offers a two-year learning program based on the STEM method.

Established in 1980, admission is really selective with a 24% acceptance rate. The school won the Spaces for Innovation Challenge in 2015 sponsored by the North Carolina State University’s Institute for Emerging Issues. The school encourages students to think outside the box. These mentorship, research, and projects help them be independent in their respective fields of education.

12. Walter Payton College Preparatory High School

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  • Ranking: 2nd in Best Public High Schools
  • Rating: 4 stars
  • Location: Chicago, Illinois

Apart from being 2nd best public high school in the US, it is 1st best magnet high school in the country. Founded in 2000, the school offers four years of education focused on some advanced courses like math, science, language, and the humanities. Students can learn by participating in exchange programs in countries such as France, Belize, and South Africa.

The school is named after a footballer for the Chicago Bears, Walter Payton. The school has become more competitive in recent years with the process of admission being most selective. The school offers many clubs and organizations for students to get involved with.

13. The Davidson Academy

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  • Ranking: 3rd in Best Public High Schools
  • Rating: 4.5 stars
  • Location: Reno, Nevada

Being 3rd best public high school in the US, The Davidson Academy is also one of the best public high schools in Nevada. The school offers education from grades 5-12 for profoundly gifted students. The unique feature of this school is that it categorizes students in terms of their ability rather than their age. The middle and high school levels are offered based on a person’s ability, strength, and interest.

The school follows an interpersonal and instructional-based learning atmosphere, filled with intellectual energy. The school is reviewed as a truly unique educational institution with brilliant students eager to learn.

14. MA Academy for Math & Science

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  • Ranking: 4th in Best Public High Schools
  • Rating: 4.5 stars
  • Location: Worcester, Massachusetts

Founded in 1992 by the Massachusetts State Legislature as a public, magnet school, the school teaches math, science, and technology for grades eleven and twelve. It emphasizes math and science with inclusive, and interactive programs. A person applying to this school must first apply in the sophomore year of high school.

 The admission process is very selective and depends upon a student’s grade, teacher recommendations, academy exams, and essays. Extra curriculum activities include Biotechnology, Computer-Aided Design, Café Nights, Student Government, and many others.

15. Northside College Preparatory High School

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  • Ranking: 5th in Best Public High Schools
  • Rating: 4 stars
  • Location: Chicago, Illinois

It is also the 2nd best public high school in Illinois founded in 1999. It is one of the most selective schools that offers education at the Honors and AP levels only. The school has received acclamation for its academic excellence. The math program at this high school is different from others, as it prioritizes the Interactive Mathematics Program, rather than traditional math programs.

Special education services are offered for students with diagnosed disabilities. Extra Curriculum includes students participating in the Chicago Public League and being a part of the Illinois High School Association.

16. Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (IMSA)

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  • Ranking: 6th in Best Public High Schools
  • Rating: 4 stars
  • Location: Aurora, Illinois

IMSA was established in 1985 as a public STEM academy that offers three-year secondary education. The school is widely recognized for its challenging, motivating, and caring attitude to focus on improving other’s lives. The admission process is very selective and a student has to pass certain levels of tests to get enrolled.

The school provides a challenging and rigorous learning environment. The classes are advanced and the staff try to make it the place for great learning and possibilities. The school has been frequently ranked as the top ten high schools in the US for its math, and science courses.

17. Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology

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  • Ranking: 7th Best Public High Schools
  • Rating: 4 stars
  • Location: Alexandria, Virginia

Established in 1985, the school includes 1,902 students in grades 9-12. With its advanced STEM programs, students can choose extensive courses like Computer Science, Prototyping Development, and Organic Chemistry. One of the best parts of this school is that students must prepare a Senior Research project that summarizes their three years of education in the school.

It is ranked as the 1 best public high school in Virginia according to Niche. The school environment is great with enthusiastic students, motivating teachers, and with competitive nature to brighten and inspire the minds of the upcoming generation.

18. High Technology High School

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  • Ranking: 9th Best Public High Schools
  • Rating: 4 stars
  • Location: Lincroft, New Jersey

Founded in 1991, High Technology High School is a four-year public high school that focuses on teaching pre-engineering courses with interconnection between mathematics, science, and the humanities. The school also focuses on civil engineering and architecture, computer-based manufacturing, and digital electronics programs.

Students have the opportunity to earn extra credit scores by being involved in the main course in association with Rochester Institute of Technology, Georgian Court University, and Brookdale Community College. The school also encourages active parent involvement with the help of the Parent Faculty Association, open houses, and other programs.

19. Whitney M. Young Magnet High School

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  • Ranking: 10th in Best Public High Schools
  • Rating: 4 stars
  • Location: Chicago, Illinois

Whitney M. Young Magnet High School is a four-year high school and middle school founded in 1970. The name of the school is based on Whitney Moore Young Jr., a renowned African-American civil rights leader. The school falls under the supervision of the Chicago Public Schools district.

Admission to this school follows a series of entrance exams that include standardized test scores, and elementary school grades. There are many extracurricular activities available for students to take part in, including basketball, cross country, track, and math teams.

20. The Academy for Mathematics, Science & Engineering

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  • Ranking: 11th in Best Public High School
  • Rating: 4 stars
  • Location: Rockaway, New Jersey

The Academy for Mathematics, Science & Engineering is regarded as the top high school for STEM in America. The school focuses on the four-year program to help students advance in the STEM field. Located on the campus of Morris Hills High School, courses begin in grade 9 and end in grade 12.

The facilities offered in this school are exceptional with full 3D printers, plasma cutters, drills, lathes, and many other equipment. Throughout these four years, students have the opportunity to explore diverse topics ranging from biotechnology to business courses.

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