Best public high schools in Washington
As filmmaker and writer Nora Ephron said during a ’96 commencement address at Wellesley College, “Your education is a dress rehearsal for a life that is yours to lead.” If that’s the case, high school may be one of the greatest dress rehearsals of all.
It’s a place where students explore their interests, dive into extracurricular activities, finally get the freedom to choose their own classes, and prepare for college or the workplace. For many of these students and their families, public education is key: 49.4 million students enrolled in public pre-K-12 schools in fall 2021, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Of those, about a third were in high school, enrolled across about 23,500 public secondary schools nationwide.
For many anxious parents, getting their kids into the best of these public high schools is of the utmost importance. Some families even move homes to get into better school districts. However, among all of these thousands of schools, a few stand out for their academic excellence, incredible track records, and the future success of their young students.
Stacker compiled a list of the 30 best public high schools in Washington using 2023 rankings from Niche. Niche uses seven weighted factors for its rankings. A majority of the score is based on academics, but other factors include culture and diversity; sports; clubs and activities; resources; and surveys of parents, teachers, and students. School districts are provided when available; otherwise, the city is listed instead.
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#30. Shorecrest High School
– Location: Shoreline School District, WA
– Enrollment: 1,501 (24:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A
About
Shorecrest High School is widely recognized for its rigorous academics and vibrant school culture. Students can access advanced coursework, strong arts programs, and competitive athletics. Teachers emphasize high expectations while offering personalized support.
The school fosters collaboration through clubs, service groups, and leadership opportunities. Students develop critical thinking and communication skills across disciplines. This balanced approach helps graduates thrive in college and careers.
Innovative learning spaces and technology enhance day-to-day instruction. Project-based experiences connect classroom concepts to real-world applications. Families value the school’s consistent results and student-centered focus.
Shorecrest’s inclusive environment celebrates diversity and belonging. Counselors and staff prioritize wellness alongside achievement. These strengths help explain its standing among the state’s best.
Where is Shorecrest High School?
Shorecrest High School is in Shoreline, just north of Seattle. The community blends residential neighborhoods with parks and shoreline access. Its proximity to major employers and universities expands enrichment options for students. Local arts, transit, and recreation create a supportive setting for learning.
#29. Ingraham High School
– Location: Seattle Public Schools, WA
– Enrollment: 1,461 (21:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A
About
Ingraham High School is known for strong academics and a culture of inclusion. Students challenge themselves through advanced courses and engaging electives. Educators cultivate curiosity and a growth mindset.
The school offers robust activities in arts, athletics, and student leadership. These experiences build teamwork, resilience, and confidence. Participation connects students to the broader community.
College and career readiness resources are embedded throughout the program. Counseling, tutoring, and enrichment help students meet ambitious goals. Families appreciate clear pathways to postsecondary success.
Ingraham’s welcoming environment supports diverse learners. Collaboration among staff, students, and families drives consistent improvement. This steady excellence keeps Ingraham among Washington’s top schools.
Where is Ingraham High School?
Ingraham High School is located in north Seattle. The area features established neighborhoods, urban parks, and accessible transit. Students can tap cultural institutions, libraries, and internships nearby. The city’s innovation ecosystem offers unique learning extensions.
#28. Curtis Senior High School
– Location: University Place School District, WA
– Enrollment: 1,345 (22:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A
About
Curtis Senior High School combines academic rigor with extensive extracurricular options. Students explore Advanced Placement courses and specialized programs. Teachers emphasize critical thinking, writing, and problem-solving.
Athletics and performing arts have a strong tradition of success. Clubs and service groups offer leadership and collaboration experiences. These opportunities enrich school life and build community.
Support systems help students set and reach ambitious goals. Counseling, advising, and targeted interventions promote growth. Families value the school’s responsive communication and guidance.
Graduates leave prepared for college, careers, and civic engagement. Curtis’s balanced approach consistently earns regional recognition. This record explains its placement among the state’s best.
Where is Curtis Senior High School?
Curtis Senior High School is in University Place, near Tacoma. The city offers waterfront access, community parks, and local businesses. Its proximity to regional colleges expands enrichment options. A strong civic network supports youth development and activities.
#27. Sehome High School
– Location: Bellingham School District, WA
– Enrollment: 1,158 (21:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A
About
Sehome High School is celebrated for academic strength and student wellness. A wide course catalog includes advanced classes and interdisciplinary options. Educators blend rigor with individualized support.
Experiential learning connects studies to the surrounding environment. Field-based projects, service, and internships build real-world skills. Students develop leadership by participating in clubs and teams.
The school invests in inclusive practices and student voice. Counseling, advisory, and mentorship help learners navigate challenges. Families appreciate the school’s holistic approach to success.
Sehome’s consistent outcomes reflect thoughtful instruction and community partnership. Graduates demonstrate readiness for college and careers. These qualities secure Sehome’s reputation statewide.
Where is Sehome High School?
Sehome High School is in Bellingham near the Salish Sea. The city features trails, waterfront access, and an active arts scene. Its university presence enhances academic collaboration and resources. Outdoor opportunities support environmental and wellness programming.
#26. Vashon Island High School
– Location: Vashon Island School District, WA
– Enrollment: 542 (21:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A
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About
Vashon Island High School offers a distinctive small-school experience. Students benefit from close relationships with teachers and staff. The curriculum blends academic challenge with creative exploration.
Arts, theater, and music thrive alongside strong core academics. Students take on leadership through clubs, service, and outdoor programs. These experiences nurture confidence and initiative.
Personalized guidance supports varied postsecondary pathways. Advising helps students tailor courses to interests and goals. Families praise the school’s attentive communication and care.
Graduates leave with strong collaboration and problem-solving skills. The island setting encourages community engagement and stewardship. This unique model earns recognition across Washington.
Where is Vashon Island High School?
Vashon Island High School is on Vashon Island in Puget Sound. The community is accessible by ferry from Seattle and Tacoma. Natural areas and farms shape local culture and activities. The island’s tight-knit networks provide abundant volunteer and arts opportunities.
#25. Inglemoor High School
– Location: Northshore School District, WA
– Enrollment: 1,561 (20:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A
About
Inglemoor High School is known for academic rigor and program breadth. Students pursue Advanced Placement options and distinctive electives. Teachers emphasize inquiry, analysis, and communication.
The school supports thriving arts and athletics communities. Performances, exhibitions, and competitions showcase student talent. Participation promotes balance, leadership, and school pride.
College and career readiness resources are widely available. Counselors guide course planning, testing, and applications. Partnerships connect students to internships and mentorships.
Inglemoor’s inclusive culture values diverse perspectives. Continuous improvement efforts sustain high outcomes. These strengths place it among the state’s leading schools.
Where is Inglemoor High School?
Inglemoor High School serves the Northshore area near Kenmore and Bothell. The community blends residential neighborhoods with lakes and parks. Proximity to high-tech corridors expands STEM opportunities. Transit and trails support easy access to regional amenities.
#24. Kamiak High School
– Location: Mukilteo School District, WA
– Enrollment: 2,119 (23:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A
About
Kamiak High School pairs rigorous academics with extensive co-curriculars. Students engage in Advanced Placement, fine arts, and STEM pathways. Instruction emphasizes collaboration and scholarly habits.
Music and performing arts enjoy a distinguished tradition. Athletics and clubs offer inclusive participation at many levels. These programs cultivate commitment and teamwork.
Student services focus on wellness and academic planning. Advising, tutoring, and enrichment help learners progress confidently. Families note effective communication and supportive culture.
Kamiak’s results reflect sustained excellence across disciplines. Graduates are well-prepared for selective colleges and careers. This profile secures its standing among Washington’s finest.
Where is Kamiak High School?
Kamiak High School is in Mukilteo near the Paine Field area. The community features waterfront views, aviation history, and parks. Nearby employers and colleges provide enrichment connections. Regional transit links students to broader cultural resources.
#23. Hanford High School
– Location: Richland School District, WA
– Enrollment: 1,888 (22:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A
About
Hanford High School delivers strong academics with a STEM emphasis. Advanced coursework and labs foster scientific literacy and analysis. Teachers encourage curiosity, precision, and collaboration.
Clubs, competitions, and service projects broaden student experience. Athletics and arts provide balanced opportunities for growth. Students build confidence through performance and teamwork.
College and career counseling supports ambitious aspirations. Partnerships with regional organizations expand experiential learning. Families value the clear pathways to postsecondary success.
Hanford’s consistent outcomes reflect methodical teaching and support. Graduates are ready for technical fields and liberal studies. These achievements underpin its top-tier reputation.
Where is Hanford High School?
Hanford High School is in Richland in the Tri-Cities region. The area has deep scientific roots and growing industries. Parks, riverfront access, and museums enrich local life. The regional economy creates varied internship opportunities.
#22. Lake Washington High School
– Location: Lake Washington School District, WA
– Enrollment: 1,930 (20:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A
About
Lake Washington High School is recognized for academic excellence and innovation. Students access Advanced Placement courses and interdisciplinary electives. Instruction emphasizes creativity, research, and problem-solving.
A broad slate of activities supports balanced development. Athletics, arts, and clubs connect students to peers and mentors. Leadership roles help learners practice initiative and service.
College readiness resources include advising, workshops, and partnerships. Support structures ensure students meet challenging expectations. Families appreciate transparent communication and collaboration.
Lake Washington’s outcomes reflect sustained effort and community support. Graduates succeed in selective universities and dynamic careers. These hallmarks place it among Washington’s best.
Where is Lake Washington High School?
Lake Washington High School is in Kirkland along the Eastside. The city offers lakeside parks, a walkable downtown, and tech proximity. Access to regional employers creates enrichment and mentorship options. Cultural events and trails enhance student life year-round.
#21. Olympia High School
– Location: Olympia School District, WA
– Enrollment: 1,840 (22:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A
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About
Olympia High School blends rigorous academics with civic engagement. Students pursue challenging coursework and advanced electives. Teachers encourage inquiry, debate, and collaboration.
Clubs, arts, and athletics provide wide participation opportunities. Service learning connects studies to local needs and issues. Students practice leadership through council and community projects.
Support systems help learners plan for life after graduation. Advising, internships, and partnerships open clear pathways. Families praise the school’s inclusive, student-centered approach.
Olympia’s outcomes reflect thoughtful teaching and community ties. Graduates enter college with strong writing and analytical skills. These strengths uphold its statewide reputation.
Where is Olympia High School?
Olympia High School is in Washington’s capital city. Government, higher education, and nonprofits shape local opportunities. Parks, waterfronts, and trails support outdoor recreation and wellness. The city’s civic life offers rich contexts for student learning.
#20. Liberty Senior High School
– Location: Issaquah School District, WA
– Enrollment: 1,481 (23:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A
About
Liberty Senior High School emphasizes high expectations and support. Students access rigorous courses, STEM options, and arts pathways. Instruction focuses on collaboration and real-world application.
Athletics and activities promote school spirit and connection. Clubs invite students to explore interests and serve others. Performance opportunities build confidence and communication skills.
Comprehensive counseling guides academic planning and readiness. Workshops and mentoring assist with testing and applications. Families value the school’s proactive, student-first practices.
Liberty’s graduates demonstrate resilience and academic depth. Consistent results reflect sustained improvement and teamwork. These factors place Liberty among the state’s top schools.
Where is Liberty Senior High School?
Liberty Senior High School serves the eastern portion of the Issaquah area. The community features wooded neighborhoods and extensive trail systems. Proximity to employment centers expands internship possibilities. Regional transit links students to cultural and academic resources.
#19. Bellevue Big Picture School
– Location: Bellevue School District, WA
– Enrollment: 364 (23:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A
About
Bellevue Big Picture School offers a project-based, personalized model. Students learn through internships, exhibitions, and advisory. The approach cultivates ownership, reflection, and advocacy.
Academic rigor is integrated with real-world problem solving. Interdisciplinary projects require research, collaboration, and design. Teachers coach students to set meaningful goals.
Strong relationships underpin the school’s small-community feel. Regular check-ins keep learning plans aligned and responsive. Families appreciate clear communication and partnership.
Graduates demonstrate maturity, initiative, and career awareness. The model suits diverse learners pursuing varied pathways. These qualities make it a standout in Washington.
Where is Bellevue Big Picture School?
Bellevue Big Picture School is in Bellevue on the Eastside. The city’s innovation economy supports mentorships and internships. Parks, libraries, and community centers enrich student life. Proximity to transit and universities broadens opportunities year-round.
#18. Garfield High School
– Location: Seattle Public Schools, WA
– Enrollment: 1,675 (25:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A
About
Garfield High School is renowned for academic challenge and historic legacy. Students access advanced courses and notable performing arts. Faculty cultivate scholarship, creativity, and civic engagement.
Extracurriculars include championship athletics and distinguished music programs. Clubs and leadership roles encourage initiative and service. These experiences connect students to a vibrant community.
College counseling supports ambitious postsecondary goals. Alumni networks and partnerships expand enrichment options. Families value the school’s traditions and outcomes.
Garfield’s graduates are prepared for selective universities and leadership roles. Consistent performance underscores its statewide stature. These strengths keep Garfield among the top public schools.
Where is Garfield High School?
Garfield High School is in Seattle’s Central District. The neighborhood has deep cultural roots and active arts scenes. Nearby institutions offer internships, concerts, and exhibits. Urban amenities and transit make enrichment highly accessible.
#17. Bainbridge High School
– Location: Bainbridge Island School District, WA
– Enrollment: 1,275 (20:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A
About
Bainbridge High School combines rigorous academics with small-community support. Students engage in Advanced Placement courses and rich electives. Educators emphasize inquiry, collaboration, and reflection.
Athletics and arts are integral to campus culture. Performances, exhibitions, and competitions showcase student talent. Clubs and service projects extend learning beyond classrooms.
Guidance services help students map personalized pathways. Advising, workshops, and mentoring build readiness and confidence. Families note strong communication and supportive practices.
Graduates leave with critical thinking and leadership skills. Consistent outcomes demonstrate effective teaching and engagement. These hallmarks explain its statewide recognition.
Where is Bainbridge High School?
Bainbridge High School is on Bainbridge Island across from Seattle. Ferry access connects students to regional cultural resources. Parks, trails, and waterfront areas support outdoor learning. The island’s strong civic organizations enrich student opportunities.
#16. Roosevelt High School
– Location: Seattle Public Schools, WA
– Enrollment: 1,575 (21:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A
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About
Roosevelt High School is recognized for academic excellence and arts leadership. Students challenge themselves through Advanced Placement and honors courses. Instruction emphasizes research, writing, and collaboration.
Music and theater hold a celebrated place in school life. Athletics and clubs provide balanced participation for all interests. These programs nurture creativity and perseverance.
College and career services guide thoughtful planning. Students receive support for testing, applications, and scholarships. Families appreciate the school’s responsiveness and care.
Roosevelt’s long-standing record reflects quality teaching and engagement. Graduates succeed in competitive programs nationwide. These achievements sustain its top-tier standing.
Where is Roosevelt High School?
Roosevelt High School is in north Seattle near major parks. The neighborhood features transit access, libraries, and local businesses. Proximity to universities enhances academic collaboration and events. Community amenities support year-round enrichment.
#15. Sammamish High School
– Location: Bellevue School District, WA
– Enrollment: 1,287 (21:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A
About
Sammamish High School emphasizes inquiry-driven, collaborative learning. Students take rigorous courses across STEM, humanities, and arts. Teachers design projects that integrate real-world challenges.
Athletics and activities invite broad participation and leadership. Clubs span robotics, service, and creative pursuits. These experiences build confidence and community.
Comprehensive counseling supports goal-setting and readiness. Students receive guidance on coursework, testing, and applications. Families value transparent communication and data-informed supports.
Sammamish’s results reflect persistent innovation and care. Graduates are prepared for selective colleges and evolving careers. This profile secures its strong statewide reputation.
Where is Sammamish High School?
Sammamish High School is in Bellevue with convenient regional access. The city hosts technology companies, parks, and cultural venues. Libraries and community partners create mentoring opportunities. Transit and trails connect students to nearby resources.
#14. Woodinville High School
– Location: Northshore School District, WA
– Enrollment: 1,672 (21:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A
About
Woodinville High School blends academic rigor with community involvement. Students pursue Advanced Placement courses and diverse electives. Instruction develops analysis, collaboration, and effective communication.
Athletics, DECA, and performing arts enjoy strong participation. Clubs and competitions foster leadership and school pride. Students discover interests while building real-world skills.
Support services address wellness and academic planning. Counselors collaborate with families to personalize pathways. Enrichment and tutoring help sustain high achievement.
Woodinville’s consistent performance reflects shared expectations. Graduates are prepared for rigorous postsecondary programs. These attributes keep it among the state’s best.
Where is Woodinville High School?
Woodinville High School is in Woodinville northeast of Seattle. The area is known for parks, trails, and a vibrant winery district. Proximity to employment centers expands internship options. Community events and arts venues enrich student life.
#13. Issaquah High School
– Location: Issaquah School District, WA
– Enrollment: 2,464 (24:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
About
Issaquah High School is distinguished by academic depth and scale. Students access numerous Advanced Placement courses and electives. Teachers set high standards while providing targeted support.
Athletics and activities offer pathways for leadership and service. Performing arts and competitive teams achieve regular accolades. Participation strengthens belonging and resilience.
College readiness systems include advising, seminars, and partnerships. Students receive guidance for course sequencing and applications. Families value the school’s comprehensive planning tools.
Issaquah’s outcomes highlight consistent excellence across subjects. Graduates are competitive for selective universities nationwide. These results explain its top ranking in the state.
Where is Issaquah High School?
Issaquah High School is in Issaquah at the base of the Issaquah Alps. The community features trail networks, parks, and historic downtown amenities. Access to nearby employers supports mentoring opportunities. Regional transit links students to cultural and academic hubs.
#12. Mercer Island High School
– Location: Mercer Island School District, WA
– Enrollment: 1,544 (20:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
About
Mercer Island High School combines rigorous academics with extensive arts. Students engage in Advanced Placement courses and performance programs. Instruction builds analytical, creative, and collaborative capacities.
Athletics and clubs support wide student participation. Leadership roles help learners develop voice and initiative. Service projects connect studies to community needs.
College counseling provides personalized planning and workshops. Students receive support for testing, applications, and scholarships. Families appreciate consistent communication and results.
Mercer Island’s graduates are well-prepared for competitive pathways. High expectations and strong supports drive sustained success. These features secure its elite statewide status.
Where is Mercer Island High School?
Mercer Island High School is on Mercer Island between Seattle and Bellevue. The location offers easy access to cultural and academic institutions. Parks and waterfront areas enhance recreation and wellness. The community’s resources create rich enrichment opportunities.
#11. Eastlake High School
– Location: Lake Washington School District, WA
– Enrollment: 2,302 (20:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
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About
Eastlake High School is known for academic rigor and STEM opportunities. Students pursue Advanced Placement, technology courses, and design challenges. Teachers emphasize inquiry, iteration, and collaboration.
Athletics and performing arts maintain strong traditions. Clubs and competitions encourage leadership and creativity. These programs build confidence and school pride.
Advising and college planning are integral to student success. Support services help learners navigate demanding schedules. Families value the school’s proactive communication.
Eastlake’s performance reflects sustained excellence across disciplines. Graduates are prepared for rigorous postsecondary programs. These strengths justify its high statewide ranking.
Where is Eastlake High School?
Eastlake High School serves the Sammamish and Redmond plateau area. The community offers parks, lakes, and trail systems. Proximity to technology employers expands mentorship opportunities. Regional transit connects students to museums and universities.
#10. Skyline High School
– Location: Issaquah School District, WA
– Enrollment: 2,218 (23:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
About
Skyline High School delivers high-level academics with broad offerings. Students access Advanced Placement courses and specialized electives. Instruction emphasizes problem-solving, communication, and collaboration.
Athletics and activities are a hallmark of campus life. Teams, performances, and clubs support diverse interests. Participation nurtures leadership and resilience.
Comprehensive counseling supports multi-year planning and readiness. Students receive guidance on coursework, testing, and applications. Families note strong coordination among staff and programs.
Skyline’s outcomes demonstrate consistent, high achievement. Graduates are competitive applicants to selective institutions. These results position it among Washington’s best.
Where is Skyline High School?
Skyline High School is in Sammamish on the Eastside. The area features neighborhoods, parks, and lake access. Nearby employers and colleges create enrichment possibilities. Community amenities support year-round student engagement.
#9. Redmond High School
– Location: Lake Washington School District, WA
– Enrollment: 2,161 (20:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
About
Redmond High School pairs academic rigor with real-world relevance. Students engage in Advanced Placement courses and STEM pathways. Teachers design projects that emphasize research and communication.
Arts, athletics, and activities offer broad participation. Clubs in technology, business, and service are highly active. These programs build confidence and collaborative skills.
Advising and support services promote college and career readiness. Students receive targeted guidance for complex schedules and goals. Families value transparency and strong outcomes.
Redmond’s results reflect a culture of innovation and care. Graduates succeed in selective programs and dynamic fields. These hallmarks support its top-tier standing.
Where is Redmond High School?
Redmond High School is in Redmond, a major Eastside hub. The city is home to technology employers, parks, and trails. Cultural venues and libraries enrich learning beyond classrooms. Transit provides access to regional universities and museums.
#8. North Creek High School
– Location: Northshore School District, WA
– Enrollment: 1,698 (20:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
About
North Creek High School is a newer campus with forward-looking design. Students access advanced coursework and integrated STEM options. Instruction highlights collaboration, problem-solving, and presentation skills.
Athletics and performing arts have grown rapidly and successfully. Clubs and competitions serve diverse interests and talents. These experiences strengthen community and engagement.
Student services support wellness and academic planning. Advising and enrichment help learners meet ambitious goals. Families appreciate the school’s responsive communication.
North Creek’s outcomes show fast-rising achievement and participation. Graduates are well-prepared for selective colleges and careers. These traits place it among the region’s leaders.
Where is North Creek High School?
North Creek High School serves the Bothell area within Northshore. The community offers parks, trails, and access to high-tech corridors. Nearby institutions provide mentoring and internship options. Transit links students to cultural and academic centers.
#7. Bellevue High School
– Location: Bellevue School District, WA
– Enrollment: 1,514 (15:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
About
Bellevue High School is renowned for rigorous academics and tradition. Students take challenging courses across STEM, humanities, and arts. Faculty emphasize scholarship, integrity, and service.
Athletics and activities enjoy sustained participation and success. Clubs, publications, and performance groups showcase student leadership. These opportunities build community and pride.
College guidance is comprehensive and individualized. Support for testing, applications, and scholarships is readily available. Families value consistent communication and results.
Bellevue’s graduates are competitive nationally and globally. Longstanding excellence underpins its high statewide ranking. These qualities keep it among Washington’s best.
Where is Bellevue High School?
Bellevue High School is in downtown-adjacent Bellevue on the Eastside. The area features parks, libraries, and cultural venues. Proximity to employers enables unique mentorship opportunities. Transit access connects students to universities and museums.
#6. International School
– Location: Bellevue School District, WA
– Enrollment: 591 (23:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
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About
International School offers a rigorous, integrated 6–12 program. A humanities core complements advanced math, science, and languages. Small cohorts create strong relationships and accountability.
Project-based learning develops research and presentation skills. Students connect disciplines through interdisciplinary seminars. Teachers set high standards with close support.
World languages and global perspectives are central to the mission. Cultural events and exchanges broaden student horizons. Families value the school’s coherent, college-prep sequence.
Graduates earn admission to selective universities worldwide. Consistent outcomes reflect a focused, collaborative model. These hallmarks secure its elite statewide position.
Where is International School?
International School is in Bellevue within the Eastside corridor. The location provides access to libraries, arts centers, and parks. Nearby institutions support internships and academic partnerships. Transit links students to regional cultural resources.
#5. Raisbeck Aviation High School
– Location: Highline School District, WA
– Enrollment: 402 (21:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
About
Raisbeck Aviation High School specializes in aerospace and STEM. Students learn through rigorous courses, labs, and industry partnerships. The curriculum emphasizes engineering design and problem-solving.
Projects and internships connect learning to real-world contexts. Mentors from aviation and technology fields guide student work. Exhibitions and presentations develop professional skills.
The school’s small size supports personalized advising and support. Cohorts encourage collaboration and persistence. Families appreciate clear pathways to technical and academic futures.
Raisbeck’s outcomes include high college placement and industry readiness. Its niche focus creates distinctive opportunities for learners. These strengths justify its top statewide ranking.
Where is Raisbeck Aviation High School?
Raisbeck Aviation High School is in the Highline area near major aviation facilities. The region’s aerospace footprint enables authentic learning experiences. Museums, airports, and companies provide mentorship and resources. Transit and highways offer broad access to cultural institutions.
#4. Interlake High School
– Location: Bellevue School District, WA
– Enrollment: 1,569 (15:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
About
Interlake High School is known for advanced academics and IB options. Students pursue rigorous coursework across STEM and humanities. Teachers promote inquiry, analysis, and global perspectives.
Activities include competitive teams, arts, and service organizations. Leadership roles allow students to shape school initiatives. These experiences foster confidence and collaboration.
Guidance services support complex academic planning. Students receive help with testing, applications, and scholarships. Families value the school’s responsiveness and results.
Interlake’s consistent outcomes reflect careful instruction and engagement. Graduates thrive at selective universities and in technical fields. This record sustains its elite reputation.
Where is Interlake High School?
Interlake High School is in Bellevue north of downtown. The community features parks, recreation centers, and libraries. Proximity to employers and colleges expands enrichment options. Transit connections link students to regional cultural venues.
#3. International Community School
– Location: Lake Washington School District, WA
– Enrollment: 430 (19:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
About
International Community School offers a small, rigorous college-prep program. Students engage in integrated humanities and advanced STEM. Teachers prioritize discussion, research, and reflective writing.
Clubs and service projects extend the curriculum into the community. Arts and activities provide creative outlets and leadership roles. These opportunities build belonging and initiative.
Advising supports individualized academic planning and readiness. Students receive guidance for testing and selective admissions. Families appreciate the school’s cohesive model and outcomes.
ICS graduates earn admission to competitive universities. Consistent achievement reflects strong relationships and high standards. These hallmarks explain its top ranking.
Where is International Community School?
International Community School is in Kirkland within the Lake Washington district. The city offers waterfront parks, trails, and cultural amenities. Nearby employers and colleges support mentoring partnerships. Transit and community programs enrich student experiences.
#2. Newport High School
– Location: Bellevue School District, WA
– Enrollment: 1,792 (20:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
About
Newport High School is distinguished by academic rigor and STEM excellence. Students access Advanced Placement, technology courses, and research opportunities. Instruction emphasizes problem-solving, collaboration, and communication.
Performing arts and athletics maintain strong traditions of success. Clubs in robotics, business, and service engage large numbers. These activities cultivate leadership and resilience.
Comprehensive counseling supports strategic academic planning. Students receive guidance for competitive college admissions. Families value the school’s data-informed supports and results.
Newport’s graduates are prepared for selective universities worldwide. Consistent outcomes confirm its elite statewide standing. These strengths secure its top-tier reputation.
Where is Newport High School?
Newport High School is in Bellevue’s south end near major corridors. The area includes parks, community centers, and libraries. Proximity to employers enables mentoring and internships. Transit options connect students to universities and cultural venues.
#1. Tesla STEM High School
– Location: Lake Washington School District, WA
– Enrollment: 610 (21:1 student to teacher ratio)
– Niche grade: Grade A+
About
Tesla STEM High School is a selective program focused on science and engineering. Students tackle advanced coursework, research, and design challenges. The school’s culture emphasizes inquiry, iteration, and ethics.
Learning centers on labs, projects, and real-world problem solving. Partnerships with universities and industry deepen experiences. Students present findings to authentic audiences.
Small cohorts and advising support intensive, personalized learning. Faculty coach students through ambitious goals and collaborations. Families value the school’s clarity of mission and outcomes.
Tesla STEM’s graduates excel in competitive STEM programs. High achievement reflects rigorous instruction and student drive. These traits define its position as Washington’s top public high school.
Where is Tesla STEM High School?
Tesla STEM High School is in Redmond within the Lake Washington district. The location sits near technology corridors and research partners. Parks and trails provide outdoor and wellness opportunities. Transit and regional institutions expand academic and cultural access.
This story features data reporting and writing by Emma Rubin and is part of a series utilizing data automation across 50 states.
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