Based on comprehensive rankings, Metro Academic and Classical High School is widely recognized as the top-ranked high school in the St. Louis area. While "best" can be subjective and depend on individual needs, these rankings typically evaluate schools based on a variety of academic and student success indicators.
Understanding "Best" in School Rankings
Determining the "best" school often involves evaluating multiple factors to provide a holistic view of educational quality. Reputable ranking systems commonly assess schools based on criteria such as:
- College Readiness: This includes student participation and performance on Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) exams, which indicate a school's ability to prepare students for higher education.
- State Assessment Performance: How well students perform on mandated state tests in subjects like reading and mathematics, often compared to district and state averages.
- Graduation Rates: The percentage of students who successfully graduate within a standard timeframe, reflecting overall student retention and completion.
- Underserved Student Performance: Analyzing the academic performance of traditionally underserved groups, which helps gauge a school's commitment to educational equity.
- Student-Teacher Ratio: The number of students per teacher, often indicating class size and the potential for individualized attention.
These metrics provide a framework for comparing schools and identifying those that excel across various aspects of education.
Top-Ranked High Schools in the St. Louis Area
While Metro Academic and Classical High School leads the rankings, several other institutions in the St. Louis metropolitan area are highly regarded for their academic excellence and comprehensive programs. These schools consistently demonstrate strong performance across the key ranking indicators.
| Rank (Approximate) | School Name | Location | Noteworthy Aspects |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Metro Academic and Classical High School | St. Louis, MO | Known for its rigorous academic curriculum and selective enrollment. |
| 2 | Ladue Horton Watkins High School | Ladue, MO | High college readiness, strong academic programs, and diverse extracurricular offerings. |
| 3 | Clayton High School | Clayton, MO | Consistently recognized for high academic achievement and robust student support. |
| 4 | Lafayette Sr. High School | Wildwood, MO | Offers a wide range of courses and strong performance in various academic competitions. |
| 5 | Kirkwood Sr. High School | Kirkwood, MO | Emphasizes a comprehensive educational experience with strong community involvement. |
| - | STEAM Academy at McCluer South-Berkeley High | Ferguson, MO | Focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics education. |
| - | Ft. Zumwalt West High School | O'Fallon, MO | Large school with diverse programs and opportunities for students. |
| - | Ft. Zumwalt South High School | St. Peters, MO | Strong academic and athletic programs within the larger Fort Zumwalt School District. |
These schools are recognized for their commitment to providing a high-quality education, preparing students for future success in higher education and beyond.
