Top 10 High Schools in Philadelphia
Hi there! My name is Emily Johnson, and I’m a proud resident of Philadelphia. As a former high school student myself, I know just how important it is to find the right school. That’s why I’ve put together this list of the top 10 high schools in Philadelphia. Whether you’re a parent or a student, I hope this article helps you make an informed decision about where to continue your education.
Curiosities and Interesting Facts
- Philadelphia has over 50 high schools to choose from.
- According to U.S. News & World Report, the top high school in Philadelphia is Masterman.
- The School District of Philadelphia serves over 200,000 students in 218 schools.
1. Julia R. Masterman Laboratory and Demonstration School
As mentioned earlier, Masterman is considered the top high school in Philadelphia by U.S. News & World Report. I attended this school myself, and I can attest to its rigorous academic program and supportive community. The student body is diverse and highly motivated, with many students going on to attend Ivy League schools. The school also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including a robotics team, a debate team, and a Model United Nations club.
2. Central High School
Central High School is a selective-admission school that only admits students who pass an entrance exam. The school has a long and storied history, having been founded in 1836. The academic program is challenging, and the school is known for its strong math and science programs. The school also has an active alumni network, with many graduates going on to become successful professionals.
3. Philadelphia High School for Creative and Performing Arts
If you’re a student interested in the arts, the Philadelphia High School for Creative and Performing Arts might be the perfect fit for you. This school offers classes in dance, theater, music, and visual arts, as well as a strong academic program. The school has produced many successful artists, including Grammy-winning musician Boyz II Men.
4. Science Leadership Academy
The Science Leadership Academy is a project-based school that emphasizes hands-on learning and real-world problem-solving. The school has a strong focus on technology and entrepreneurship, with students working on projects like designing their own apps and starting their own businesses. The school’s motto is “Learn, Create, Lead,” and many of its graduates go on to pursue careers in STEM fields.
5. Franklin Learning Center
The Franklin Learning Center is a magnet school that offers a wide range of academic programs, including an International Baccalaureate program. The school also has a strong focus on the arts, with classes in music, theater, and visual arts. The school is known for its supportive community and its commitment to preparing students for college and beyond.
6. Parkway Center City High School
Parkway Center City High School is a magnet school that offers a strong academic program with a focus on the humanities. The school is located in the heart of downtown Philadelphia, and its students have access to many cultural and educational opportunities in the city. The school also has a strong commitment to community service, with students volunteering at local organizations and participating in service projects.
7. Masterman Secondary School
Masterman Secondary School is a selective-admission school that shares a campus with Masterman Laboratory and Demonstration School. The school has a strong academic program, with a focus on math and science. The school also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including a robotics team and a Model United Nations club.
8. Academy at Palumbo
The Academy at Palumbo is a magnet school that offers a strong academic program with a focus on science and technology. The school has a diverse student body and a supportive community, with many opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities. The school is also known for its commitment to preparing students for college and beyond.
9. Carver High School of Engineering and Science
The Carver High School of Engineering and Science is a selective-admission school that offers a strong academic program with a focus on engineering and science. The school has a diverse student body and a supportive community, with many opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities. The school is also known for its commitment to preparing students for college and careers in STEM fields.
10. Northeast High School
Northeast High School is a large, comprehensive high school that offers a wide range of academic programs, including an International Baccalaureate program. The school has a diverse student body and a supportive community, with many opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities. The school is also known for its strong athletics program.
FAQs
What is the best high school in Philadelphia?
According to U.S. News & World Report, the best high school in Philadelphia is Julia R. Masterman Laboratory and Demonstration School.
What is the process for getting into a selective-admission high school?
Each selective-admission high school has its own admissions process, but generally, students must take an entrance exam and meet certain academic and behavioral requirements.
What is a magnet school?
A magnet school is a public school that offers specialized programs and curriculum to attract students from a wider geographic area.
What is the International Baccalaureate program?
The International Baccalaureate program is an internationally recognized program of study that emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and a global perspective. Students who complete the program can earn an IB diploma, which is recognized by universities around the world.
What is the average class size in Philadelphia high schools?
The average class size in Philadelphia high schools is 25 students.
What is the graduation rate for Philadelphia high schools?
The graduation rate for Philadelphia high schools is 69%, according to the School District of Philadelphia.
What extracurricular activities are available at Philadelphia high schools?
Philadelphia high schools offer a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports teams, music and theater programs, debate teams, robotics teams, and more.
What is the cost of attending a Philadelphia high school?
Philadelphia high schools are public schools and do not charge tuition. However, there may be costs associated with extracurricular activities, such as sports equipment or musical instruments.
What is the student-teacher ratio in Philadelphia high schools?
The student-teacher ratio in Philadelphia high schools is 15:1.