Full guide to the best High schools in Baltimore
As one of the largest cities in Maryland, Baltimore offers an impressive array of high school options for local families. From elite private college preparatory academies to highly-rated public magnet programs, there are excellent choices for students of all interests and academic levels. This guide will highlight some of the top high schools in the Baltimore area across public and private institutions.
Top Public High Schools
Baltimore City Public Schools operates several stand-out high school programs that attract top students from across the region:
Baltimore Polytechnic Institute
Often ranked as the #1 public high school in Maryland, Baltimore Poly is a nationally-acclaimed math, science, and computer science magnet program. Its exemplary STEM curriculum, passionate teachers, and abundance of AP courses make it a top choice.
Western High School
As part of the esteemed Western High School/College Academy, Western provides an unparalleled education focused on mathematics, science, engineering, and technology. Its unified K-12 model and rewarding partnership with Johns Hopkins allow advanced students to thrive.
Eastern Technical High School
Eastern Tech is the largest career and technical high school in Baltimore County. It offers exceptional technical programs spanning construction, information technology, healthcare, and more to prepare students for in-demand careers or further study.
Elite Private Schools
Families seeking an elite private school experience have several top contenders in Baltimore as well:
Gilman School
One of the oldest and most prestigious private schools nationwide, Gilman provides an exceptional all-boys college preparatory education from kindergarten through 12th grade. Its accomplished faculty, innovative curriculum, and stately campus make it a perennial top choice.
Friends School
Baltimore Founded on Quaker principles, Friends emphasizes ethics, critical thinking, and experiential learning across its nursery through 12th grade programs. Its inquiry-based approach, global initiatives, and emphasis on STEM and arts make it highly compelling.
Additional Standout Options:
- Baltimore City College (a top public high school)
- McDonogh School (a private K-12 day school)
- Oldfields School (an all-girls boarding school)
- Park School of Baltimore (a private K-12 progressive education school)
- Maryvale Preparatory School (an all-girls Catholic high school)
Deciding Factors
When evaluating Baltimore’s wealth of high school options, key factors for families to consider include:
- Academic rigor and college preparedness
- Faculty caliber and student-teacher ratios
- Extracurricular offerings like clubs, sports, arts
- School culture, community, and values
- Tuition costs for private schools and availability of financial aid
In Baltimore, Whether prioritizing elite college preparation, a well-rounded educational experience, a specific academic focus, or an environment tailored to a student’s learning needs, the Baltimore region provides high school choices to match virtually any family’s preferences.
With such an impressive array of top-notch public and private school options, Baltimore families can find the ideal high school fit for their children’s academic pursuits and long-term success. Learn more about Know this before you move to Baltimore MD
Popular Queries
Public schools are funded by local, state, and federal governments and do not charge tuition. Private schools charge tuition and receive funding from independent sources. Public schools must follow state education standards, while private schools have more flexibility.
Extracurriculars play a major role, allowing students to explore interests, develop leadership skills, and enhance their college applications. Top schools offer a diverse array of clubs, sports, arts programs, and more.
Elite private school admissions can be highly competitive, often considering test scores, grades, essays, interviews, and extracurricular involvement. Many have admission deadlines over a year in advance.
Yes, Baltimore has several public magnet high schools, like Western High School and Eastern Technical High School, that students must apply and test into based on academic performance.
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