According to the latest data released by U.S. News & World Report, New Jersey’s high schools rank third in the nation, following Massachusetts and Connecticut. The ranking covers approximately 18,000 public high schools across the United States, with all data used from the 2022 to 2023 academic year.
The ranking system evaluates high schools based on college readiness, including the percentage of students participating in Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) programs, as well as the percentage of students scoring 3 or higher on relevant exams, accounting for 40% of the school’s overall score.
Graduation rates and standardized test scores make up 30% of the ranking, with an additional 10% weight given to measuring the school’s support for low-income, Black, and Latino students. Overall, about 40% of high schools in New Jersey rank in the top 25% nationally, demonstrating the balance of educational resources and the outstanding overall quality of education in the state.
High Technology High School in Lincroft, Monmouth County once again stands out, ranking first in the state and first among STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) high schools nationwide. Known for its small class sizes, engineering-focused curriculum, and partnerships with multiple universities, students at this school gain valuable experience through project-based learning and research training, with graduates generally possessing strong academic and practical skills.
Another noteworthy school is Bergen County Academies in Bergen County. This school excels in diverse academic programs, with near-perfect participation rates in AP courses and maintaining a leading position both in-state and nationally. The curriculum is designed to incorporate science, humanities, and arts, nurturing students with professional skills and interdisciplinary perspectives.
New Jersey’s ranking as the third best in the nation is closely tied to the state’s long-standing emphasis on educational investment and curriculum innovation. The well-developed system of career and specialty high schools allows many students to receive specialized and cutting-edge training during their high school years. Additionally, both the state government and individual school districts prioritize academic equity, providing support measures for students from different backgrounds, contributing to the maintenance of high-quality overall data.
Education experts point out that New Jersey’s success lies in its pursuit of excellence while ensuring an inclusive educational model. On one hand, the state’s top high schools lead the nation in STEM education and college preparatory programs; on the other hand, its regular high schools maintain stable graduation rates and basic academic standards. For students and parents, this means that whether entering competitive professional schools or attending comprehensive community high schools, there are greater opportunities to receive quality education.
The current ranking results solidify New Jersey’s leading position in the field of American basic education and provide a reference for other states nationwide. How to balance the educational needs of different groups while maintaining overall quality is the most valuable aspect of the New Jersey experience that other states can learn from.