* Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS): Several schools within MCPS consistently rank highly. These often include, but are not limited to, Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School, Thomas S. Wootton High School, Walter Johnson High School, and Northwood High School. MCPS as a whole is known for its strong academic programs.
* Howard County Public School System (HCPSS): Similar to MCPS, HCPSS boasts several top-performing schools. These often include, but are not limited to, Centennial High School, River Hill High School, and Atholton High School.
* Other Notable Schools: While not always at the very top of every list, schools like Severna Park High School (Anne Arundel County) and many private schools in the state also frequently receive high marks.
Important Considerations:
* Ranking methodologies: Pay attention to how rankings are compiled. Some emphasize standardized test scores, others consider graduation rates, college acceptance rates, and the availability of advanced placement (AP) courses. A school might excel in one area but not another.
* School fit: The "best" high school is subjective and depends on individual student needs and learning styles. A high ranking doesn't guarantee a good fit for every student.
* Private vs. Public: This list primarily focuses on public schools, but many excellent private high schools exist in Maryland.
To find the most current rankings, I recommend searching for "best high schools in Maryland" on sites like:
* U.S. News & World Report: They publish annual high school rankings.
* Niche: This website provides school rankings and reviews based on user data and other factors.
* GreatSchools: This site offers ratings and information on schools.
Remember to use these rankings as a starting point for research and consider visiting schools and talking to current students and parents to get a better understanding of the school environment and whether it's a good fit for you.