* Raw numbers: Simply counting the number of graduates accepted to Ivies each year. This favors large, affluent schools.
* Acceptance rate: Comparing the percentage of graduates applying to and accepted by Ivies. This favors schools with highly selective student bodies.
* Per capita success: Measuring Ivy League acceptance rates relative to the school's overall graduating class size. This provides a more nuanced view.
That said, some high schools consistently appear near the top of various rankings, often clustered in wealthy suburban areas. These tend to include schools in:
* New York City: Schools like Horace Mann, Bronx Science, Stuyvesant High School, Dalton School, and Trinity School are frequently mentioned. The specific ranking varies depending on the year and methodology.
* Suburban New York: Schools in areas like Westchester County and Long Island consistently send a high number of students to Ivies. Specific names change depending on the ranking but often include schools known for their academic rigor and resources.
* Massachusetts: Schools near Boston, particularly those in affluent towns, also regularly send many students to Ivy League schools.
* California: While fewer in number than the East Coast, some elite private schools in California also see a high proportion of students accepted to Ivies.
Important Note: These are just examples, and many other excellent high schools across the country have impressive Ivy League acceptance rates. Furthermore, focusing solely on Ivy League acceptance overlooks the success of students attending other highly selective colleges and universities. The "best" high school is ultimately subjective and depends on individual student needs and goals.