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Update: This article was last updated on 19th September 2023 to reflect the accuracy and up-to-date information on the page.
Education is crucial in determining how people and society will develop and a school system’s effectiveness can significantly impact how well pupils learn. Several special school districts in the United States stand out for their dedication to academic success, innovative teaching techniques, and comprehensive student development.
In the 2017 Census of Governments, the United States Census Bureau documented the following counts of educational systems in the United States:
- 12,754 school district administrations
- 571 county-affiliated educational systems
- 223 municipal-affiliated educational systems
- 32 state-affiliated educational systems
- 481 township-affiliated educational systems
In this article, we’ll look at the top 15 school districts in the United States, known for their excellent educational offerings, committed faculty, and unwavering dedication to empowering kids to succeed in a constantly changing environment.
Join us as we explore these exceptional districts and learn how they are influencing American education in the future.
1. Adlai E. Stevenson High School District No. 125
Many national publications have often included Stevenson in the lists of America’s best public high schools. In 2015 and 2013, U.S. News and World Report ranked Stevenson as the 46th best STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) program in the country. Stevenson received top ratings (A+) in these categories: academics, teachers, educational results, health and safety, resources and buildings, sports and fitness, extracurricular activities, food service, and administration and rules.
Website: https://www.d125.org/
Location: 1 Stevenson Drive, Lincolnshire, Illinois 60069
Contact: 847-415-4000
- Total Schools: 2
- High school: 2
- Number of students served: 4392
- Average graduation rate: 98%
- Student-teacher ratio: 16:1
- Average math proficiency score: 72%
- Average reading proficiency score: 74%
- Average SAT Score: 1360
- Average ACT Score: 31
2. Montgomery County Public Schools, Maryland
Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS), in the suburbs of Washington, D.C., are frequently rated as among the best in the country. MCPS emphasizes equity and inclusivity and has a diverse student body. It provides challenging academic programs, extensive extracurricular activities, and various support services.
Website: https://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/
Location: 850 HUNGERFORD DRIVE ROCKVILLE, MD 20850
Contact: 240-740-3000
- Total Schools: 209
- Pre-School: 93
- Elementary: 139
- Middle school: 44
- High school: 30
- Number of students served: 160,564
- Average graduation rate: 89%
- Student-teacher ratio: 14:1
- Average maths proficiency score: 48%
- Average reading proficiency score: 55%
- Average SAT Score: 1260
- Average ACT Score: 29
3. Scarsdale Union Free School District, New York
Located in Westchester County, The Scarsdale Union Free School District has carved a niche for producing outstanding academic results. The district is proud of its well-educated residents, dedicated faculty, and challenging curriculum that promotes analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
Website: https://www.scarsdaleschools.k12.ny.us/
Location: 2 BREWSTER RD SCARSDALE, NY 10583
Contact: 914-721-2410
- Total Schools: 7
- Pre School: 0
- Elementary: 5
- Middle school: 1
- High school: 1
- Number of students served: 4,657
- Average graduation rate: 99%
- Student-teacher ratio: 13:1
- Average maths proficiency score: 90%
- Average reading proficiency score: 87%
- Average SAT Score: 1400
- Average ACT Score: 32
4. Glenbrook High School District 225
Glenbrook students excel in academics and extracurriculars, with a wide variety of sports and clubs to choose from. The district prioritizes excellent education and responsible finances, maintaining quality even in tough economic times. Its tax rates and per-student spending are among the lowest in the area.
Website: https://www.glenbrook225.org/
Location: 3801 W LAKE AVE, GLENVIEW, IL 60026
Contact: (847) 998-6100
- Total Schools: 2
- High school: 2
- Number of students served: 5,132
- Average graduation rate: 96%
- Student-teacher ratio: 15:1
- Average math proficiency score: 62%
- Average reading proficiency score: 64%
- Average SAT Score: 1320
- Average ACT Score: 30
5. Jericho Union Free School District
The Jericho Union Free School District, situated in Jericho, NY, is highly regarded and a top-rated public school district. Its goal is to create a diverse learning community that serves every student’s needs. They do this by providing a comprehensive and stimulating curriculum and by strengthening educational partnerships. Their aim is to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and support they need to be prepared for college, career, and to be productive global citizens.
Website: https://www.jerichoschools.org/
Location: 99 CEDAR SWAMP RD, JERICHO, NY 11753
Contact: (516) 203-3600
- Total Schools: 5
- Elementary: 3
- Middle school: 1
- High school: 1
- Number of students served: 3,182
- Average graduation rate: 99%
- Student-teacher ratio: 12:1
- Average math proficiency score: 91%
- Average reading proficiency score: 86%
- Average SAT Score: 1420
- Average ACT Score: 32
Overall District Rank
6. Syosset Central School District
The Syosset Central School District’s mission is to prepare students to succeed in both the future we can foresee and in one that might change in ways we can’t predict yet. Syosset empowers students to unlock their full intellectual potential and encourages a lifelong love of learning.
Website: syossetschools.org
Location:99 PELL LN, SYOSSET, NY 11791
Contact: (516)-364-5605
- Total Schools: 10
- Elementary: 7
- Middle school: 2
- High school: 1
- Number of students served: 6,797
- Average graduation rate: 96%
- Student-teacher ratio: 11:1
- Average math proficiency score: 88%
- Average reading proficiency score: 82%
- Average SAT Score: 1380
- Average ACT Score: 30
Overall Testing Rank
Source: https://www.publicschoolreview.com/
7. Roslyn Union Free School District
Located in the vibrant community of Roslyn, New York, the Roslyn Union Free School District is a hub of education and opportunity. With a commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and community engagement, the district strives to prepare students for a bright and successful future.
Website: roslynschools.org
Location: 300 HARBOR HILL RD, ROSLYN, NY 11576
Contact: (516)-801-5001
- Total Schools: 5
- Elementary: 3
- Middle school: 1
- High school: 1
- Number of students served: 3,318
- Average graduation rate: 97%
- Student-teacher ratio: 13:1
- Average math proficiency score: 83%
- Average reading proficiency score: 82%
- Average SAT Score: 1390
- Average ACT Score: 31
Source: https://www.usnews.com/education/k12/new-york/districts/roslyn-union-free-school-district-103652
8. Greenwich Public Schools, Connecticut
Exceptional for its dedication to quality and individualized instruction, Greenwich Public Schools (GPS) offers a wide range of programs, including advanced placement courses, internships, and community service activities, to fulfill the different needs of students. GPS places a significant emphasis on individualized education plans.
Website: https://www.greenwichschools.org/
Location: 290 GREENWICH AVENUE, GREENWICH, CT 06830
Contact: 203-625-7400
- Total Schools: 15
- Pre-Schools: 5
- Elementary: 11
- Middle school: 3
- High school: 1
- Number of students served: 8,773
- Average graduation rate: 96%
- Student-teacher ratio: 12:1
- Average maths proficiency score: 71%
- Average reading proficiency score: 78%
- Average SAT Score: 1270
- Average ACT Score: 30
9. Palo Alto Unified School District, California
Situated in the heart of Silicon Valley, the Palo Alto Unified School District (PAUSD) reaps the benefits of its proximity to renowned tech giants.
STEM education is highly valued by PAUSD, which gives students access to state-of-the-art tools and promotes an innovative culture.
Website: https://www.pausd.org/
Location: 25 CHURCHILL AVE PALO ALTO, CA 94306
Contact: 650-329-3700
- Total Schools: 19
- Pre School: 0
- Elementary: 14
- Middle school: 4
- High school: 4
- Number of students served: 10,754
- Average graduation rate: 95%
- Student-teacher ratio: 17:1
- Average maths proficiency score: 81%
- Average reading proficiency score: 81%
- Average SAT Score: 1400
- Average ACT Score: 31
10. Cherry Creek School District, Colorado
This school district has won a reputation for its dedication to academic success. The Cherry Creek School District (CCSD) provides a supportive learning environment for pupils from all backgrounds and a well-rounded curriculum that includes active arts and athletic programs.
Website: https://www.cherrycreekschools.org/
Location: 4700 SOUTH YOSEMITE STREET GREENWOOD VILLAGE, CO 80111
Contact: 303-773-1184
- Total Schools: 70
- Pre-School: 46
- Elementary: 47
- Middle school: 18
- High school: 10
- Number of students served: 54,184
- Average graduation rate: 90%
- Student-teacher ratio: 16:1
- Average maths proficiency score: 44%
- Average reading proficiency score: 53%
- Average SAT Score: 1250
- Average ACT Score: 27
11. Austin Independent School District, Texas
Academic rigor and a solid commitment to community engagement are combined in the Austin Independent School District (AISD). AISD supports student voices, fosters innovation, and provides a variety of educational possibilities, including bilingual education and specialized programs for gifted pupils.
Website: https://www.austinisd.org/
Location: 4000 S IH 35 FRONTAGE RD AUSTIN, TX 78704
Contact: 512-414-1700
- Total Schools: 126
- Pre-School: 79
- Elementary: 85
- Middle School: 27
- High School: 21
- Number of students served: 74,871
- Average graduation rate: 93%
- Student-teacher ratio: 14:1
- Average maths proficiency score: 52%
- Average reading proficiency score: 51%
- Average SAT Score: 1230
- Average ACT Score: 27
12. Great Neck Public Schools, New York
This Long Island-based district is known for its dedication to academic excellence and cultural diversity. It offers various extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and theatre, allowing students to pursue their interests and talents.
Website: https://www.greatneck.k12.ny.us/
Location: 345 LAKEVILLE RD GREAT NECK, NY 11020
Contact: 516-441-4001
- Total Schools: 10
- Pre-School: 2
- Elementary: 5
- Middle School: 2
- High School: 3
- Number of students served: 6,831
- Average graduation rate: 93%
- Student-teacher ratio: 10:1
- Average maths proficiency score: 86%
- Average reading proficiency score: 83%
- Average SAT Score: 1380
- Average ACT Score: 30
13. Naperville Community Unit School District 203, Illinois
One of the best school districts in Illinois, Naperville Community Unit School District 203 (CUSD 203), places a significant emphasis on developing well-rounded persons by giving them a solid foundation in academics, the arts, sports, and volunteer work.
Website: https://www.naperville203.org/
Location: 203 W HILLSIDE RD NAPERVILLE, IL 60540
Contact: 630-420-6311
- Total Schools: 22
- Pre-School: 6
- Elementary: 15
- Middle School: 5
- High school: 2
- Number of students served: 16,289
- Average graduation rate: 98%
- Student-teacher ratio: 15:1
- Average maths proficiency score: 64%
- Average reading proficiency score: 72%
- Average SAT Score: 1380
- Average ACT Score: 30
14. Fairfax County Public Schools, Virginia
The largest school district in Virginia and one of the biggest in the country is Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS). For kids to get a thorough education that equips them for success, FCPS offers a rich curriculum, excellent special education programs, and many extracurricular options.
Website: https://www.fcps.edu/index.shtml
Location: 8115 GATEHOUSE RD FALLS CHURCH, VA 22042
Contact: 571-423-1010
- Total Schools: 222
- Pre-School: 144
- Elementary: 143
- Middle school: 130
- High school: 30
- Number of students served: 180,028
- Average graduation rate: 86%
- Student-teacher ratio: 15:1
- Average maths proficiency score: 85%
- Average reading proficiency score: 81%
- Average SAT Score: 1280
- Average ACT Score: 29
15. Ann Arbor Public Schools, Michigan
The Ann Arbour Public Schools (AAPS) in Michigan give kids a well-rounded education and are renowned for their dedication to academic quality and innovation. AAPS strongly emphasizes encouraging creativity, critical thinking, and teamwork to provide students with the tools they need to succeed in a world that is changing quickly.
Website: https://www.a2schools.org/
Location: 2555 S STATE ST ANN ARBOR, MI 48104
Contact: (734) 994-2230
- Total Schools: 32
- Pre-School: 2
- Elementary: 21
- Middle School: 7
- High School: 36
- Number of students served: 17,451
- Average graduation rate: 89%
- Student-teacher ratio: 14:1
- Average math proficiency score: 66%
- Average reading proficiency score: 70%
- Average SAT Score: 1320
- Average ACT Score: 30
These districts are excellent examples of the enormous dedication and efforts made by educators, administrators, and communities to offer students top-notch educational opportunities. It places a high value on academic rigor, promotes a positive learning atmosphere, and provides a variety of chances for intellectual and personal development.
These districts are leading the way for educational success in the country by emphasizing equity, innovation, and the total development of pupils.
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These school districts are like incubators for the future leaders and innovators of our world. They’re not just teaching subjects; they’re nurturing creativity, problem-solving skills, and a hunger for knowledge that will drive progress in the coming years.
While these districts sound impressive on paper, I wonder if these statistics truly reflect the quality of education students receive. Standardized test scores and graduation rates are important, but they don’t always capture the full picture of a student’s educational experience.
Are these districts striking the right balance between technology and traditional education?
The balance between technology and traditional education varies among U.S. school districts. Some strike the right balance by integrating technology effectively, while others may face challenges in resource allocation and equitable access. Achieving the right balance requires ongoing evaluation and a focus on enhancing, not replacing, traditional teaching methods.
These prominent National school districts struggle with issues such as providing equitable access to high-quality education, meeting the requirements of a diverse student body, and finding sufficient money.
They utilize technology and collaborate with companies to expand possibilities, to create inclusive opportunities. By overcoming obstacles and grasping chances, these school districts are able to offer top-notch education.
For the above top 15 school districts, what is the average SAT score?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average SAT score for the 15 school districts with advanced degrees in the U.S. is 1515. The national average is 1051.
How can other school districts learn from these top schools’ best practices?
School districts can learn a lot from the best performing districts in the country. Here are some of the key ideas they can use: have a rigorous academic program with chances to take advanced courses, hire and keep top-notch teachers, create a supportive learning atmosphere, use tech to help students learn, and team up with businesses and other community groups. Improve performance by setting high standards, keeping track of student progress, getting regular feedback from parents, fostering a team-oriented culture and learning from mistakes and successes. By following these tips, school districts can give students a top-notch education and create a great learning environment.