Top-Rated High Schools in Missouri for College Preparation and Academic Excellence
Choosing the best high school for your child is a big decision. In Missouri, several top-performing schools stand out for their academics, college readiness, and strong student outcomes. These high schools offer rigorous curriculum, advanced placement (AP) courses, and exceptional support for students aiming for college success.
In this guide, you’ll discover highly-rated Missouri high schools recognized for their academic programs and college prep success. This list includes public and charter schools with excellent standardized test scores, graduation rates, and college enrollment statistics.
What Makes a Missouri High School Great for Academics and College Prep?
High-achieving high schools in Missouri share specific qualities that support college-bound students. When evaluating schools, consider these academic and preparatory factors:
- High Advanced Placement (AP) and Honors course offerings
- Strong ACT and SAT average scores
- Highly qualified teaching staff and student-teacher ratios
- Graduation rates above state and national averages
- College enrollment rates and school partnerships with universities
- Extracurricular programs that support leadership and academics
Schools with these features often rank among the best high schools in Missouri and help students achieve their college goals.
Best Public and Charter High Schools in Missouri for College Readiness
These Missouri high schools consistently deliver outstanding academic performance. They rank among the most effective schools in preparing students for college and beyond.
Ladue Horton Watkins High School – Ladue, MO
Ladue Horton Watkins High School is renowned for academic achievement and high college admission rates. With a broad selection of AP courses and honors classes, this public high school supports student success at all levels. The school boasts high ACT scores and an impressive graduation rate.
Kirkwood High School – Kirkwood, MO
Kirkwood High School offers a well-rounded academic program with a focus on college preparation. The school’s college counseling services are strong, and many graduates go on to attend top national universities. Kirkwood is also known for its active student involvement and supportive academic environment.
Lafayette High School – Wildwood, MO
As part of the Rockwood School District, Lafayette High School is committed to high academic expectations. It offers a broad array of AP courses and has a competitive academic environment. Their college prep program includes career pathway courses and dual-credit opportunities.
Metro Academic and Classical High School – St. Louis, MO
This public magnet school is consistently ranked among the top high schools in Missouri. Metro’s intensive academic program includes a classical education model, which helps students excel in critical thinking, writing, and college-level coursework. Its graduates often attend selective colleges.
Parkway West High School – Ballwin, MO
Known for its excellent STEM programs and academic leadership, Parkway West High School supports students with AP classes, SAT and ACT prep, and college resources. The school’s culture encourages personal achievement and college success.
The Pembroke Hill School – Kansas City, MO (Private School)
Pembroke Hill is one of Missouri's top independent college prep schools. While it's a private institution, it offers a challenging college-focused curriculum with strong support for individualized learning. Many students enroll in elite colleges across the U.S.
Lindbergh High School – St. Louis, MO
This high-performing public school offers a wide selection of college-level courses, including AP and dual-credit programs. Lindbergh has an excellent college and career counseling department, helping students plan for future academic paths.
Missouri School Rankings Based on Academic Achievement
Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) and national ranking agencies assess schools based on:
- Standardized test scores (ACT, SAT, MAP)
- AP course participation and pass rates
- Graduation rates and post-secondary enrollment
- College readiness index scores
Public data from sources like U.S. News & World Report, GreatSchools, and niche ratings highlight the ongoing academic performance of these Missouri high schools.
FAQ: Top Missouri High Schools for Academic Success
Which Missouri high school has the highest ACT scores?
Metro Academic and Classical High School often reports among the highest ACT averages in Missouri due to its challenging curriculum and selective enrollment process.
Are there any top public high schools in Missouri for STEM?
Yes, Parkway West High School and Lafayette High School have strong STEM programs with multiple AP science and math options. These schools support students interested in engineering and technology careers.
What is the best charter high school in St. Louis for academics?
Some charter schools, such as Gateway STEM High School, offer specialized curriculums focused on science and technology, making them strong options for academic and technical college prep.
How can you tell if a Missouri high school is good for college prep?
Look at the school’s college admission rate, number of AP courses offered, average ACT/SAT scores, and whether the school provides college counseling and support services such as dual-credit classes.
Is private school better for academics in Missouri?
Private schools like Pembroke Hill and MICDS (Mary Institute and Saint Louis Country Day School) offer excellent academics, but public schools like Ladue and Metro also rank highly and provide strong college preparation without tuition costs.
How to Choose the Right Missouri High School for Your Student
Making the best choice involves reviewing academic offerings, campus culture, extracurricular opportunities, and overall student outcomes. Here are some helpful steps to guide your decision:
- Visit campuses and talk to teachers and counselors
- Review academic performance data and school report cards
- Ask about AP, IB, and dual-credit options
- Explore support for college applications and scholarships
- Consider student engagement in clubs, sports, and leadership
Each student has unique goals. The best high school for academics and college prep is one that aligns with their strengths, ambitions, and learning style.
Set Your Student Up for Long-Term Success
Missouri offers a variety of high schools with robust academic programs. Whether you're looking for rigorous STEM courses, college readiness training, or a supportive academic environment, you'll find the right fit within the state.
When families invest time in researching schools and understanding each school’s strengths, students are more likely to thrive. Use this guide to start your journey toward finding a high school where academic excellence and college preparation meet.
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