Choosing the right secondary school is a huge decision for families. It sets the stage for college and beyond. With so many options, figuring out where to apply can feel overwhelming. That's why we've put together this list of the top 10 best secondary schools in the US. We're diving deep into what makes these schools stand out, from their academics and extracurriculars to their campus culture and college placement rates. So, if you're starting your high school search, you've come to the right place!

1. Phillips Academy Andover

Phillips Academy Andover, often simply called Andover, consistently ranks as one of the top secondary schools in the United States. Located in Andover, Massachusetts, this co-educational boarding and day school boasts a rich history dating back to 1778. What truly sets Andover apart is its unwavering commitment to academic excellence and holistic development. The curriculum at Andover is incredibly rigorous, offering a vast array of courses across various disciplines. Students are encouraged to explore their intellectual passions and challenge themselves academically. The school's faculty comprises experienced and dedicated educators who are passionate about their subjects and committed to fostering a stimulating learning environment. Andover's resources are unparalleled, with state-of-the-art facilities, including well-equipped science labs, extensive libraries, and advanced technology. Beyond academics, Andover emphasizes the importance of character development and leadership skills. The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and community service opportunities. These activities provide students with opportunities to explore their interests, develop their talents, and contribute to the school community. Andover's commitment to diversity and inclusion is also noteworthy. The school actively seeks to enroll students from diverse backgrounds and fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment where all students feel valued and respected. Andover's graduates go on to attend the most selective colleges and universities in the world, and the school's alumni network is a valuable resource for students as they navigate their college and career paths. With its rigorous academics, commitment to holistic development, and diverse community, Phillips Academy Andover offers an exceptional educational experience.

2. Phillips Exeter Academy

Phillips Exeter Academy, located in Exeter, New Hampshire, is another powerhouse in the world of secondary education. Founded in 1781, Exeter is known for its distinctive Harkness method of teaching, where students sit around an oval table and learn through discussion and collaboration. This approach fosters critical thinking, communication skills, and active participation in the learning process. Exeter's curriculum is broad and challenging, with a wide range of courses in the humanities, sciences, and arts. The school's faculty are experts in their fields and are dedicated to providing students with a personalized and supportive learning environment. One of the things that makes Exeter special is its emphasis on intellectual curiosity and independent learning. Students are encouraged to pursue their academic interests and to take ownership of their education. The school also offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports, clubs, and arts programs, which provide students with opportunities to explore their talents and develop their leadership skills. Exeter's commitment to diversity and inclusion is also a key part of its mission. The school strives to create a welcoming and inclusive community where all students feel valued and respected. Exeter's graduates are highly sought after by top colleges and universities, and the school's alumni network is a valuable resource for students as they pursue their academic and professional goals. With its innovative teaching methods, rigorous curriculum, and commitment to diversity and inclusion, Phillips Exeter Academy offers a truly exceptional educational experience. The school's emphasis on collaboration and critical thinking prepares students for success in college and beyond. The Harkness method, in particular, is a unique and effective approach to learning that encourages students to actively engage with the material and with each other.

3. St. Paul's School

Nestled in Concord, New Hampshire, St. Paul's School is a prestigious Episcopal boarding school known for its rigorous academics and emphasis on character development. Founded in 1856, St. Paul's offers a unique and transformative educational experience. The school's curriculum is designed to challenge students intellectually and to prepare them for success in college and beyond. St. Paul's also places a strong emphasis on ethical leadership and service to others. Students are encouraged to develop a sense of social responsibility and to use their talents to make a positive impact on the world. The school's commitment to character development is evident in its honor code, which emphasizes integrity, respect, and responsibility. St. Paul's offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and community service opportunities. These activities provide students with opportunities to explore their interests, develop their talents, and contribute to the school community. The school's beautiful campus provides a serene and inspiring setting for learning and personal growth. St. Paul's commitment to diversity and inclusion is also an important part of its mission. The school strives to create a welcoming and inclusive community where all students feel valued and respected. St. Paul's graduates go on to attend top colleges and universities, and the school's alumni network is a valuable resource for students as they pursue their academic and professional goals. With its rigorous academics, emphasis on character development, and commitment to service, St. Paul's School offers a truly exceptional educational experience. The school's focus on ethical leadership and social responsibility prepares students to be engaged and responsible citizens.

4. Choate Rosemary Hall

Located in Wallingford, Connecticut, Choate Rosemary Hall is a renowned co-educational boarding school with a rich history and a commitment to academic excellence. Formed in 1974 from the merger of The Choate School and Rosemary Hall, Choate offers a comprehensive and challenging educational experience. The school's curriculum is designed to prepare students for success in college and beyond, with a wide range of courses in the humanities, sciences, and arts. Choate's faculty are dedicated and experienced educators who are passionate about their subjects and committed to fostering a stimulating learning environment. The school also offers a variety of signature programs, such as the Arts Concentration Program and the Science Research Program, which provide students with opportunities to delve deeper into their areas of interest. Choate's commitment to experiential learning is also noteworthy. The school offers a variety of opportunities for students to learn outside the classroom, through internships, research projects, and study abroad programs. These experiences provide students with valuable skills and knowledge that will serve them well in college and beyond. Choate's campus is beautiful and well-equipped, with state-of-the-art facilities, including a science center, a performing arts center, and a library. The school also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, clubs, and arts programs. Choate's graduates go on to attend top colleges and universities, and the school's alumni network is a valuable resource for students as they pursue their academic and professional goals. With its rigorous academics, commitment to experiential learning, and supportive community, Choate Rosemary Hall offers an exceptional educational experience.

5. Deerfield Academy

Deerfield Academy, situated in Deerfield, Massachusetts, is a co-educational boarding school known for its rigorous academic program and its emphasis on community engagement. Founded in 1797, Deerfield boasts a long and distinguished history of preparing students for success in college and beyond. The school's curriculum is challenging and comprehensive, with a wide range of courses in the humanities, sciences, and arts. Deerfield's faculty are dedicated and experienced educators who are passionate about their subjects and committed to fostering a supportive learning environment. A key aspect of Deerfield's approach is its emphasis on experiential learning. The school offers a variety of opportunities for students to learn outside the classroom, through internships, research projects, and service-learning programs. These experiences provide students with valuable skills and knowledge that will serve them well in college and beyond. Deerfield's commitment to sustainability is also noteworthy. The school has implemented a number of initiatives to reduce its environmental impact, and it encourages students to be environmentally conscious. Deerfield's campus is beautiful and historic, with a mix of modern and traditional buildings. The school also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, clubs, and arts programs. Deerfield's graduates go on to attend top colleges and universities, and the school's alumni network is a valuable resource for students as they pursue their academic and professional goals. With its rigorous academics, emphasis on community engagement, and commitment to sustainability, Deerfield Academy offers an exceptional educational experience.

6. Groton School

Located in Groton, Massachusetts, Groton School is a highly selective Episcopal boarding school known for its rigorous academics and its emphasis on character development. Founded in 1884, Groton has a long and distinguished history of preparing students for leadership and service. The school's curriculum is challenging and comprehensive, with a wide range of courses in the humanities, sciences, and arts. Groton's faculty are dedicated and experienced educators who are passionate about their subjects and committed to fostering a supportive learning environment. What stands out about Groton is its emphasis on ethical leadership. The school's mission is to educate students to be leaders in their communities and in the world. Groton also places a strong emphasis on service to others. Students are required to participate in community service projects, and the school encourages them to develop a sense of social responsibility. Groton's commitment to diversity and inclusion is also noteworthy. The school strives to create a welcoming and inclusive community where all students feel valued and respected. Groton's graduates go on to attend top colleges and universities, and the school's alumni network is a valuable resource for students as they pursue their academic and professional goals. With its rigorous academics, emphasis on ethical leadership, and commitment to service, Groton School offers an exceptional educational experience.

7. The Lawrenceville School

The Lawrenceville School, situated in Lawrenceville, New Jersey, is a co-educational boarding school known for its unique House system and its commitment to academic excellence. Founded in 1810, Lawrenceville offers a distinctive and transformative educational experience. The school's curriculum is challenging and comprehensive, with a wide range of courses in the humanities, sciences, and arts. Lawrenceville's faculty are dedicated and experienced educators who are passionate about their subjects and committed to fostering a stimulating learning environment. The House system at Lawrenceville is a key part of the school's identity. Students are assigned to one of ten Houses, which serve as their home away from home. The Houses provide a supportive and close-knit community where students can develop friendships and build relationships with faculty members. Lawrenceville also offers a variety of signature programs, such as the Harkness Humanities Program and the Science and Technology Program, which provide students with opportunities to delve deeper into their areas of interest. Lawrenceville's commitment to global education is also noteworthy. The school offers a variety of opportunities for students to study abroad, and it encourages them to develop a global perspective. Lawrenceville's campus is beautiful and well-equipped, with state-of-the-art facilities, including a science center, a performing arts center, and a library. The school also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, clubs, and arts programs. Lawrenceville's graduates go on to attend top colleges and universities, and the school's alumni network is a valuable resource for students as they pursue their academic and professional goals. With its rigorous academics, unique House system, and commitment to global education, The Lawrenceville School offers an exceptional educational experience.

8. The Hotchkiss School

The Hotchkiss School, located in Lakeville, Connecticut, is a co-educational boarding school known for its rigorous academics and its beautiful setting. Founded in 1891, Hotchkiss offers a challenging and rewarding educational experience. The school's curriculum is designed to prepare students for success in college and beyond, with a wide range of courses in the humanities, sciences, and arts. Hotchkiss's faculty are dedicated and experienced educators who are passionate about their subjects and committed to fostering a supportive learning environment. Hotchkiss emphasizes a well-rounded education. The school encourages students to participate in extracurricular activities, such as sports, arts, and community service. These activities provide students with opportunities to explore their interests, develop their talents, and contribute to the school community. Hotchkiss's commitment to sustainability is also noteworthy. The school has implemented a number of initiatives to reduce its environmental impact, and it encourages students to be environmentally conscious. Hotchkiss's campus is beautiful and well-equipped, with state-of-the-art facilities, including a science center, a performing arts center, and a library. The school also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, clubs, and arts programs. Hotchkiss's graduates go on to attend top colleges and universities, and the school's alumni network is a valuable resource for students as they pursue their academic and professional goals. With its rigorous academics, beautiful setting, and commitment to sustainability, The Hotchkiss School offers an exceptional educational experience.

9. Cate School

Perched on a mesa overlooking the Pacific Ocean in Carpinteria, California, Cate School offers a unique and inspiring learning environment. This co-educational boarding school is known for its strong academics, close-knit community, and stunning location. Founded in 1910, Cate provides a challenging and rewarding educational experience. The school's curriculum is designed to prepare students for success in college and beyond, with a wide range of courses in the humanities, sciences, and arts. Cate's faculty are dedicated and experienced educators who are passionate about their subjects and committed to fostering a supportive learning environment. What sets Cate apart is its small size and its emphasis on community. The school has a student-to-faculty ratio of just 6:1, which allows for close relationships between students and teachers. Cate also offers a variety of outdoor programs, such as hiking, camping, and surfing, which take advantage of its beautiful location. Cate's commitment to sustainability is also noteworthy. The school has implemented a number of initiatives to reduce its environmental impact, and it encourages students to be environmentally conscious. Cate's campus is beautiful and well-equipped, with state-of-the-art facilities, including a science center, a performing arts center, and a library. The school also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, clubs, and arts programs. Cate's graduates go on to attend top colleges and universities, and the school's alumni network is a valuable resource for students as they pursue their academic and professional goals. With its rigorous academics, close-knit community, and stunning location, Cate School offers an exceptional educational experience.

10. Middlesex School

Rounding out our list is Middlesex School, located in Concord, Massachusetts. This co-educational boarding school is known for its strong academic program and its emphasis on the arts. Founded in 1901, Middlesex offers a challenging and rewarding educational experience. The school's curriculum is designed to prepare students for success in college and beyond, with a wide range of courses in the humanities, sciences, and arts. Middlesex's faculty are dedicated and experienced educators who are passionate about their subjects and committed to fostering a supportive learning environment. Middlesex stands out for its commitment to the arts. The school has a strong arts program, with courses in music, theater, and visual arts. Middlesex also offers a variety of opportunities for students to perform and exhibit their work. Middlesex's commitment to diversity and inclusion is also noteworthy. The school strives to create a welcoming and inclusive community where all students feel valued and respected. Middlesex's graduates go on to attend top colleges and universities, and the school's alumni network is a valuable resource for students as they pursue their academic and professional goals. With its rigorous academics, emphasis on the arts, and commitment to diversity and inclusion, Middlesex School offers an exceptional educational experience.

Choosing the right secondary school is a big deal, guys! We hope this list has given you a good starting point for your search. Remember to visit the schools that interest you, talk to current students and faculty, and trust your gut. Good luck!