30 Best Public High Schools in Arkansas: Enrollment Opportunities

Arkansas offers numerous exceptional public high schools that provide quality education to students across the state. From academic achievements to extracurricular activities, these institutions shape the future of young minds through diverse learning opportunities.

Parents and students can explore enrollment options at these top-ranked schools through open enrollment policies, school choice programs, and magnet school applications.

The selection process varies by district and school, with some requiring specific academic criteria or residential requirements for admission.

Here are the top 30 public high schools in Arkansas. Enrollment opportunities abound!

1. Little Rock Central High School

Little Rock Central High School stands as a historic educational institution in Little Rock, Arkansas. The school opened its doors in 1927 and gained national recognition during the Civil Rights Movement of 1957.

Located at 1500 South Park Street, Central High serves students in grades 9-12. The school maintains a rigorous academic program with Advanced Placement courses, International Baccalaureate options, and specialized STEM programs.

Students can apply through school choice programs or by living within the designated attendance zone. The school accepts applications during specific enrollment periods, typically beginning in December for the following academic year.

Central High consistently ranks among Arkansas’s top-performing schools in academic achievement. The school offers diverse extracurricular activities, including award-winning debate teams, performing arts programs, and competitive athletics.

The campus features the original 1927 building, which earned National Historic Landmark status. Modern facilities complement the historic architecture, providing students access to updated technology and learning spaces.

2. Fayetteville High School

Fayetteville High School serves grades 9-12 in Fayetteville, Arkansas. Located at 994 West Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, this public school maintains high academic standards while offering diverse educational opportunities.

The school enrolls approximately 2,800 students and employs over 150 certified teachers. Students benefit from a comprehensive curriculum featuring Advanced Placement courses, honors programs, and career-focused electives.

FHS provides multiple pathways for admission. Residents within the Fayetteville Public School District can enroll directly, while out-of-district students may apply through school choice programs when spaces are available.

The campus features modern facilities including science labs, a performing arts center, and athletic complexes. Students have access to technology resources and specialized learning spaces that support both academic and extracurricular activities.

The school maintains strong academic performance with graduation rates consistently above 90%. FHS students regularly earn recognition for achievements in academics, arts, and athletics at state and national levels.

3. Bentonville High School

Bentonville High School stands as one of Arkansas’s premier public education institutions, serving grades 9-12 in the rapidly growing Bentonville community. The school maintains high academic standards with a diverse curriculum that includes Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate programs.

Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including modern science labs, a performing arts center, and advanced technology resources. The school’s STEM programs are particularly strong, offering specialized courses in engineering, computer science, and robotics.

The school excels in athletics and extracurricular activities, with numerous state championships across various sports. Its competitive academic teams consistently perform well in regional and national competitions.

Enrollment is open to students residing within the Bentonville School District boundaries. The school maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of approximately 16:1, allowing for personalized attention while serving its large student population.

4. Rogers High School

Rogers High School stands as a prominent educational institution in Rogers, Arkansas, serving grades 9-12. The school maintains high academic standards and accepts students through open enrollment within its district boundaries.

The campus features modern facilities, including well-equipped science labs, a performing arts center, and athletic facilities. Students have access to Advanced Placement courses, career and technical education programs, and numerous extracurricular activities.

Rogers High School consistently achieves above-average test scores and graduation rates. The school serves approximately 2,200 students and maintains a student-to-teacher ratio that supports individualized attention.

The school’s Mountie athletic teams compete in the 6A West Conference, participating in various sports including football, basketball, soccer, and track. Students can join multiple clubs and organizations ranging from academic competitions to community service groups.

5. Springdale High School

Springdale High School serves grades 9-12 in the Springdale School District. Located in Northwest Arkansas, it enrolls approximately 2,200 students and maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 14:1.

The school offers Advanced Placement courses across multiple subjects, including mathematics, sciences, and humanities. Students can participate in Pre-AP classes starting in ninth grade to prepare for advanced coursework.

The campus features modern facilities, including science laboratories, computer labs, and a performing arts center. Sports facilities include a gymnasium, football field, and track complex.

Springdale High School operates on an open enrollment policy for students within the district boundaries. Transfer students from other districts may apply through the school district office, subject to space availability.

The school provides career and technical education programs in areas like business, engineering, and healthcare. These programs give students practical skills and industry certifications before graduation.

6. Cabot High School

Cabot High School stands as a prominent educational institution in Cabot, Arkansas, serving students in grades 9-12. The school maintains high academic standards with a comprehensive curriculum that includes Advanced Placement and honors courses.

Students at Cabot High School participate in numerous extracurricular activities, from competitive sports teams to academic clubs and performing arts programs. The school’s facilities include modern science labs, a well-equipped library, and state-of-the-art technology resources.

The school emphasizes college preparation, offering dedicated counseling services and career guidance programs. Its graduation rate consistently exceeds the state average, with many graduates continuing to top colleges and universities.

Teachers at Cabot High School hold advanced degrees and certifications in their subject areas. The school’s student-to-teacher ratio promotes individualized attention and effective learning environments.

The campus features recently renovated athletic facilities, including a football stadium and gymnasium that serve both school and community events.

7. Har-Ber High School

Har-Ber High School, located in Springdale, Arkansas, serves grades 9-12 and maintains a reputation for academic excellence. The school opened its doors in 2005 and has grown into one of the largest high schools in the state.

Students at Har-Ber benefit from a comprehensive curriculum that includes Advanced Placement courses, career and technical education programs, and various STEM initiatives. The school offers specialized academies in areas such as business, engineering, and medical professions.

The campus features modern facilities including state-of-the-art science labs, a performing arts center, and advanced technology classrooms. Athletic facilities include multiple gymnasiums and well-maintained sports fields.

Har-Ber High School maintains strong partnerships with local businesses and colleges, providing students with internship opportunities and dual enrollment options. The school’s graduation rate consistently exceeds state averages, with many graduates continuing to top universities.

8. Jonesboro High School

Jonesboro High School serves grades 10-12 in Jonesboro, Arkansas, with approximately 1,300 students enrolled. The school maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 14:1, supporting personalized attention in the classroom.

Students can choose from 15 Advanced Placement courses and numerous pre-AP options. The school offers specialized programs in computer science, engineering, and biomedical sciences through Project Lead The Way.

The school’s academic performance consistently exceeds state averages, with a graduation rate of 89%. Athletic programs include state-competitive teams in football, basketball, baseball, and track.

Jonesboro High School accepts students who live within the Jonesboro Public Schools district boundaries. The school also considers limited school choice applications from outside the district, subject to available space and state guidelines.

The campus features modern science labs, a performing arts center, and recently renovated athletic facilities. Students have access to dual enrollment opportunities through Arkansas State University.

9. North Little Rock High School

North Little Rock High School serves students in grades 9-12 as part of the North Little Rock School District. Located at 101 West 22nd Street, the school maintains an enrollment of approximately 2,400 students.

The school offers Advanced Placement courses, career and technical education programs, and various extracurricular activities. Students can participate in sports, band, choir, theater, and numerous academic clubs.

The campus features modern facilities including science labs, computer centers, and athletic complexes. The school operates on a block schedule system, giving students extended time in each class period.

North Little Rock High School maintains partnerships with local colleges and businesses to provide dual enrollment opportunities and internship programs. The school’s graduation rate consistently exceeds the state average.

The admission process is open to students residing within the North Little Rock School District boundaries. Out-of-district students may apply through the school choice program when space permits.

10. Conway High School

Conway High School serves grades 10-12 in Conway, Arkansas. The school maintains high academic standards with a graduation rate of 92% and offers advanced placement courses across multiple subjects.

The campus features modern facilities including well-equipped science labs, a performing arts center, and athletic facilities. Students can participate in over 30 different clubs and organizations ranging from robotics to debate teams.

Conway High School has earned recognition for its STEM programs and career-focused pathways in business, healthcare, and technology. The school partners with local colleges to provide concurrent credit opportunities.

Enrollment is open to students living within the Conway Public School District boundaries. The school serves approximately 2,100 students and maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 14:1.

11. Russellville High School

Russellville High School serves grades 9-12 in the Russellville School District. Located in Pope County, the school maintains a student population of approximately 1,200 students.

The school offers Advanced Placement courses and concurrent credit opportunities through Arkansas Tech University. Students can earn college credits while completing their high school requirements.

The campus features modern facilities including science labs, computer centers, and a performing arts complex. Athletic programs include football, basketball, baseball, soccer, and track.

Russellville High School maintains a strong academic focus with a graduation rate above 90%. The school employs certified teachers who participate in ongoing professional development.

Students can participate in various extracurricular activities including band, choir, robotics club, and academic competition teams. The school’s Career and Technical Education program provides hands-on training in multiple career pathways.

12. Southside High School

Southside High School, located in Fort Smith, serves grades 10-12 with approximately 1,500 students. The school maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 16:1, promoting individualized attention and academic support.

Students at Southside can choose from 15 Advanced Placement courses, including Biology, Calculus, and English Literature. The school’s AP pass rate stands at 62%, reflecting strong academic performance.

The campus features modern facilities including a STEM lab, performing arts center, and recently renovated athletic complex. Southside’s athletics program participates in the 7A Central Conference, offering students opportunities in 12 different sports.

Admission to Southside High School is based on residential zoning within the Fort Smith School District. Families outside the zone can apply for transfer through the district’s school choice program.

The school’s graduation rate of 89% exceeds the state average, with 76% of graduates pursuing post-secondary education.

13. Searcy High School

Located in Searcy, Arkansas, Searcy High School serves grades 9-12 in the Searcy School District. The school maintains an enrollment of approximately 1,200 students with a student-to-teacher ratio of 14:1.

The school offers Advanced Placement courses across multiple subjects, including calculus, biology, literature, and U.S. history. Students can participate in concurrent credit programs through partnerships with local colleges.

Searcy High School’s athletic programs compete in Arkansas’s 5A classification. The school fields teams in football, basketball, baseball, soccer, and track and field.

The campus features modern facilities including science labs, a performing arts center, and a media center. Students have access to technology resources and Chromebooks for academic work.

Extracurricular activities include band, choir, drama club, student council, and various academic clubs. The school maintains strong community partnerships that provide internship and mentorship opportunities for students.

14. Bryant High School

Bryant High School serves grades 9-12 in Bryant, Arkansas, with approximately 2,100 students enrolled. The school maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 16:1, promoting personalized attention in the classroom.

The school offers 15 Advanced Placement courses and a comprehensive curriculum that includes STEM programs, fine arts, and career technical education. Students can participate in dual enrollment courses through partnerships with local colleges.

Bryant High School boasts strong athletic programs, with state championships in multiple sports. The school fields competitive teams in football, basketball, baseball, soccer, and track.

The campus features modern facilities, including science laboratories, a performing arts center, and recently renovated athletic facilities. The school provides students with access to current technology and digital learning resources.

Students can join more than 30 clubs and organizations, ranging from academic competition teams to service-oriented groups. The school maintains high academic standards, with graduates regularly earning acceptance to top universities.

15. Mountain Home High School

Mountain Home High School serves grades 9-12 in Mountain Home, Arkansas. The school maintains an enrollment of approximately 900 students with a student-to-teacher ratio of 14:1.

Students can choose from a variety of Advanced Placement courses, including Biology, Calculus, English Literature, and U.S. History. The school also offers career and technical education programs in areas like business, agriculture, and healthcare.

The campus features modern facilities including science labs, a media center, and athletic facilities. Mountain Home’s graduation rate consistently exceeds 90%, with many graduates continuing to college.

Academic teams and clubs provide additional learning opportunities, from Quiz Bowl to Future Business Leaders of America. The school’s Bomber athletic teams compete in the 5A West Conference across multiple sports.

Mountain Home High School accepts transfer students from surrounding districts through school choice programs, subject to space availability and state guidelines.

16. Benton High School

Benton High School serves grades 10-12 in Benton, Arkansas, with an enrollment of approximately 1,200 students. The school maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 14:1, fostering personalized attention and academic growth.

The school offers Advanced Placement courses across multiple subjects, including mathematics, science, English, and social studies. Students can participate in concurrent credit programs through partnerships with local colleges.

Benton High School boasts strong athletic programs and numerous extracurricular activities. The school fields competitive teams in football, basketball, baseball, and track, while also supporting academic clubs and organizations.

The campus features modern facilities, including updated science laboratories, a performing arts center, and athletic complexes. Teachers utilize technology-enhanced classrooms to deliver engaging instruction.

Students interested in attending Benton High School must reside within the Benton School District boundaries. The school accepts transfer applications based on space availability and district policies.

17. Van Buren High School

Van Buren High School serves grades 9-12 in Van Buren, Arkansas. Located at 2001 Pointer Trail, the school enrolls approximately 1,400 students and maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 14:1.

The school offers Advanced Placement courses and concurrent credit opportunities through partnerships with local colleges. Students can participate in various academic programs, including STEM initiatives and career technical education pathways.

Van Buren High School features modern facilities with technology-equipped classrooms and specialized learning spaces. The campus includes science labs, a media center, and athletic facilities for its comprehensive sports programs.

The school provides multiple extracurricular activities, from academic clubs to performing arts groups. Students can join organizations such as National Honor Society, Beta Club, and various competitive teams.

Enrollment at Van Buren High School is primarily based on residential zoning within the Van Buren School District. Transfer students may apply through the district’s school choice program, subject to space availability and district policies.

18. El Dorado High School

El Dorado High School serves grades 9-12 in El Dorado, Arkansas. Located at 501 West Timberlane Drive, the school enrolls approximately 1,300 students.

The school operates on a traditional calendar with block scheduling. It offers Advanced Placement courses, career and technical education programs, and various electives to support diverse student interests.

El Dorado High School participates in the El Dorado Promise scholarship program, which provides graduates with college scholarship opportunities. The program covers tuition and fees at any accredited two or four-year college in the United States.

The school’s athletic teams compete in the 5A South Conference. Students can join various sports programs including football, basketball, baseball, softball, and track.

The campus features modern facilities, including science labs, a media center, and a performing arts auditorium. El Dorado High School maintains partnerships with South Arkansas Community College for dual enrollment opportunities.

19. Bentonville West High School

Located in Centerton, Arkansas, Bentonville West High School opened its doors in 2016 as part of the Bentonville School District. The school serves students in grades 9-12 from Centerton and surrounding areas.

The school maintains high academic standards with a comprehensive curriculum that includes Advanced Placement courses, honors classes, and career-focused programs. Students can choose from various electives in arts, technology, and career technical education.

Bentonville West features modern facilities including state-of-the-art science labs, a performing arts center, and athletic facilities. The school’s campus spans 80 acres and accommodates approximately 2,000 students.

The school’s Wolverines compete in the 7A West Conference of the Arkansas Activities Association, participating in multiple sports programs. Students can join numerous clubs and organizations ranging from robotics to student government.

Enrollment is open to students living within the Bentonville School District boundaries. The school accepts transfer students based on space availability and district policies.

20. West Memphis High School

West Memphis High School serves students in grades 10-12 in West Memphis, Arkansas. The school maintains an enrollment of approximately 1,100 students and operates within the West Memphis School District.

The campus features modern facilities including science labs, computer centers, and a performing arts auditorium. Students can participate in Advanced Placement courses across multiple subjects to earn college credit.

The school offers diverse extracurricular activities including band, choir, athletics, and academic clubs. The Blue Devils athletic teams compete in the 6A classification of the Arkansas Activities Association.

West Memphis High School implements a STEM-focused curriculum to prepare students for college and careers in technical fields. The school partners with local businesses to provide internship opportunities and real-world experience.

21. Hot Springs High School

Hot Springs High School serves grades 9-12 in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Located in Garland County, it operates within the Hot Springs School District and maintains an enrollment of approximately 900 students.

The school offers Advanced Placement courses and concurrent credit opportunities through National Park College. Students can participate in various academic programs including STEM initiatives and career-focused pathways.

Athletics play a significant role at Hot Springs High School, with the Trojans competing in the 5A classification. The school fields teams in football, basketball, baseball, track, and other sports.

The campus features modern facilities including science labs, a media center, and a performing arts auditorium. Hot Springs High School maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 14:1, allowing for personalized attention in the classroom.

The school accepts transfer students through school choice programs, subject to space availability and district policies. Applications typically open in December for the following academic year.

22. Siloam Springs High School

Siloam Springs High School serves grades 9-12 in the Siloam Springs School District. Located in northwest Arkansas, the school maintains a student population of approximately 1,300 students.

The school offers Advanced Placement courses and concurrent college credit opportunities through partnerships with local universities. Students can participate in various academic programs, including STEM initiatives and career-focused pathways.

Athletics play a significant role at Siloam Springs High School, with teams competing in the 5A West Conference. The school fields competitive teams in football, basketball, soccer, and track.

The campus features modern facilities, including updated science labs, a performing arts center, and athletic facilities. Students have access to technology resources and specialized learning spaces designed to support their academic growth.

Extracurricular activities include band, choir, theater, robotics club, and numerous student organizations. These programs provide students with opportunities to develop leadership skills and explore their interests.

23. Paragould High School

Paragould High School serves grades 9-12 in Paragould, Arkansas, with an enrollment of approximately 900 students. The school maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 14:1, enabling personalized attention and support.

The school offers Advanced Placement courses and concurrent credit opportunities through Arkansas State University. Students can earn college credits while completing their high school education.

The campus features modern facilities, including updated science labs, a performing arts center, and athletic facilities. Sports teams compete in the 5A East Conference of the Arkansas Activities Association.

College and career readiness programs help prepare students for their future paths. The school partners with local businesses to provide internship opportunities and practical work experience.

Academic achievement at Paragould High School consistently exceeds state averages in mathematics and literacy. The graduation rate stands above 90%, reflecting strong student success.

24. Greenwood High School

Greenwood High School serves grades 10-12 in the Greenwood School District, located in Sebastian County, Arkansas. The school maintains high academic standards with a student population of approximately 900 students.

Students at Greenwood High School can choose from numerous Advanced Placement courses and participate in a variety of extracurricular activities. The school offers specialized programs in areas like business, agriculture, and computer science.

The school’s athletic programs consistently perform well in state competitions, particularly in football and volleyball. Their facilities include modern science labs, a performing arts center, and updated technology in classrooms.

Greenwood High School maintains a graduation rate above 90% and sends a significant portion of its graduates to four-year colleges. The school employs experienced teachers, with many holding advanced degrees in their subject areas.

Teacher-to-student ratios at Greenwood remain favorable, allowing for personalized attention and support. The school’s commitment to academic excellence is reflected in its above-average standardized test scores and college readiness metrics.

25. Texarkana Arkansas High School

Located in Texarkana, Arkansas, Texarkana Arkansas High School serves grades 9-12 with approximately 1,200 students. The school operates within the Texarkana Arkansas School District.

Students can access various Advanced Placement courses, including options in mathematics, science, and humanities. The school maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 14:1, enabling more personalized attention in classrooms.

The campus features modern facilities, including updated science laboratories, a performing arts center, and athletic facilities. Sports programs include football, basketball, baseball, and track.

Career and technical education pathways provide students with hands-on experience in fields like business, healthcare, and engineering. The school partners with local colleges to offer concurrent credit opportunities.

Extracurricular activities range from academic clubs to fine arts programs. The school’s debate team and band program have earned regional recognition for their achievements.

26. Lake Hamilton High School

Lake Hamilton High School serves grades 9-12 in Pearcy, Arkansas. The school educates approximately 1,300 students and maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 14:1.

The school offers Advanced Placement courses and concurrent credit opportunities through National Park College. Students can participate in various programs including business education, family consumer science, and agricultural studies.

Lake Hamilton provides multiple athletic programs, including football, basketball, baseball, and track. The school’s arts department features band, choir, and theater productions.

The campus includes modern facilities with a performing arts center, career and technical education building, and athletic complex. Lake Hamilton High School consistently achieves above-average graduation rates compared to the state average.

Students benefit from college preparation resources and career counseling services. The school implements technology integration across its curriculum, with students having access to computer labs and digital learning tools.

27. Magnolia High School

Magnolia High School serves grades 9-12 in Magnolia, Arkansas, with approximately 650 students enrolled. The school maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 14:1, allowing for personalized attention in the classroom.

The school offers Advanced Placement courses in subjects like Biology, Calculus, English Literature, and U.S. History. Students can also participate in concurrent credit programs through Southern Arkansas University.

Magnolia High School fields competitive teams in football, basketball, baseball, and track. The school’s band program has earned multiple regional awards for excellence in performance.

The campus features modern science laboratories, a media center, and updated computer facilities. Career and technical education programs include business, agriculture, and family consumer sciences.

Students can join various clubs and organizations, including Beta Club, Future Business Leaders of America, and Student Council. The school’s graduation rate exceeds the state average at 89%.

28. Blytheville High School

Blytheville High School serves students in grades 9-12 in Blytheville, Arkansas. The school operates within the Blytheville School District and maintains an enrollment of approximately 600 students.

The campus features modern facilities including science labs, a media center, and athletic facilities. Students have access to Advanced Placement courses and career-focused programs in areas like business and technology.

The school offers multiple extracurricular activities including band, choir, athletics, and academic clubs. Sports teams compete in the 4A classification of the Arkansas Activities Association.

Teachers at Blytheville High School emphasize college and career readiness through rigorous academics and hands-on learning experiences. The school maintains partnerships with local businesses to provide internship opportunities for students.

Small class sizes allow for personalized attention and support from teachers. The school provides tutoring programs and academic support services to help students succeed.

29. Sheridan High School

Located in Grant County, Sheridan High School serves students in grades 9-12 as part of the Sheridan School District. The school maintains a student population of approximately 1,000 students.

The academic program at Sheridan High School features Advanced Placement courses and career-focused electives. Students can participate in various STEM programs and vocational training opportunities.

The school’s athletic teams compete in the 6A classification of the Arkansas Activities Association. Sports offerings include football, basketball, baseball, softball, and track.

Extracurricular activities at Sheridan High School encompass band, choir, drama club, and numerous student organizations. The school’s facilities include modern science labs, a media center, and athletic facilities.

Students interested in attending Sheridan High School must reside within the district boundaries. The school accepts transfer applications based on space availability and district policies.

30. Forrest City High School

Forrest City High School serves students in grades 9-12 in Forrest City, Arkansas. Located at 467 Victoria Street, the school maintains an enrollment of approximately 600 students.

The school offers Advanced Placement courses in subjects like English, Mathematics, and Science. Students can participate in various extracurricular activities including band, choir, athletics, and academic clubs.

Forrest City High School partners with East Arkansas Community College to provide concurrent credit opportunities for qualifying students. These courses allow students to earn both high school and college credits simultaneously.

The school’s curriculum emphasizes college and career readiness through its Career and Technical Education programs. Students can explore pathways in business, agriculture, and family consumer sciences.

Athletic programs include football, basketball, track, and baseball. The Forrest City Mustangs compete in the 5A classification of the Arkansas Activities Association.

Enrollment Process and Requirements

Arkansas public high schools maintain specific enrollment guidelines and timelines to ensure fair access to educational opportunities. Each school follows state-mandated policies while implementing additional requirements based on their programs and capacity.

Eligibility Criteria

Students must reside within the school district’s boundaries to qualify for enrollment. Proof of residency typically includes utility bills, lease agreements, or property tax statements.

Age requirements specify that students should be under 21 years old at the time of enrollment. Most schools accept students between 14 and 18 years of age for grades 9-12.

Required documentation includes:

• Birth certificate
• Immunization records
• Previous school transcripts
• Social Security card
• Parent/guardian photo ID

Transfer students need to provide additional documentation showing their academic standing and disciplinary history from their previous school.

Application Deadlines

Most Arkansas public high schools start accepting applications for the following academic year in January. The standard enrollment period runs from January through March.

Priority enrollment dates for current district students typically fall between January 15-31. New student applications are processed from February 1-28.

Schools with specialized programs often set earlier deadlines:

• Magnet Programs: November-December
• Advanced Placement Academies: December-January
• Career Technical Programs: January-February

Late enrollment requests are considered based on available space and reviewed on a case-by-case basis after the standard enrollment period ends.

Educational Opportunities and Programs

Arkansas’s top public high schools offer diverse academic paths and engaging activities that prepare students for college and future careers. The schools maintain high academic standards while fostering student involvement in various extracurricular pursuits.

Advanced Placement and Honors Classes

Many Arkansas public high schools provide extensive AP course selections, with some offering 15+ different subjects. Popular choices include AP Calculus, AP Biology, and AP English Literature.

Students can earn college credits through successful completion of AP exams, potentially saving thousands in future tuition costs. The average AP pass rate at these schools exceeds 80%.

Pre-AP and honors courses create stepping stones for students transitioning into advanced coursework. These classes cover core subjects like mathematics, science, and literature at an accelerated pace.

Extracurricular Activities and Clubs

Top Arkansas high schools support 30-40 different student organizations and clubs on average. Popular options include National Honor Society, Student Council, and STEM clubs.

Sports teams compete in various divisions of the Arkansas Activities Association. Most schools field teams in football, basketball, baseball, soccer, and track.

Fine arts programs encompass band, choir, theater, and visual arts. Many schools participate in state-level competitions and festivals.

Academic competition teams like Quiz Bowl, Science Olympiad, and Speech & Debate regularly achieve state and national recognition.

Career-focused clubs such as Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) and Skills USA provide practical experience and networking opportunities.

Comparative Analysis of High School Performance

Arkansas public high schools demonstrate varying levels of academic achievement across key performance metrics. These metrics reveal significant differences between schools in different regions and demographics.

Standardized Test Scores

Top-performing Arkansas public high schools consistently score 15-20% above the state average on standardized tests. Schools like Haas Hall Academy and Bentonville High School lead with average ACT scores of 28-30.

Rural schools face more challenges, with average ACT scores ranging from 19-22. The gap between urban and rural schools has decreased by 3% since 2020.

Math proficiency rates show notable disparities. The highest-performing schools maintain 85-90% proficiency rates, while mid-tier schools average 65-70%.

Graduation Rates

Arkansas’s top public high schools maintain graduation rates between 95-98%. Schools like Little Rock Central and Rogers High School consistently graduate more than 96% of their students.

The state average graduation rate stands at 88%, with significant variations between regions. Urban schools typically achieve 90-95% graduation rates.

Schools implementing targeted intervention programs have improved their graduation rates by 5-7% over the past three years. These programs focus on at-risk students and provide additional academic support.

94% of graduates from the top-performing schools pursue post-secondary education, compared to the state average of 78%.