The 30 Best High Schools in Long Island: Top-Ranked Academic Institutions
Long Island is home to numerous exceptional educational institutions that provide students with outstanding academic opportunities. From Nassau to Suffolk County, these schools consistently demonstrate excellence through rigorous curricula, dedicated faculty, and impressive college placement rates.
The following list of the 30 best high schools in Long Island was compiled based on comprehensive metrics including academic performance, graduation rates, college readiness, and extracurricular offerings.
Parents and students searching for top-tier education options will find valuable insights in this carefully researched ranking. Each selected school offers unique strengths and specialized programs that cater to diverse student needs and interests.
These institutions have established reputations for preparing young people not only for college success but for becoming well-rounded individuals ready to contribute to society.
Here are the 30 best high schools in Long Island:
1. Jericho High School
Jericho High School consistently ranks among the top educational institutions on Long Island. Located in Nassau County, this public school serves approximately 1,100 students in grades 9-12.
The school boasts impressive academic achievements with a 99% graduation rate and over 95% of students advancing to four-year colleges. Jericho offers more than 25 Advanced Placement courses, allowing students to challenge themselves with college-level material.
Beyond academics, Jericho High School excels in extracurricular activities. Their science research program has produced numerous Regeneron Science Talent Search semifinalists and finalists.
The school maintains exceptional facilities including state-of-the-art science labs, a performing arts center, and modern athletic complexes. Students benefit from a low student-to-teacher ratio of approximately 13:1, ensuring personalized attention.
Jericho High School has earned multiple National Blue Ribbon School awards, reflecting its commitment to educational excellence.
2. Great Neck South High School
Great Neck South High School stands as a premier educational institution on Long Island, consistently ranking among the top schools nationally. Located in Great Neck, this school serves approximately 1,200 students in grades 9-12 and maintains an impressive student-to-teacher ratio of 12:1.
The school offers a robust academic program with over 20 Advanced Placement courses and numerous honors options. Its STEM program is particularly strong, with students regularly participating in prestigious competitions like the International Science and Engineering Fair.
Great Neck South boasts exceptional college placement rates, with over 95% of graduates continuing to four-year institutions. Many alumni attend Ivy League and other highly selective universities each year.
The school’s extracurricular offerings include championship-winning debate teams, music programs, and athletic teams. Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities including science labs, a performing arts center, and modern athletic facilities.
3. Half Hollow Hills High School West
Half Hollow Hills High School West, located in Dix Hills, has established itself as one of Long Island’s premier educational institutions. The school serves approximately 1,300 students in grades 9-12 and maintains an impressive student-to-teacher ratio of 13:1.
The school offers a robust Advanced Placement program with over 20 AP courses available to students. Their AP participation rate exceeds 65%, with a pass rate consistently above the national average.
Half Hollow Hills West boasts strong academic performance, with SAT scores averaging 100 points above the state average. The school’s graduation rate stands at an impressive 98%, with over 95% of graduates continuing to higher education.
Beyond academics, the school excels in athletics and arts. Their competitive sports teams have secured numerous county championships, while their music and theater programs have received regional recognition.
4. Garden City High School
Garden City High School consistently ranks among the top educational institutions in Long Island. Located in the affluent community of Garden City, this school serves approximately 1,200 students in grades 9-12.
The school boasts impressive academic credentials with a 99% graduation rate and over 95% of graduates continuing to four-year colleges. Students have access to 23 Advanced Placement courses and numerous honors programs.
Beyond academics, Garden City High School offers a robust athletic program with multiple state championships in lacrosse, football, and track. The school’s facilities include modern science labs, a well-equipped performing arts center, and recently renovated athletic fields.
Garden City High School maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 13:1, allowing for personalized attention. Faculty members are highly qualified, with over 80% holding advanced degrees in their teaching fields.
5. Syosset Senior High School
Syosset Senior High School consistently ranks among Long Island’s elite educational institutions. Located in Nassau County, this public school serves approximately 2,000 students in grades 10-12.
The school boasts impressive academic statistics, with over 95% of graduates pursuing higher education. Its Advanced Placement program offers more than 25 courses, and the school regularly produces numerous National Merit Scholars.
Syosset’s STEM programs have earned particular recognition, with students frequently winning regional and national competitions. The school maintains state-of-the-art science labs and technology resources.
Beyond academics, Syosset excels in extracurricular activities. Its award-winning music department, competitive athletics teams, and diverse clubs provide well-rounded development opportunities.
The school’s dedicated faculty includes many teachers with advanced degrees and professional accomplishments. Student support services include comprehensive college counseling and academic intervention programs.
6. Huntington High School
Huntington High School stands as a beacon of academic excellence on Long Island’s North Shore. With approximately 1,500 students, this public school offers a diverse curriculum that caters to various learning styles and interests.
The school boasts impressive Advanced Placement participation rates, with over 20 AP courses available to students. Their science research program has produced numerous Regeneron Science Talent Search semifinalists in recent years.
Athletics play a significant role in Huntington’s culture, with competitive teams in football, lacrosse, and track and field. The Blue Devils consistently compete at high levels in Suffolk County championships.
Huntington’s arts programs deserve special recognition for their quality. The music department has earned NYSSMA gold ratings, while the theater program produces professional-caliber performances each season.
The school maintains a student-teacher ratio of approximately 13:1, allowing for personalized attention and mentoring opportunities.
7. East Islip High School
East Islip High School stands as a cornerstone of academic excellence in Suffolk County. With approximately 1,100 students enrolled, this institution maintains an impressive student-to-teacher ratio of 13:1, fostering personalized learning experiences.
The school offers a robust Advanced Placement program with 15 courses spanning various disciplines. Students consistently achieve above-average AP exam scores, with a pass rate of 78% in the 2023-2024 academic year.
East Islip’s commitment to STEM education is evident through its specialized laboratories and technology integration. The school’s Science Olympiad team has qualified for state competitions three years running.
Athletic programs at East Islip are equally strong, with their football and lacrosse teams securing county championships in recent seasons. The school’s music department has earned recognition with gold ratings at NYSSMA evaluations.
East Islip graduates demonstrate college readiness, with 89% of the class of 2024 continuing to higher education.
8. Connetquot High School
Connetquot High School in Bohemia serves over 1,800 students in grades 9-12. The school boasts strong academic programs with a variety of Advanced Placement courses and honors options.
Students at Connetquot consistently perform well on standardized tests, with many scholars earning recognition in state and national competitions. The school maintains a graduation rate above the state average.
Athletic programs are a point of pride for the Thunderbirds, with teams regularly competing for Suffolk County championships. The school offers more than 30 varsity sports across fall, winter, and spring seasons.
Connetquot’s music and arts departments have received accolades for their performances and exhibitions. The school features modern facilities, including recently renovated science labs, a well-equipped library, and a performing arts center.
The school emphasizes college readiness with dedicated counseling services and career exploration opportunities for all students.
9. Smithtown East High School
Smithtown East High School stands as a distinguished educational institution on Long Island, serving approximately 1,800 students in grades 9-12. The school maintains an impressive academic reputation with a graduation rate consistently above 95%.
Students at Smithtown East benefit from a diverse curriculum featuring over 20 AP courses and numerous honors options. The school’s science and mathematics departments have received recognition for their excellence, with students regularly advancing to prestigious competitions.
The campus boasts modern facilities including recently renovated science laboratories, a performing arts center, and comprehensive athletic facilities. Extracurricular activities thrive with more than 40 clubs and 25 varsity sports teams.
Faculty members at Smithtown East are highly qualified, with over 80% holding advanced degrees. The school maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of approximately 14:1, allowing for personalized instruction and mentorship opportunities.
10. Mineola High School
Mineola High School serves students in grades 8-12 in the Mineola Union Free School District. The school maintains a solid academic reputation with a graduation rate consistently above the state average.
Students at Mineola benefit from a diverse curriculum that includes Advanced Placement courses, honors programs, and career-oriented electives. The school’s STEM initiatives have gained recognition for providing students with hands-on experience in science and technology fields.
Extracurricular activities thrive at Mineola, with competitive athletic teams and award-winning music and arts programs. The school’s “Mustang” spirit is evident in strong community participation at school events.
Mineola High School emphasizes college readiness while supporting students of varying academic abilities. The school’s commitment to technology integration enhances the learning experience, with classrooms equipped with modern educational tools.
11. Schreiber High School
Schreiber High School stands as a beacon of academic excellence on Long Island’s North Shore. The school serves approximately 1,600 students in grades 9-12 and has maintained a strong reputation for its rigorous curriculum.
Students in Port Washington benefit from a diverse array of AP and honors courses, with particularly strong programs in science and mathematics. The school’s average SAT scores consistently rank above both state and national averages.
Beyond academics, Schreiber offers extensive extracurricular activities including award-winning music and theater programs. Their athletic teams, known as the Vikings, compete successfully in Nassau County conferences.
The school boasts modern facilities including recently renovated science labs and a state-of-the-art media center. Port Washington maintains strong community partnerships, providing students with internship and service-learning opportunities.
The dedicated faculty includes numerous teachers with advanced degrees who frequently receive recognition for innovative teaching methods.
12. Bellmore-Merrick Central High School
Bellmore-Merrick Central High School stands as a top educational institution on Long Island with consistently impressive academic achievements. The school maintains a strong reputation for its comprehensive curriculum and dedicated teaching staff.
Students at Bellmore-Merrick excel in Advanced Placement courses, with participation rates well above the national average. The school’s college acceptance rate remains high, with many graduates attending prestigious universities across the country.
Beyond academics, Bellmore-Merrick offers extensive extracurricular opportunities including award-winning music programs and competitive sports teams. Their STEM initiatives have gained recognition for innovative approaches to science and technology education.
The school’s commitment to student development extends to community service programs that encourage civic responsibility. Parent involvement remains strong, creating a supportive environment for student success.
13. Manhasset Secondary School
Manhasset Secondary School consistently ranks among Long Island’s top educational institutions. Located in Nassau County, the school serves students in grades 7-12 with approximately 1,200 students enrolled.
The school boasts impressive academic achievements with high AP participation rates and excellent state test scores. Manhasset students regularly achieve recognition in national competitions for mathematics, science, and the arts.
Athletic programs at Manhasset Secondary School have earned numerous championships across various sports. The school particularly excels in lacrosse, tennis, and swimming at both regional and state levels.
The school maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of approximately 13:1, allowing for personalized attention. Manhasset’s curriculum emphasizes college preparation with numerous honors courses alongside diverse elective offerings.
The school’s facilities include modern science laboratories, a performing arts center, and recently renovated athletic fields.
14. Friends Academy
Friends Academy, established in 1876, is a prestigious independent Quaker school located in Locust Valley. The school serves students from early childhood through grade 12, offering a comprehensive college preparatory curriculum.
The academy prides itself on its rigorous academic programs combined with strong emphasis on Quaker values including integrity, simplicity, and peaceful resolution of conflicts. These principles are integrated throughout the educational experience.
Friends Academy maintains small class sizes with an impressive student-to-teacher ratio of 8:1, allowing for personalized attention and mentorship. The school’s facilities include state-of-the-art science labs, athletic fields, and arts spaces.
Students at Friends Academy consistently achieve high standardized test scores, with 99% of graduates continuing to four-year colleges. The school offers 17 AP courses and numerous honors options for academically motivated students.
The diverse extracurricular programs include championship-winning athletics, visual and performing arts, and community service opportunities.
15. Comsewogue High School
Located in Port Jefferson Station, Comsewogue High School serves approximately 1,100 students in grades 9-12. The school maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 13:1, allowing for personalized attention in the classroom.
Comsewogue offers a comprehensive academic program with 15 Advanced Placement courses and numerous honors options. Their science research program has produced several regional science competition winners in recent years.
The school boasts strong athletic programs, with their lacrosse and soccer teams regularly competing in county championships. Their performing arts department stages multiple productions annually, showcasing student talent in theater, music, and dance.
Comsewogue emphasizes college readiness with dedicated counseling resources and career exploration opportunities. The school maintains partnerships with local businesses that provide internship opportunities for students interested in various career paths.
Community service is integrated into student life, with numerous clubs dedicated to local volunteer initiatives.
16. Ward Melville High School
Ward Melville High School in East Setauket consistently ranks among Long Island’s academic powerhouses. The school serves approximately 1,700 students and maintains an impressive 13:1 student-teacher ratio, fostering personalized learning experiences.
Its science research program has earned national recognition, with students regularly qualifying as Regeneron Science Talent Search semifinalists. The school boasts exceptional AP course offerings, with a participation rate of over 80% among upperclassmen.
Ward Melville’s performing arts department is equally impressive, featuring award-winning music ensembles and theater productions. Athletic programs have captured numerous county and state championships across multiple sports.
The school’s college acceptance statistics are outstanding, with graduates attending prestigious universities including Ivy League institutions. Ward Melville’s commitment to academic excellence and well-rounded education makes it a standout institution in Suffolk County.
17. Roslyn High School
Roslyn High School stands as a premier educational institution in Nassau County, consistently ranking among the top schools in New York State. The school serves approximately 1,000 students in grades 9-12 from the Roslyn Union Free School District.
Academic excellence is a hallmark of Roslyn High School, with impressive student performance on Advanced Placement exams and standardized tests. The school offers over 25 AP courses and numerous honors programs that challenge students to reach their full potential.
The school’s Science Research Program has earned national recognition, with students regularly competing in prestigious competitions like Regeneron Science Talent Search. Roslyn also maintains strong programs in mathematics, humanities, and world languages.
Beyond academics, Roslyn High School boasts championship-winning athletic teams and award-winning programs in music, theater, and visual arts. The school’s modern facilities include well-equipped science labs, a performing arts center, and recently renovated athletic fields.
18. Patchogue-Medford High School
Patchogue-Medford High School serves approximately 2,500 students in grades 9-12 in Suffolk County. The school offers a comprehensive curriculum with numerous Advanced Placement courses and specialized programs.
Their STEM initiatives have gained recognition, with particularly strong offerings in mathematics and computer science. The school maintains a student-teacher ratio of about 15:1, allowing for more personalized attention.
Athletics play a significant role in school culture, with the Raiders competing in various sports at the county and state levels. The school also boasts active visual and performing arts departments that regularly stage productions and exhibitions.
Community engagement is emphasized through service learning opportunities and partnerships with local businesses. The diverse student body benefits from support services including counseling, college preparation, and career guidance programs.
19. Northport High School
Northport High School serves approximately 1,800 students in grades 9-12 in the Northport-East Northport School District. The school maintains a strong academic reputation with a graduation rate consistently above 95%.
Students at Northport benefit from a comprehensive curriculum that includes numerous Advanced Placement courses and specialized programs. The school’s Fine and Performing Arts department has earned particular recognition for its quality programs in music, theater, and visual arts.
Athletics are another highlight at Northport, with competitive teams in over 30 sports. The Tigers, as they’re known, have claimed multiple county and state championships across various sports in recent years.
The school boasts modern facilities including recently renovated science labs, a state-of-the-art library media center, and well-equipped athletic fields. Community involvement is strong, with active parent organizations supporting school initiatives.
20. Bayport-Blue Point High School
Bayport-Blue Point High School serves students in the charming south shore communities of Bayport and Blue Point. The school maintains a solid academic reputation with consistent performance on state assessments and college readiness metrics.
With approximately 700 students, this mid-sized high school offers personalized attention while still providing diverse course offerings. Students benefit from a selection of Advanced Placement classes and college preparatory curriculum designed to challenge learners of all abilities.
The school takes pride in its well-rounded approach to education, balancing academics with strong athletic programs and extracurricular activities. Their Phantoms sports teams compete effectively in Suffolk County leagues across multiple divisions.
Arts education thrives at Bayport-Blue Point, with award-winning music and theater programs. The school community fosters a supportive environment where students can explore their interests while developing critical thinking skills needed for future success.
21. Locust Valley High School
Locust Valley High School stands as a distinguished educational institution located in the charming hamlet of Locust Valley, New York. With approximately 650 students enrolled, the school maintains an advantageous student-to-teacher ratio that enables personalized attention for each student.
The school boasts an impressive academic program with numerous Advanced Placement offerings and specialized courses. Students consistently achieve high scores on standardized tests, with over 90% of graduates continuing to four-year colleges.
Beyond academics, Locust Valley High School excels in athletics and extracurricular activities. Their competitive sports teams have secured multiple championships in recent years, particularly in lacrosse and tennis.
The school’s well-rounded arts program includes award-winning music ensembles and a vibrant theater department. Community service initiatives also play an important role in student development, with many students participating in volunteer programs throughout Nassau County.
22. West Islip High School
West Islip High School stands as a respected educational institution in Suffolk County, Long Island. The school serves approximately 1,100 students in grades 9-12 and maintains a solid academic reputation in the region.
Students at West Islip benefit from a comprehensive curriculum that includes numerous Advanced Placement courses and college preparatory programs. The school’s average graduation rate consistently exceeds the state average, with most graduates pursuing higher education.
West Islip offers strong extracurricular activities, with notable success in athletics and performing arts. Their music program has received recognition at regional competitions, while their sports teams compete effectively in Suffolk County leagues.
The school features modern facilities, including well-equipped science laboratories, a renovated library media center, and athletic fields. Faculty members at West Islip demonstrate commitment to student achievement through personalized learning approaches and academic support programs.
23. Eastport-South Manor High School
Eastport-South Manor High School serves students in the combined Eastport-South Manor Central School District in Suffolk County. The school maintains a solid academic reputation with a graduation rate above the state average.
ESM High School offers a diverse curriculum featuring Advanced Placement courses, honors programs, and specialized electives. Their STEM programs have gained recognition for preparing students for college-level coursework in science and mathematics.
The school boasts strong athletic programs, with competitive teams in multiple sports divisions. Their performing arts department showcases student talent through seasonal concerts, theatrical productions, and art exhibitions.
Community involvement is emphasized at Eastport-South Manor, with students participating in various service initiatives throughout Long Island. The school’s dedicated faculty provides personalized attention through mentoring programs and academic support services.
Recent facility upgrades have enhanced the learning environment with modernized technology infrastructure and specialized learning spaces.
24. Hicksville High School
Hicksville High School serves approximately 1,600 students in grades 9-12 in Nassau County. The school maintains a solid academic reputation with a graduation rate consistently above 95%.
Students at Hicksville have access to a wide range of Advanced Placement courses, with particularly strong offerings in mathematics and science. The school’s STEM program has gained recognition for its innovative approach to integrating technology across the curriculum.
Extracurricular activities are abundant at Hicksville, with over 60 clubs and 30 varsity sports teams. Their music program regularly earns gold and silver ratings at state competitions.
The diverse student body represents over 40 different cultural backgrounds, creating a rich learning environment. The school emphasizes college readiness, with counselors providing comprehensive guidance throughout the application process.
Hicksville’s dedicated faculty includes numerous teachers with advanced degrees who bring real-world experience to their classrooms.
25. Sayville High School
Sayville High School has established itself as a noteworthy academic institution on Long Island. Located in Suffolk County, the school serves students in grades 9-12 within the Sayville Union Free School District.
The school maintains impressive academic standards with a graduation rate consistently above the state average. Sayville offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes numerous Advanced Placement courses and college-level classes through partnerships with local universities.
Students at Sayville benefit from strong arts programs, particularly in music and theater. The school’s marching band has received regional recognition for excellence.
Athletic programs at Sayville High School provide opportunities across multiple sports, with several teams achieving championship status in recent years. The school’s football program has a particularly strong tradition of success.
The school cultivates a supportive community environment and places emphasis on student involvement through various clubs and extracurricular activities.
26. Amityville Memorial High School
Amityville Memorial High School serves students in grades 9-12 in the Amityville Union Free School District. The school maintains a solid academic program with a variety of Advanced Placement courses and electives designed to prepare students for college and careers.
The school’s student-to-teacher ratio allows for more personalized attention, helping students achieve their academic goals. Amityville Memorial takes pride in its diverse student body and inclusive learning environment.
Athletic programs at Amityville Memorial High School have gained recognition, particularly in basketball. The Warriors have produced several championship teams and notable alumni who have gone on to play at collegiate and professional levels.
The school offers various extracurricular activities including music, drama, and student government. These programs help students develop leadership skills and explore interests beyond academics.
27. Long Beach High School
Located along the stunning South Shore of Long Island, Long Beach High School serves approximately 1,100 students in grades 9-12. The school boasts a diverse student body and maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 12:1, allowing for personalized educational experiences.
Long Beach High School offers a comprehensive curriculum with numerous Advanced Placement courses and specialized programs in the arts and sciences. Their International Baccalaureate program has gained recognition for its academic rigor and global perspective.
Athletics are a strong component of the school’s culture, with competitive teams in various sports including swimming, volleyball, and lacrosse. The Marine Science program takes advantage of the school’s unique coastal location, providing students with hands-on environmental education.
The school has consistently achieved solid academic rankings, with a graduation rate of approximately 95%. College acceptance rates remain high, with graduates attending prestigious universities across the country.
28. Plainedge High School
Plainedge High School, located in North Massapequa, serves students in grades 9-12 within the Plainedge School District. The school maintains a solid academic reputation with a curriculum that balances core subjects with elective offerings.
Plainedge boasts a student-to-teacher ratio that allows for personalized attention in the classroom. Their Advanced Placement program offers students opportunities to earn college credits while still in high school.
The school features well-maintained athletic facilities that support their various sports teams, known as the Red Devils. Their music and arts programs have received recognition for student achievements in regional competitions.
Plainedge High School emphasizes community involvement and character development alongside academic achievement. The school administration works to create a supportive environment where students can develop both intellectually and socially.
29. Miller Place High School
Miller Place High School rounds out our list at number thirty, serving students in grades 9-12 in Suffolk County. The school maintains a solid academic reputation with a graduation rate consistently above the state average.
Students at Miller Place benefit from a balanced curriculum that includes various AP courses and electives. The school’s student-to-teacher ratio allows for personalized attention while fostering independent learning.
Athletic programs are a point of pride for Miller Place, with competitive teams in multiple sports. Their Panthers teams have secured several county championships in recent years.
The school’s performing arts department offers opportunities in music, theater, and visual arts. Many students participate in annual productions and concerts that showcase their talents.
Community involvement is encouraged through service projects and local partnerships. Miller Place High School prepares students for future success through its focus on academic excellence and character development.
30. Commack High School
Commack High School, located in Commack, New York, is a distinguished public high school serving grades 9–12 within the Commack Union Free School District. Established in 1962, it has evolved into a hub of academic excellence and innovation.
The school offers a diverse curriculum, including Advanced Placement (AP) courses, International Baccalaureate (IB) programs, and college-level courses through partnerships with institutions like Stony Brook University and Adelphi University.
In 2021, Commack High School was honored as a National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education, recognizing its exemplary academic performance .
The school boasts impressive proficiency rates, with 99% in math and 97% in reading . Beyond academics, students engage in a wide array of extracurricular activities, including over 50 clubs, 21 sports teams, and various honor societies.
Academic Programs and Curricula
Long Island’s top high schools stand out for their exceptional academic offerings that prepare students for college and beyond. These institutions balance rigorous core requirements with diverse elective options and specialized pathways tailored to student interests and career aspirations.
Advanced Placement and Honors Offerings
The elite high schools across Long Island typically offer between 15-27 Advanced Placement courses, significantly above the national average of 8-10 AP classes. Jericho High School and Great Neck South lead with comprehensive AP programs covering all major disciplines, with participation rates exceeding 85% among upperclassmen.
Most top-ranked schools maintain dedicated honors tracks beginning in 9th grade, allowing students to accelerate in subjects where they excel. These accelerated pathways often feature smaller class sizes, averaging 18-22 students compared to 25-30 in standard courses.
Many schools have implemented weighted GPA systems that award additional points for honors (0.5) and AP courses (1.0), recognizing the increased rigor these classes demand. This approach has proven effective, with AP pass rates at premier institutions consistently exceeding 90%.
STEM and Humanities Opportunities
STEM education flourishes across Long Island’s leading high schools through specialized academies and research programs. Syosset and Half Hollow Hills offer engineering pathways featuring courses in robotics, computer science, and biomedical sciences.
Research-focused programs like Cold Spring Harbor’s partnership with local laboratories provide authentic scientific experience. Students regularly participate in prestigious competitions, including Regeneron Science Talent Search, with Long Island schools producing multiple finalists annually.
Humanities education remains equally robust, with schools like Manhasset and Garden City offering specialized writing centers and journalism programs. Creative writing workshops, debate teams, and Model UN programs consistently win regional and national recognition.
Specialized Program Highlights:
- Science Research Programs (12 schools)
- Engineering Academies (8 schools)
- Computer Science Pathways (15 schools)
- Arts Concentrations (10 schools)
- International Baccalaureate (4 schools)
College Preparation Resources
Guidance departments at top Long Island schools maintain impressive counselor-to-student ratios, typically 1:150 compared to the national average of 1:250. This allows for personalized college planning beginning in sophomore year.
College application support includes dedicated essay workshops, interview preparation sessions, and financial aid seminars for families. Many schools feature college resource centers staffed with specialists who maintain relationships with university admissions offices.
Career exploration programs connect students with alumni networks and local businesses for internship opportunities. Schools like Roslyn and Herricks organize annual college fairs hosting representatives from 100+ institutions.
Test preparation is integrated into curricula, with specialized SAT/ACT preparation courses offered as electives or after-school programs. This comprehensive approach yields impressive results, with top schools reporting average SAT scores 150-200 points above national averages.
Extracurricular and Enrichment Opportunities
Long Island’s top high schools offer exceptional extracurricular programs that complement academic excellence and develop well-rounded students. These opportunities allow students to explore interests, build leadership skills, and enhance college applications while creating memorable high school experiences.
Athletics and Team Sports
Long Island high schools boast impressive athletic programs that compete at county, state, and national levels. Schools like Garden City High School and Manhasset Secondary School have earned multiple state championships in lacrosse, swimming, and track and field.
Most top-ranked schools offer between 15-25 varsity sports, with robust JV and freshman teams providing opportunities for athletes at all skill levels. Football, basketball, soccer, baseball, and lacrosse attract the highest participation rates.
Athletic facilities at these schools often include multiple playing fields, Olympic-sized swimming pools, and modern fitness centers. Schools like Ward Melville and Half Hollow Hills East feature state-of-the-art training facilities.
Many schools have established athletic rivalries dating back decades, creating spirited community events that foster school pride and tradition. Student-athletes from these programs regularly receive Division I scholarships.
Arts, Music, and Theater Programs
The arts thrive at Long Island’s elite high schools, with many earning national recognition for their programs. Jericho High School and Syosset High School consistently receive top honors at regional and national competitions for their orchestras and bands.
Theater departments produce 3-4 major shows annually, ranging from contemporary plays to classical musicals. Schools like Great Neck South and Roslyn High School have sent productions to prestigious festivals and competitions.
Visual arts programs provide specialized courses in drawing, painting, sculpture, and digital media. Student work is frequently displayed in professional galleries and earns recognition in competitions like the Scholastic Art Awards.
Many schools partner with professional organizations like the Long Island Philharmonic and Tilles Center to provide master classes and performance opportunities. These connections give students exposure to working professionals in the arts.
Clubs and Student Organizations
Top Long Island high schools host between 50-100 clubs and organizations, ensuring students find communities aligned with their interests. STEM-focused clubs like robotics teams, coding clubs, and science olympiad have achieved national recognition.
Leadership opportunities abound through student government, Model UN, and debate teams. These organizations develop public speaking skills and provide platforms for student advocacy within their schools.
Community service clubs organize large-scale initiatives that address local and global challenges. Students at schools like Paul D. Schreiber High School log thousands of volunteer hours annually through these organizations.
Special interest clubs reflect the diverse student populations, with cultural appreciation groups, environmental advocacy teams, and academic honor societies. Many clubs compete in regional and national competitions, bringing recognition to their schools.
Technology resources support club activities, with digital platforms facilitating collaboration and specialized equipment enabling hands-on projects. This infrastructure allows students to pursue complex initiatives that prepare them for college and careers.
