The 30 Best High Schools in North Dakota: Top Educational Institutions
Choosing the right high school can significantly impact a student’s academic journey and future opportunities. North Dakota offers numerous educational institutions that excel in various areas, from academics and extracurricular activities to college preparation and community involvement.
This comprehensive guide highlights the 30 best high schools across North Dakota based on factors including graduation rates, standardized test scores, college readiness, and overall educational quality.
These schools have demonstrated exceptional performance and commitment to student success, representing both larger urban centers and smaller rural communities throughout the Peace Garden State.
Here are the 30 best high schools in North Dakota:
1. Red River High School
Red River High School in Grand Forks stands as North Dakota’s premier educational institution for 2025. Founded in 1967, it serves approximately 1,100 students in grades 9-12 with a student-to-teacher ratio of 14:1.
The school boasts impressive academic statistics with a 96% graduation rate and 85% of students demonstrating proficiency in mathematics and reading. Advanced Placement participation exceeds state averages, with over 45% of students enrolled in at least one AP course.
Red River offers more than 20 varsity sports and 30 student organizations. Their debate team has won state championships for three consecutive years, while their robotics club regularly competes in national tournaments.
The school features modern facilities including a recently renovated STEM lab and performing arts center. Faculty credentials are exceptional, with 78% of teachers holding advanced degrees and an average experience level of 12 years.
2. Shanley High School
Shanley High School, located in Fargo, North Dakota, consistently ranks as one of the top private Catholic high schools in the state. Founded in 1917, it has built a strong reputation for academic excellence and spiritual formation.
The school maintains an impressive student-to-teacher ratio of approximately 12:1, allowing for personalized attention and instruction. Shanley boasts a 99% graduation rate with over 90% of graduates continuing to higher education.
Students at Shanley benefit from a rigorous college preparatory curriculum that includes Advanced Placement courses and dual credit options. The school’s average ACT score typically exceeds both state and national averages.
Beyond academics, Shanley offers extensive extracurricular activities including championship-winning sports teams and award-winning fine arts programs. The school’s commitment to community service also stands out, with students completing thousands of volunteer hours annually.
3. West Fargo High School
West Fargo High School consistently ranks among North Dakota’s top educational institutions. Located in West Fargo, it serves approximately 1,400 students in grades 9-12 with a student-to-teacher ratio of 16:1.
The school offers a comprehensive curriculum including Advanced Placement courses, dual-credit options, and Career and Technical Education programs. Students can choose from over 20 AP classes, giving them opportunities to earn college credit while still in high school.
West Fargo High School boasts strong performance in standardized testing, with scores regularly exceeding state averages. The school’s graduation rate stands at approximately 92%, well above the national average.
Extracurricular activities are abundant, with competitive athletic programs and diverse clubs. The school’s debate team, DECA chapter, and music programs have received state recognition for excellence.
The modern facility includes state-of-the-art technology labs, a performing arts center, and recently renovated science classrooms.
4. Century High School
Century High School, located in Bismarck, North Dakota, serves approximately 1,200 students in grades 9-12. The school consistently ranks among the top educational institutions in the state, with a graduation rate that exceeds 95%.
The curriculum at Century High School offers a diverse range of advanced placement courses, giving students opportunities to earn college credits while still in high school. Their AP program includes options in sciences, mathematics, English, and social studies.
Century’s extracurricular activities complement its academic excellence. The school fields competitive teams in numerous sports and maintains active clubs in areas such as debate, robotics, and performing arts.
The school boasts modern facilities including well-equipped science laboratories, a comprehensive library, and updated technology resources. Their student-to-teacher ratio of approximately 15:1 allows for personalized attention.
Students at Century consistently perform above state averages on standardized tests and college entrance exams.
5. Bismarck High School
Bismarck High School, established in 1912, stands as one of North Dakota’s most historic educational institutions. The school serves approximately 1,200 students in grades 9-12 and maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 14:1.
Bismarck High offers a comprehensive curriculum with 15 Advanced Placement courses and numerous dual credit options through Bismarck State College. Its mathematics and science programs have received particular recognition for excellence.
The school boasts strong athletic programs, with multiple state championships in basketball, football, and wrestling. Extracurricular activities include debate, theater, and music programs that consistently earn superior ratings at state competitions.
Bismarck High School graduates demonstrate college readiness, with ACT scores consistently above both state and national averages. The school maintains a graduation rate of approximately 92%, with a significant percentage of students continuing to higher education.
6. Fargo North High School
Fargo North High School is a public high school located in Fargo, North Dakota. It serves approximately 850 students in grades 9-12 and maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 14:1.
The school offers a comprehensive academic program including Advanced Placement courses and dual-credit options through local colleges. Students can choose from over 15 AP classes, giving them opportunities to earn college credit while still in high school.
Fargo North boasts strong performance in standardized testing, with average ACT scores consistently above both state and national averages. The school’s graduation rate exceeds 95%, with a high percentage of graduates pursuing higher education.
The school fields competitive teams in numerous sports and activities. Their debate team and music programs have earned state recognition, while athletic teams regularly compete at the state tournament level.
7. Sheyenne High School
Sheyenne High School in West Fargo opened its doors in 2015 as the district’s second high school. The school serves approximately 1,400 students in grades 9-12 and has quickly established itself as one of North Dakota’s premier educational institutions.
Academically, Sheyenne offers a robust curriculum with numerous Advanced Placement courses and college-credit options. Their graduation rate consistently exceeds 95%, with more than 80% of graduates pursuing post-secondary education.
The school’s STEM program has gained recognition for its innovative approach and strong outcomes. Students regularly participate in state and national competitions in robotics, mathematics, and science.
Sheyenne also boasts strong athletic programs, with state championships in multiple sports since its founding. The Mustangs compete in the Eastern Dakota Conference and have developed competitive programs across all major sports.
The school maintains a 16:1 student-teacher ratio, allowing for personalized attention while offering diverse extracurricular activities.
8. Rugby High School
Rugby High School serves students in grades 7-12 in the city of Rugby, North Dakota. Located in Pierce County, the school maintains strong academic standards while offering students various extracurricular opportunities.
The Panthers, as their sports teams are known, compete in North Dakota Class B athletics with notable success in several sports. Their academic program includes advanced placement courses and college preparation tracks that help graduates pursue higher education.
Rugby High School has maintained solid performance metrics in standardized testing, with scores typically above state averages. The school emphasizes both academic excellence and character development through its comprehensive curriculum.
With approximately 200 students enrolled, Rugby High School maintains favorable student-to-teacher ratios that allow for personalized instruction. The school building underwent renovations in recent years to update facilities and enhance the learning environment.
9. Westhope High School
Westhope High School serves students in grades 7-12 in the small community of Westhope, North Dakota. The school maintains a low student-to-teacher ratio of approximately 10:1, allowing for personalized attention and strong educational relationships.
The academic program at Westhope emphasizes core subjects while offering several elective options to broaden student experiences. Advanced placement courses are available in mathematics and science, giving students opportunities to earn college credit while still in high school.
Extracurricular activities form an important part of the Westhope experience. The school fields competitive teams in basketball, volleyball, and track, while also supporting clubs focused on agriculture, technology, and community service.
Westhope High School consistently achieves above-average graduation rates, with most graduates pursuing either higher education or technical training. The school’s commitment to academic excellence and community values has earned it recognition among North Dakota’s top educational institutions.
10. Grand Forks Central High School
Grand Forks Central High School serves approximately 950 students in grades 9-12 in Grand Forks, North Dakota. Established in 1882, it’s one of the oldest educational institutions in the state with a rich history spanning over 140 years.
The school maintains a solid academic program with a graduation rate of 92%, exceeding the state average. Students at Grand Forks Central have access to 12 Advanced Placement courses and various dual-credit options through partnerships with local colleges.
The Knights, as their athletic teams are known, compete in various North Dakota High School Activities Association sports. Their music and arts programs have received state recognition for excellence.
Grand Forks Central offers over 30 student organizations and clubs, providing diverse extracurricular opportunities. The school’s building underwent significant renovations in 2021, enhancing technological infrastructure and learning spaces.
11. Jamestown High School
Jamestown High School serves approximately 650 students in grades 9-12 in Jamestown, North Dakota. The school maintains a strong academic curriculum with a student-to-teacher ratio of 14:1, allowing for personalized attention and support.
The Blue Jays, as they’re known athletically, compete in North Dakota’s Class A division with notable programs in basketball, football, and volleyball. Their athletics program has produced several state championships and collegiate athletes over the years.
Jamestown High School offers numerous Advanced Placement courses and dual-credit options through partnerships with local colleges. These opportunities allow students to earn college credits while still in high school, better preparing them for higher education.
The school features modern facilities including updated science labs, a well-equipped performing arts center, and technology-enhanced classrooms. Extracurricular activities range from debate and DECA to robotics and student government.
12. Valley City High School
Valley City High School stands as a cornerstone of education in Valley City, North Dakota. With approximately 300 students enrolled, this institution maintains a favorable student-to-teacher ratio of 15:1, allowing for personalized attention.
The school offers a comprehensive curriculum including advanced placement courses in mathematics, sciences, and humanities. Their graduation rate consistently exceeds the state average, with 92% of students receiving diplomas in the 2023-2024 academic year.
Athletics play a significant role in Valley City High’s culture, with their Hi-Liners teams competing in Class A divisions. The school particularly excels in basketball, track and field, and volleyball programs.
Valley City High School has implemented innovative technology initiatives, providing each student with access to digital resources. Their college readiness program has resulted in 68% of graduates pursuing higher education, while 22% enter vocational training.
13. Minot High School
Minot High School operates on a two-campus system serving students in grades 9-12 in Minot, North Dakota. The Magic City Campus handles juniors and seniors, while Central Campus educates freshmen and sophomores, creating a unique educational structure for students.
The school boasts strong academic programs with a diverse offering of AP courses and dual enrollment options with Minot State University. Students consistently perform above state averages on standardized tests and college readiness metrics.
Minot High’s extracurricular activities shine with award-winning music programs and competitive athletics. The Magicians, as their sports teams are known, have claimed numerous state championships across various sports.
The school serves approximately 1,900 students and maintains a student-to-teacher ratio that allows for personalized attention. Their graduation rate exceeds the state average, with a high percentage of graduates pursuing higher education.
14. Grafton High School
Grafton High School serves students in grades 9-12 in Grafton, North Dakota. The school maintains a strong academic program with a student-to-teacher ratio that allows for personalized attention.
Students at Grafton High School have access to various Advanced Placement courses and college preparatory programs. The school’s curriculum emphasizes core subjects while offering electives in areas such as agriculture, business, and the arts.
Athletics play an important role in the school community, with the Spoilers competing in numerous sports including football, basketball, and track. Extracurricular activities extend beyond sports to include music programs, drama, and academic clubs.
Grafton High School consistently performs above the state average on standardized tests. The school’s graduation rate reflects its commitment to student success and college readiness.
15. Hazelton-Moffit-Braddock High School
Hazelton-Moffit-Braddock High School serves students in rural south-central North Dakota. The school maintains small class sizes, typically averaging fewer than 15 students per classroom, which enables personalized attention for each student.
The curriculum at HMB High School emphasizes college preparation while also offering practical vocational courses. Students have access to several AP courses and dual-credit options through partnerships with regional colleges.
Athletic programs are central to the school’s identity, with basketball and volleyball teams regularly competing at district and regional levels. The school’s close-knit community provides strong support for both academic and extracurricular activities.
HMB High School boasts a graduation rate consistently above the state average. Their technology integration initiative has equipped classrooms with modern tools, preparing students for an increasingly digital future.
16. Harvey High School
Harvey High School serves students in grades 7-12 in Harvey, North Dakota. The school maintains a solid academic program with a student-to-teacher ratio that allows for personalized attention.
Students at Harvey High School have access to a range of college preparatory courses. The curriculum includes several Advanced Placement options to challenge high-achieving students.
The school boasts strong athletic programs, with teams competing in various sports throughout the North Dakota High School Activities Association. These include basketball, volleyball, football, and track.
Harvey High School provides students with technology resources to enhance their learning experience. The school has updated computer labs and incorporates digital learning tools in classrooms.
Community involvement is a key aspect of the Harvey High School experience. Parents and local businesses actively participate in school events and provide support for educational initiatives.
17. Carrington High School
Carrington High School serves students in grades 9-12 in Carrington, North Dakota. The school maintains a favorable student-to-teacher ratio, allowing for personalized attention and academic support.
The curriculum at Carrington High School emphasizes college preparation while also offering career and technical education programs. Students have access to several Advanced Placement courses that provide opportunities for earning college credits while still in high school.
Athletic programs are a point of pride for the Cardinals, with teams competing in various North Dakota High School Activities Association sports. The school also maintains strong fine arts programs, including band, choir, and drama.
Carrington High School consistently achieves solid academic performance metrics on state assessments. The school focuses on developing well-rounded students through its combination of academic rigor, extracurricular activities, and community involvement.
18. Park River High School
Park River High School serves students in grades 7-12 in the city of Park River, North Dakota. The school maintains a strong academic program with a student-to-teacher ratio that allows for personalized attention.
Students at Park River benefit from a comprehensive curriculum that includes advanced placement options and college prep courses. The school’s dedication to academic excellence is reflected in its above-average graduation rates and college acceptance statistics.
Beyond academics, Park River High School offers a variety of extracurricular activities. These include competitive sports teams, music programs, and various clubs that enhance student development.
The school takes pride in its community connections, often partnering with local businesses for student internships and career exploration opportunities. Park River’s facilities include updated technology labs, athletic fields, and a well-maintained library.
19. Ellendale High School
Ellendale High School serves students in grades 7-12 in the small community of Ellendale, North Dakota. The school maintains a low student-to-teacher ratio of approximately 12:1, allowing for personalized attention and strong academic guidance.
The curriculum at Ellendale High School includes a range of college preparatory courses alongside vocational education options. Students have access to several AP courses and dual-credit opportunities through partnerships with regional colleges.
Extracurricular activities are an important part of the Ellendale experience, with strong athletic programs in basketball, volleyball, and track. The school’s FFA chapter has received state recognition for its achievements in agricultural education.
Technology integration is emphasized throughout the curriculum, with all students having access to digital learning tools. Community involvement remains a cornerstone of the school’s philosophy, with students participating in various service projects throughout the year.
20. Oakes High School
Oakes High School, located in Oakes, North Dakota, serves approximately 150 students in grades 9-12. The school maintains a favorable student-to-teacher ratio of 12:1, allowing for personalized attention and instruction.
Academic performance at Oakes High School consistently exceeds state averages with proficiency rates of 52% in math and 58% in reading. The school offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes advanced placement courses and dual credit options through partnerships with regional colleges.
Extracurricular activities form an important part of the Oakes High School experience. Students can participate in various sports including basketball, volleyball, and track, as well as clubs focused on agriculture, music, and technology.
The school’s graduation rate stands at 92%, with approximately 70% of graduates pursuing higher education. Community involvement remains a cornerstone of the Oakes educational philosophy, with numerous service-learning opportunities available to students.
21. Turtle Mountain School
Turtle Mountain School, located in Belcourt, serves the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa community. The school provides education to students in grades 9-12 with a focus on both academic excellence and cultural preservation.
The curriculum at Turtle Mountain integrates traditional Ojibwe values with college preparatory courses. Students benefit from a student-to-teacher ratio of approximately 15:1, allowing for personalized attention and support.
The school has made significant progress in graduation rates over the past five years, with rates improving from 78% to 87%. Athletic programs include basketball, volleyball, and cross-country, with their basketball team reaching state semifinals in 2024.
Turtle Mountain School offers several AP courses including English, Biology, and U.S. History. The school also provides dual enrollment opportunities through partnerships with local community colleges, helping students earn college credits while still in high school.
22. Richardton-Taylor High School
Richardton-Taylor High School serves students in the small communities of Richardton and Taylor in southwestern North Dakota. The school maintains a favorable student-to-teacher ratio of approximately 10:1, allowing for personalized attention and strong relationships between educators and students.
Academic performance at Richardton-Taylor consistently exceeds state averages, with particularly strong showings in mathematics and science. The school offers a variety of Advanced Placement courses despite its small size, giving students opportunities for college preparation.
Athletics play an important role in the school community, with the Raiders competing in North Dakota Class B divisions. Basketball, volleyball, and track programs have seen notable success in recent years.
The school benefits from strong community support and parental involvement. Many faculty members have taught at Richardton-Taylor for extended periods, providing stability and institutional knowledge to the educational environment.
23. Wahpeton High School
Wahpeton High School serves students in grades 9-12 in Wahpeton, North Dakota. Located in the southeastern part of the state near the Minnesota border, the school maintains a student population of approximately 350 students.
The school offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes college preparatory courses, career and technical education programs, and various electives. Advanced Placement courses are available in subjects such as mathematics, science, and English.
Wahpeton High School boasts a strong athletic program with teams competing in the Eastern Dakota Conference. The Huskies, as they are known, participate in numerous sports including football, basketball, wrestling, and track and field.
The school maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of approximately 15:1, allowing for personalized attention. Extracurricular activities include student government, music programs, drama club, and various academic competitions.
24. Devils Lake High School
Devils Lake High School serves students in grades 9-12 in Devils Lake, North Dakota. The school maintains a solid academic program with a variety of course offerings to prepare students for college and careers.
The student-to-teacher ratio at Devils Lake allows for personalized attention while providing comprehensive educational opportunities. The school offers several Advanced Placement courses and dual-credit options through partnerships with local colleges.
Athletics are an important part of the Devils Lake High School experience, with the Firebirds competing in various sports throughout the year. The school fields competitive teams in basketball, football, wrestling, and track among others.
Devils Lake High School emphasizes community involvement and service learning. Students participate in various clubs and organizations that promote leadership development and civic engagement.
The campus features modern facilities including updated science labs, a well-equipped library, and technology resources to support student learning.
25. New Town High School
New Town High School serves students in grades 9-12 in New Town, North Dakota. Located on the Fort Berthold Indian Reservation, the school embraces its diverse student population with a focus on both academic excellence and cultural awareness.
The school offers a range of college preparatory courses alongside technical and vocational programs. Their curriculum includes advanced placement options for students seeking additional academic challenges.
Athletics are an important part of student life at New Town High School, with the Eagles competing in various sports within their division. The school’s basketball program has achieved notable success in regional competitions.
New Town High School maintains a student-to-teacher ratio that allows for personalized attention. Their dedicated faculty works to create a supportive learning environment that prepares students for both college and careers.
The school has implemented technology initiatives to enhance digital literacy among students.
26. Lake Region High School
Lake Region High School in Devils Lake serves students in grades 9-12 with a dedication to academic excellence and personal growth. The school maintains a student-teacher ratio that allows for personalized attention and support.
The curriculum at Lake Region High School offers a range of college preparatory courses alongside career and technical education options. Students benefit from Advanced Placement offerings that provide opportunities for college credit while still in high school.
Athletic programs at Lake Region include basketball, football, wrestling, and volleyball, fostering teamwork and school spirit. The school also emphasizes extracurricular activities through various clubs and organizations that develop leadership skills.
Lake Region High School takes pride in its technology integration, with modern computer labs and classroom technology enhancing the learning experience. The school’s commitment to community involvement is evident through service projects and partnerships with local businesses.
27. Hettinger High School
Hettinger High School serves students in grades 9-12 in the small community of Hettinger, North Dakota. The school maintains a favorable student-to-teacher ratio of approximately 12:1, allowing for personalized attention and stronger student-teacher relationships.
Academic performance at Hettinger High School consistently meets state standards with particular strength in mathematics and science. The school offers a range of college preparatory courses alongside vocational education options that prepare students for both higher education and careers.
Extracurricular activities include competitive sports teams, with basketball and track having strong participation. The school also maintains active clubs in areas such as FFA, speech, and music.
Community involvement is a hallmark of Hettinger High, with students regularly participating in local service projects. The school’s educational philosophy emphasizes rural values while preparing students for success in an increasingly connected world.
28. Bottineau High School
Bottineau High School serves students in grades 9-12 in the city of Bottineau, North Dakota. The school maintains a student-teacher ratio of approximately 12:1, allowing for personalized attention and strong academic support.
The Braves, as their athletic teams are known, compete in various North Dakota High School Activities Association sports. Their athletics program includes basketball, volleyball, football, and track, with several championship titles in their history.
Bottineau High School offers a comprehensive curriculum with standard academic courses alongside electives and vocational training opportunities. Students have access to Advanced Placement courses and dual-credit options through partnerships with local colleges.
The school maintains strong community connections through various service projects and local partnerships. Their graduation rate consistently exceeds the state average, with many graduates pursuing higher education at North Dakota universities and colleges.
29. Lincoln High School (Fargo)
Lincoln High School serves students in grades 9-12 in Fargo, North Dakota. Established in the late 1960s, the school maintains a solid academic reputation with a curriculum that balances core subjects with elective offerings.
The school boasts a student-to-teacher ratio that allows for personalized attention while offering a diverse range of extracurricular activities. Their athletics program includes traditional sports like football, basketball, and track, alongside competitive teams in swimming and hockey.
Lincoln High emphasizes college preparation with Advanced Placement courses and dual-credit options. Their graduation rate consistently exceeds the state average, with a significant percentage of graduates continuing to higher education.
The school facilities include updated science labs, a comprehensive library, and technology resources. Lincoln maintains strong community partnerships that enhance educational opportunities for students through mentorship programs and internships with local businesses.
30. Jamestown Waldorf School
Jamestown Waldorf School offers a holistic educational approach in North Dakota. The school follows the Waldorf education philosophy developed by Rudolf Steiner, emphasizing arts, practical skills, and academic excellence.
Located in Jamestown, the school provides a nurturing environment for students to develop at their own pace. The curriculum integrates subjects through artistic activities, movement, and experiential learning rather than traditional textbook instruction.
The school features small class sizes, allowing for personalized attention. Teachers typically stay with the same group of students for multiple years, building strong relationships and understanding each child’s unique learning style.
Jamestown Waldorf School emphasizes outdoor education regardless of weather conditions. Students engage in gardening, nature studies, and outdoor play as integral parts of their educational experience.
The school community includes engaged parents who participate in school activities and events throughout the academic year.
North Dakota High School Education Overview
North Dakota’s education system serves approximately 110,000 K-12 students across its 175 school districts. The state maintains rigorous academic standards while balancing educational opportunities in both urban centers like Fargo and Bismarck with those in rural communities.
Academic Standards and Curriculum
North Dakota schools follow the North Dakota Content Standards, which establish expectations for student achievement in core subjects. These standards emphasize college and career readiness, with recent updates focusing on STEM education and technological literacy.
The state requires 22 credits for high school graduation, including 4 units of English, 3 units of mathematics, 3 units of science, and 3 units of social studies. Advanced Placement (AP) and dual credit courses are available in most high schools, allowing students to earn college credits before graduation.
North Dakota’s Choice Ready framework helps ensure students graduate prepared for college, careers, or military service. This initiative has contributed to the state’s graduation rate of approximately 89%, which exceeds the national average.
Rural schools often employ innovative approaches like distance learning and shared resources to provide comprehensive education despite geographical challenges.
Extracurricular Activities and Student Life
Athletics play a central role in North Dakota high schools, with popular sports including basketball, football, hockey, and wrestling. The North Dakota High School Activities Association oversees 25 sanctioned sports and activities across the state.
Beyond sports, students participate in a variety of clubs and organizations that develop leadership skills and community engagement. Future Farmers of America (FFA) and 4-H are particularly strong in rural communities, reflecting the state’s agricultural heritage.
Music and arts programs remain well-supported despite budget constraints in some districts. Band, choir, and theater productions are common extracurricular offerings.
Many North Dakota high schools emphasize career and technical education (CTE) through clubs like SkillsUSA and DECA, preparing students for various technical and business careers.
Community service initiatives are increasingly integrated into student life, with many schools requiring volunteer hours for graduation or specialized diploma endorsements.
Factors That Influence High School Rankings in North Dakota
North Dakota high schools are evaluated on multiple criteria that reflect both academic excellence and overall educational environment. Several key metrics determine how schools compare against each other within the state’s educational landscape.
Graduation Rates and Postsecondary Readiness
Graduation rates serve as a primary indicator of school performance in North Dakota. Schools with rates exceeding 90% typically rank higher on statewide lists, demonstrating their ability to support students through completion.
College readiness measures also significantly impact rankings. This includes the percentage of students taking advanced courses like AP, IB, or dual-credit offerings with local colleges.
ACT scores play a crucial role in North Dakota rankings, with the state averaging 19.9 in recent years. Schools where students consistently score above 21 receive higher marks in evaluation systems.
The percentage of students continuing to postsecondary education—whether four-year universities, community colleges, or technical programs—further influences rankings. Top schools typically send 70-85% of graduates to higher education.
Community and Faculty Engagement
Teacher qualifications directly affect school rankings. North Dakota evaluators consider factors such as advanced degrees, years of experience, and teacher certification rates.
Student-teacher ratios impact educational quality, with lower ratios of 15:1 or less considered more favorable than the state average of approximately 17:1.
Parental involvement measures, including participation in school events and volunteer hours, contribute to ranking calculations. Schools with active Parent-Teacher Associations often receive higher marks.
Community partnerships with local businesses and organizations enhance educational opportunities through internships, mentorships, and real-world learning experiences. These connections can elevate a school’s ranking by demonstrating broader educational value beyond traditional academics.
