The 30 Best High Schools in Wyoming: Rankings and Academic Performance
Wyoming’s education system serves over 91,000 students across 363 public schools, with 97% of K-12 students attending public institutions. The state maintains a strong commitment to educational excellence despite its rural geography and relatively small population.
Parents and students seeking the highest-quality education in Wyoming can choose from numerous schools that demonstrate outstanding academic performance, college preparation programs, and student success rates.
These top-performing institutions span from urban centers like Cheyenne and Casper to smaller communities throughout the state, offering diverse educational opportunities that prepare students for future academic and career success.
Here are the 30 best high schools in Wyoming:
1. Poder Academy
Poder Academy Secondary School ranks within the top 10% of all public schools in Wyoming. The charter school serves 120 students in grades 7-12 in Cheyenne.
The school maintains a student-teacher ratio of 11 to 1. This allows for more individualized attention and smaller class sizes.
According to state test scores, 82% of students demonstrate proficiency in reading. Additionally, 62% of students are proficient in math.
The school’s student body is diverse, with 37% minority enrollment. About 35% of students are economically disadvantaged.
Poder Academy operates as part of the Laramie County School District #1. The school offers Advanced Placement courses to prepare students for college-level work.
The academy focuses on rigorous academic programs designed to prepare students for higher education and future careers.
2. Big Horn High School
Big Horn High School consistently ranks among Wyoming’s top academic institutions. The school has achieved a 5-star rating from SchoolDigger and ranked 1st out of 80 high schools in Wyoming multiple years.
Students at Big Horn High School score well above state averages on standardized tests. The school excels in English Language Arts, math, and science assessments.
The school maintains a low student-teacher ratio of 10.7 to 1. This allows for more personalized attention and instruction for students.
Big Horn High School serves 149 students in grades 9-12. The school is located in Big Horn, Wyoming, and operates within the top 5% of all public schools statewide.
The student body consists of 12% minority enrollment. Additionally, 11% of students are classified as economically disadvantaged.
3. Little Snake River Valley School
Little Snake River Valley School operates as a K-12 public institution in Baggs, Wyoming. The school serves approximately 189-190 students across all grade levels.
The school maintains a student-teacher ratio of 10 to 1. This allows for more individualized attention in classroom settings.
Little Snake River Valley School ranks within the top 5% of all public schools in Wyoming. State test scores show 77% of students demonstrate proficiency in both math and reading.
The school serves multiple communities including Baggs, Dixon, and Savery in Wyoming, plus Slater, Colorado. It operates within Carbon County School District #1 as one of six schools in the district.
Advanced Placement courses are available to students. The school ranks 44th out of 80 Wyoming schools for students receiving lunch assistance, with 31.2% of students qualifying for free or reduced lunch programs.
4. Laramie High School
Teachers are available before and after school to provide additional help to students. Although teachers are contracted to be at the school from 7:30 am to 3:30 pm, many teachers are here earlier and later than their contracted time.
In addition, Laramie High School offers a late bus which will pick up students at 4:10 each day who wish to stay after school for extra help.
Intervention & Enrichment or I&E is available every Wednesday morning from 8:00 to 9:30am. This is a time students can receive additional support from teachers, make-up any missing work, or simply complete homework or study.
In addition, students who are passing all of their classes and are caught up on all work will have the opportunity to participate in various enrichment activities such as intramural sports, career fairs, or club meetings.
5. Burlington High School
Burlington High School serves 72 students in grades 9-12 in Burlington, Wyoming. The school operates as part of the Big Horn County School District #1.
The school ranks within the top 5% of all public schools in Wyoming. This achievement reflects strong academic performance across multiple metrics.
Burlington High School students demonstrate exceptional standardized test performance. The classes of 2024 and 2025 achieved the highest composite ACT scores in the state.
The school maintains consistent high rankings among Wyoming’s top educational institutions. Burlington High School appears regularly on statewide rankings of the best public high schools.
Students at Burlington High School benefit from a small school environment. The limited enrollment allows for more personalized attention and stronger student-teacher relationships.
The school’s location in Burlington provides students with a rural Wyoming educational experience. This setting offers unique opportunities while maintaining high academic standards.
6. Sheridan High School
Sheridan High School stands as Wyoming’s top-ranked high school according to recent national rankings. The school consistently demonstrates strong academic performance across multiple metrics.
Located in Sheridan, Wyoming, this public high school serves students in grades 9-12. The school maintains high test scores and graduation rates compared to state averages.
Sheridan High School significantly outperforms other schools in its district. The institution provides quality educational resources and programming for its student body.
The school has earned recognition from multiple ranking organizations for its academic excellence. Students benefit from experienced faculty and comprehensive course offerings.
Sheridan High School’s consistent performance places it among Wyoming’s most respected educational institutions. The school continues to maintain its reputation for preparing students for college and career success.
7. Cokeville High School
Cokeville High School is an above average, public school located in COKEVILLE, WY. It has 104 students in grades 7-12 with a student-teacher ratio of 13 to 1. According to state test scores, 67% of students are at least proficient in math and 77% in reading.
The student population of Cokeville High School is 108 and the school serves 7-12. At Cokeville High School, 67% of students scored at or above the proficient level for math, and 77% scored at or above that level for reading.
The school’s minority student enrollment is 1%. The student-teacher ratio is 13:1, which is better than that of the district. The student population is made up of 40% female students and 60% male students.
The school enrolls 19% economically disadvantaged students. There are 8 equivalent full-time teachers and 1 full-time school counselor.
8. Kelly Walsh High School
Kelly Walsh High School serves 2,073 students in grades 9-12 in Casper, Wyoming. The school operates within Natrona County School District No. 1 and ranks in the top 50% of all public schools in Wyoming.
The school maintains strong academic traditions with extensive Advanced Placement course offerings. Students can access college credit courses, career and technical education programs, and gifted and talented opportunities.
Kelly Walsh emphasizes academic rigor across multiple subjects including mathematics, science, world languages, and social studies. The school regularly produces winners in statewide academic competitions.
The institution’s mission focuses on preparing students for their next educational step through high expectations and personal responsibility. Fine arts and technology programs complement the comprehensive academic curriculum.
Student demographics show 31.5% receive free and reduced lunch assistance, slightly below the state average of 33.6%. This indicates the surrounding area has relatively lower poverty levels compared to Wyoming overall.
9. Rock Springs High School
Rock Springs High School serves 1,466 students in grades 9-12 in Rock Springs, Wyoming. The school operates within the Sweetwater County School District #1.
The school ranks in the bottom 50% of all public schools in Wyoming. Test scores consistently fall below state averages across various subjects.
Rock Springs High School is the larger of two high schools in the city. The other school, Black Butte High School, also serves grades 9-12 in the same district.
Despite its size and resources, the school faces academic challenges. Student performance on standardized tests remains below Wyoming’s state benchmarks.
The school provides comprehensive education services to a significant portion of Rock Springs’ high school population. Its large enrollment reflects its role as a primary educational institution in the community.
10. Casper High School
Casper High School serves students in the Casper, Wyoming metropolitan area as part of the Natrona County School District #1. The school operates within a district that includes 26 schools total.
The institution focuses on college readiness and academic preparation for its student body. Casper High School works alongside other notable schools in the area including Kelly Walsh High School and Natrona County High School.
Students at Casper High School benefit from being part of Wyoming’s largest school district. The school maintains standards consistent with other public high schools in the region.
The campus serves as one of the primary educational options for families in the Casper area. Casper High School contributes to the educational landscape of central Wyoming through its academic programs and student services.
11. Cheyenne Central High School
Cheyenne Central High School serves 1,284 students in grades 9-12 with a student-teacher ratio of 14 to 1. The school maintains above-average performance standards in Wyoming’s capital city.
According to state assessments, 44% of students achieve proficiency in mathematics while 51% demonstrate proficiency in reading. The school offers Advanced Placement courses to challenge high-achieving students.
Central High School holds accreditation from the North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools. The institution first received accreditation in 1904 and continues to meet standards set by the Wyoming State Department of Education.
The school operates as part of Laramie County School District #1, which includes five high schools total. Central High School represents one of six high schools serving Cheyenne students.
Rankings consistently place Central High School among the top-performing schools in the Cheyenne metropolitan area based on graduation rates and college readiness metrics.
12. Laramie High School
Laramie High School stands as Wyoming’s top-ranked secondary school according to U.S. News and World Report. The school earned national recognition with a silver medal for ranking among the top 1,000 schools nationwide.
Located in Laramie, Wyoming, this public high school serves students in Albany County School District. The school demonstrates strong academic performance across core subject areas.
Laramie High School benefits from the district’s overall excellence. Local public schools show math proficiency scores of 57% compared to Wyoming’s 48% average. Reading proficiency reaches 60% versus the state average of 53%.
The school district maintains an average ranking of 8 out of 10, placing it in the top 30% of Wyoming public schools. This consistent performance reflects the community’s commitment to educational excellence.
13. Riverton High School
Riverton High School serves students in Riverton, Wyoming, located at 2001 West Sunset. The school ranks between 39th and 55th among Wyoming high schools according to recent evaluations.
The student body demonstrates significant diversity with 41% minority enrollment. About 35% of students qualify as economically disadvantaged, reflecting the community’s varied socioeconomic makeup.
Riverton High School operates as one of two high schools in the local district. The school provides comprehensive educational services to students in the area.
Contact information includes phone number (307) 856-9491 and fax (307) 856-2333. The school maintains standard administrative operations and student support services.
Test scores and academic performance place the school in the middle range compared to other Wyoming institutions. The school continues to serve its community’s educational needs within the state’s public school system.
14. Buffalo High School
Buffalo High School serves students in Buffalo, Wyoming as part of Johnson County School District #1. The school is located at 29891 Old Highway 87 and can be reached at 307.684.2269.
The school ranks 43rd out of 80 Wyoming high schools for students receiving lunch assistance. Only 18.0% of students participate in free and reduced lunch programs, which is below the state average of 33.6%.
Buffalo High School demonstrates solid academic performance within the district. The school consistently maintains statewide rankings that place it among Wyoming’s recognized institutions.
Students have access to standard high school programming and resources. The school operates within a district that includes multiple educational levels from elementary through high school.
Buffalo High School represents one of two high school options available to families in the Buffalo area. The institution continues to serve the local community’s educational needs.
15. Cody High School
Cody High School serves 613 students in grades 9-12 in Cody, Wyoming. The school ranks 16th within Wyoming and falls within the top 50% of all public schools in the state.
Students have access to Advanced Placement coursework and exams. The AP participation rate reaches 30%, providing college-level learning opportunities.
The school demonstrates strong academic performance with higher proficiency rates in WY-TOPP English Language Arts, Mathematics, and Science for 9th and 10th grades. This performance places it at 35 out of 80 Wyoming high schools.
Cody High School has a lower percentage of students on free and reduced lunch assistance at 15.3%. This rate falls below the state average of 32.5%.
The school stands out as the higher-performing institution among Cody area high schools. Its combination of academic achievement and college preparation programs makes it a notable choice for students.
16. Green River High School
Green River High School ranks 11th among Wyoming high schools. The school serves 757 students in grades 9-12 in Green River, Wyoming.
The school maintains a position within the top 50% of all public schools statewide. It has earned a 3-star rating from SchoolDigger, indicating above-average performance compared to other Wyoming schools.
Students can take Advanced Placement coursework and exams. This provides opportunities for college-level learning while still in high school.
The school has shown consistent performance in recent years. It reached as high as 12th out of 80 schools during the 2021-2022 school year.
Green River High School stands out as the top-performing school in the Green River area. It consistently ranks higher than other local high schools in the district.
17. Jackson Hole High School
Jackson Hole High School stands as Wyoming’s top-ranked public high school according to U.S. News rankings. The school serves 822 students in Jackson and consistently performs at the highest level statewide.
The school earned recognition by ranking first among 91 Wyoming high schools. Rankings consider state test performance, graduation rates, and college preparation effectiveness.
Jackson Hole High School offers extensive Advanced Placement courses and dual enrollment options. These programs provide students with college-level academic experiences while in high school.
Student achievement remains strong across standardized testing. The school’s graduates demonstrate solid college readiness through their academic performance and test scores.
The institution maintains its position as the premier high school in Teton County School District #1. Jackson Hole High School has reached as high as 26th out of 80 schools in recent state rankings.
18. Rawlins High School
Rawlins High School serves as the primary high school in Rawlins, Wyoming. The school enrolls 422 students and operates within Carbon County School District #1.
The school ranked 27th out of 80 Wyoming high schools for the 2023-2024 school year. This places Rawlins High School in the upper half of state rankings.
Students have access to Advanced Placement courses and Project Lead The Way curriculum. These programs provide college preparation and career-focused learning opportunities.
The school’s free and reduced lunch rate stands at 30.5%, which is slightly below the state average of 32.5%. This indicates the student body comes from relatively stable economic backgrounds.
Rawlins High School competes with Victory High School as the second high school option in the city. Victory High School has a much smaller enrollment of 56 students.
19. Lander Valley High School
Lander Valley High School serves 558 students in grades 9-12 in Lander, Wyoming. The school operates as part of Fremont County School District #1.
The school maintains a student-teacher ratio of 15 to 1. According to state test scores, 42% of students demonstrate proficiency in math and 57% in reading.
Lander Valley High School ranks within the bottom 50% of Wyoming’s public high schools. Despite this ranking, it performs better than Pathfinder High School, the other high school in Lander.
The school offers various resources including a parent portal and aquatic center. Students have access to employment opportunities and safety reporting systems.
Lander Valley High School is located in Fremont County, which contains several other ranked high schools including Dubois High School and Wind River High School.
20. Natrona County High School
Natrona County High School serves students in Casper, Wyoming, as part of the Natrona County School District #1. The school operates as one of four high schools within the district.
The institution has a rich history, celebrating its 125th anniversary during the 2021-22 school year. The current building was constructed in 1924 and combines traditional educational approaches with modern innovations.
Student demographics show that 20% of enrollment represents minority students. Additionally, 30% of the student body qualifies as economically disadvantaged.
Alumni from Natrona County High School have pursued leadership positions across various sectors. Graduates have established careers in community organizations, state government, national institutions, and international settings.
The school maintains its position among Wyoming’s recognized public high schools. Rankings and performance metrics place it within the state’s educational landscape for academic achievement and student preparation.
21. Wheatland High School
Wheatland High School serves 271 students in the Platte County School District #1. The school ranks 23rd out of 80 Wyoming high schools according to SchoolDigger.
The school has earned a 4-star rating from SchoolDigger. Over 50% of students perform well on state tests, demonstrating strong academic achievement.
Student diversity includes 16% minority enrollment. About 24% of students are economically disadvantaged.
Wheatland High School is one of four high schools in its district. The school maintains its position in the top half of Wyoming high schools.
The institution provides educational services to students in Wheatland, Wyoming. Academic performance data shows consistent results across state assessments.
22. Evanston High School
Evanston High School serves as the primary public high school in Evanston, Wyoming. The school enrolls approximately 747 to 776 students across grades 9-12.
The school ranks within the top 50% of all public high schools in Wyoming. This ranking reflects its academic performance among the state’s educational institutions.
Evanston High School operates as the larger of two high schools in the city. The alternative option, Horizon Alternative School, serves a much smaller student population of 47 students.
The school provides comprehensive education services to students in the Evanston area. Located in southwestern Wyoming, it serves families throughout Uinta County.
State testing assessments and enrollment data are regularly tracked and reported. The school maintains its position as a mid-tier performer within Wyoming’s public education system.
23. Star Valley High School
Star Valley High School serves 883 students in grades 9-12 in Afton, Wyoming. The school ranks 21st within Wyoming and falls within the top 50% of all public schools in the state.
The school offers Advanced Placement coursework and exams for students seeking college-level academics. A Gifted & Talented program provides additional opportunities for high-achieving students.
Star Valley High School operates as one of three high schools in Lincoln County School District #2. The school maintains a free and reduced lunch rate of 30.8%, which is slightly below the state average of 32.5%.
Academic performance data shows strong student achievement levels. The school has established itself as a competitive institution within Wyoming’s educational landscape.
The campus provides comprehensive educational services to families in the Star Valley region of western Wyoming.
24. East High School Cheyenne
East High School serves 1,506 students in grades 9-12 in Cheyenne, Wyoming. The school operates within the Laramie County School District #1 as one of five high schools in the district.
The student body reflects diversity with 26% minority enrollment. Additionally, 30% of students qualify as economically disadvantaged.
Academic performance shows mixed results. State test scores indicate 40% of students achieve proficiency in math while 47% reach proficiency in reading.
The school maintains a student-teacher ratio of 15 to 1. East High School offers Advanced Placement courses and International Baccalaureate programs for college-bound students.
Recent rankings place the school in the bottom 50% of Wyoming public high schools. Performance has fluctuated over time, ranging from 19th out of 80 schools in 2012-2013 to 60th out of 80 in recent years.
25. Central High School Casper
Central High School Casper serves students in the Casper, Wyoming area as part of the Natrona County School District #1. The school provides educational opportunities for high school students in the central Casper region.
The school operates within Wyoming’s public education system. Students have access to standard high school curriculum and programs designed to prepare them for post-secondary education or career paths.
Central High School Casper contributes to the educational landscape in Natrona County. The school works alongside other district schools to serve the local community’s educational needs.
The institution focuses on delivering quality education to its student population. Faculty and staff work to support academic achievement and student development throughout the high school years.
Students at Central High School Casper can participate in various academic programs. The school maintains its commitment to providing comprehensive educational services within the Casper school district system.
26. Montgomery High School
Montgomery High School serves students in the southeastern region of Wyoming. The school maintains a smaller enrollment compared to urban districts, which allows for more personalized attention and stronger teacher-student relationships.
The school offers core academic programs including mathematics, science, English, and social studies. Students can participate in various extracurricular activities that complement their classroom learning.
Montgomery High School’s rural location provides unique opportunities for students to engage with their local community. The school emphasizes practical skills alongside traditional academic subjects.
The faculty focuses on preparing students for both college and career pathways. Class sizes remain relatively small, enabling teachers to provide individualized instruction and support.
Students at Montgomery High School benefit from a close-knit school environment where everyone knows each other. This creates a supportive atmosphere for learning and personal growth.
27. Thorne-Rider High School
Thorne-Rider High School serves students in the Dayton area of Sheridan County, Wyoming. The school operates as part of Sheridan County School District #3.
The school maintains a small student body typical of rural Wyoming high schools. This size allows for close teacher-student relationships and individualized attention.
Thorne-Rider offers core academic subjects including English, mathematics, science, and social studies. Students can participate in various extracurricular activities despite the school’s smaller size.
The school serves a rural community where agriculture and ranching play significant roles. This environment influences both the student body composition and available programs.
Athletics programs are available for students interested in competitive sports. The school competes against other small schools in the region.
Thorne-Rider High School provides educational opportunities that prepare students for both college and career paths after graduation.
28. Kemmerer High School
Kemmerer Junior Senior High School serves 269 students in grades 7-12 in Diamondville, Wyoming. The school operates under Lincoln County School District #1.
The institution ranks within the top 30% of all public schools in Wyoming. This performance places it among the higher-performing schools in the state.
The school focuses on providing quality education in a safe environment. Students engage in classroom discussions, hands-on projects, and small-group mentoring opportunities.
Kemmerer Junior Senior High School consistently ranks among Wyoming’s top schools. The faculty and staff maintain high academic standards for their students.
The school offers various academic opportunities beyond traditional classroom instruction. These programs support student success through diverse learning approaches.
29. Powell High School
Powell High School serves 594 students in grades 9-12 in Powell, Wyoming. The school consistently ranks among the top educational institutions in the state.
The school ranks within the top 20% of all public schools in Wyoming. It holds a 4-star rating from SchoolDigger and placed 14th out of 80 Wyoming high schools.
Powell High School demonstrates strong academic performance on standardized tests. The school ranked first in English language arts and second in science and math among large schools on WYTOPP assessments.
Students at Powell High School achieve higher proficiency rates than state averages. The school’s math proficiency score reaches 60% compared to Wyoming’s 43% average.
Reading proficiency stands at 63%, surpassing the statewide average of 52%. Powell High School operates as part of Park County School District #1.
30. Pinedale High School
Pinedale High School ranks 9th out of 80 high schools in Wyoming and maintains a 4-star rating from SchoolDigger. The school consistently performs in the top 20% of Wyoming high schools.
Students at Pinedale High School demonstrate strong proficiency rates on WY-TOPP assessments. Their performance exceeds both district and state averages in English Language Arts, Mathematics, and Science.
The school boasts an impressive graduation rate of 95% or higher. This places it well above the Wyoming state average of 80%.
Pinedale High School serves students in the 82941 zip code area. The school operates under Sublette County School District No. 1, located at 665 N Tyler in Pinedale, Wyoming.
Academic excellence and strong test performance distinguish this institution among Wyoming’s secondary schools.
Factors That Distinguish Wyoming’s Top High Schools
Wyoming’s highest-performing high schools share several distinguishing characteristics that set them apart from their peers. These schools excel through rigorous academic programs, comprehensive college preparation, diverse extracurricular opportunities, and strong community partnerships.
Academic Offerings and Advanced Coursework
Top Wyoming high schools provide extensive Advanced Placement (AP) and dual enrollment programs that allow students to earn college credit while still in high school. These schools typically offer 15-20 AP courses across subjects like calculus, chemistry, biology, English literature, and history.
Many leading schools partner with local colleges and universities to expand their course catalogs beyond what they can offer independently. Students can take college-level courses in specialized fields such as engineering, business, and healthcare.
Key Academic Features:
- STEM Programs: Robotics, computer science, and advanced mathematics courses
- Dual Credit Options: Partnership with University of Wyoming and community colleges
- Specialized Tracks: Pre-med, pre-law, and technical certification programs
- Research Opportunities: Independent study projects and science fair participation
The strongest schools maintain small class sizes, often with student-to-teacher ratios of 12:1 or lower. This allows for personalized attention and advanced instruction methods.
College Preparation and Readiness
Wyoming’s top high schools achieve college readiness rates significantly above the state average through comprehensive guidance programs and test preparation support. These schools typically see 85-95% of graduates pursue post-secondary education.
College counselors at these schools begin working with students in their sophomore year to develop four-year academic plans. They provide SAT and ACT prep courses, often resulting in scores 3-5 points higher than state averages.
College Prep Components:
- Standardized Test Prep: Dedicated SAT/ACT preparation courses
- Application Support: Essay writing workshops and application assistance
- Scholarship Guidance: Help identifying and applying for financial aid
- College Visits: Organized trips to regional universities
Many top schools have established relationships with admissions offices at major universities. This creates pathways for students to attend competitive institutions both in-state and nationally.
Extracurricular and Athletic Programs
Distinguished Wyoming high schools offer 20-30 different clubs, organizations, and athletic teams that serve diverse student interests. These programs help develop leadership skills and provide outlets for creative expression.
Athletic programs at top schools often compete at the state level across multiple sports. Football, basketball, wrestling, and track and field are particularly strong in Wyoming’s leading schools.
Notable Program Areas:
- Academic Competitions: Speech and debate, math contests, science olympiad
- Arts Programs: Theater productions, music ensembles, visual arts exhibitions
- Leadership Development: Student government, National Honor Society, peer tutoring
- Community Service: Volunteer programs and service learning projects
These schools achieve high participation rates, with 70-80% of students involved in at least one extracurricular activity. This engagement correlates with better academic performance and college admission success.
Community and Parental Involvement
Top Wyoming high schools maintain strong partnerships with local businesses, civic organizations, and parent groups that enhance educational opportunities. Parent-teacher organizations at these schools are particularly active in fundraising and volunteer support.
Local business partnerships provide internship opportunities and real-world learning experiences for students. Many schools have established mentorship programs connecting students with community professionals.
Community Engagement Elements:
- Business Partnerships: Internships and job shadowing programs
- Parent Volunteers: Classroom assistance and event coordination
- Alumni Networks: Scholarship funds and career guidance
- Civic Involvement: Student participation in local government and community projects
These schools typically receive additional funding through community foundations and private donations. This financial support enables them to offer programs and resources that might not be available through state funding alone.
Regular communication between schools and families occurs through multiple channels including online portals, newsletters, and face-to-face conferences. This transparency builds trust and encourages continued investment in educational excellence.
Selecting the Right Wyoming High School
Choosing the right high school in Wyoming requires careful consideration of school culture, location factors, and broader measures of student success. Wyoming’s 108 high schools offer diverse environments and opportunities across the state’s unique geographic landscape.
Understanding School Cultures
Wyoming high schools vary significantly in their cultural environments and educational philosophies. Large schools like those in Cheyenne and Casper typically offer more diverse extracurricular activities and specialized programs.
Small rural schools often provide closer student-teacher relationships and tight-knit communities. These environments foster individual attention but may have limited course offerings or sports programs.
Key Cultural Factors to Consider:
- Student-to-teacher ratios
- Available extracurricular activities
- Academic support systems
- School traditions and values
- Peer diversity and demographics
Parents should visit schools during regular hours to observe interactions between students and staff. School websites and social media accounts often reveal the institution’s priorities and community involvement.
Geographic and Transportation Considerations
Wyoming’s vast geography creates unique challenges for high school selection. Rural families may face limited options within reasonable commuting distances.
Transportation Factors:
- Daily commute time and weather conditions
- Bus route availability and reliability
- Boarding options for distant schools
- Access to after-school activities and events
Winter weather conditions significantly impact travel in Wyoming. Schools located along major highways typically offer better accessibility during harsh weather periods.
Some families consider relocating to access preferred schools. Others explore online programs or dual enrollment options to supplement local school offerings.
Evaluating Success Beyond Test Scores
While test scores provide valuable insights, they represent only one measure of school quality. Wyoming schools with strong ACT performance may not necessarily align with every student’s needs and goals.
Alternative Success Indicators:
- College acceptance rates and destinations
- Career readiness programs and certifications
- Alumni achievements and career paths
- Community partnerships and internship opportunities
- Student satisfaction and retention rates
Many Wyoming high schools excel in specialized areas like agriculture, technology, or arts programs. These strengths may not appear in standardized test rankings but offer significant value for certain students.
Employment outcomes for non-college-bound students deserve consideration. Schools with strong vocational programs often provide direct pathways to local industries and skilled trades.
