The 30 Best Public High Schools in Alaska: Top-Ranked Education Options
Alaska’s public high schools provide unique educational opportunities against a backdrop of stunning natural landscapes and diverse communities. From urban centers to remote villages, these institutions prepare students for future success through rigorous academics, specialized programs, and culturally responsive teaching methods.
Families searching for top educational options across The Last Frontier can benefit from understanding which public high schools demonstrate excellence in academic achievement, college preparation, and student support services.
This comprehensive evaluation examines factors including graduation rates, standardized test scores, advanced placement course offerings, and extracurricular opportunities to identify Alaska’s most outstanding secondary schools.
Here are the best 30 public high schools in Alaska:
1. West Anchorage High School
West Anchorage High School stands as a premier educational institution in Alaska’s largest city. Established in 1953, it serves approximately 1,800 students in grades 9-12, making it one of the largest high schools in the state.
The school offers a comprehensive curriculum with numerous Advanced Placement courses and specialized programs. Its International Baccalaureate program attracts academically motivated students from across the Anchorage School District.
West Anchorage boasts strong performance in standardized testing, with scores consistently exceeding state averages. The school maintains a graduation rate of approximately 90%, significantly higher than the state average.
Athletics are a point of pride at West Anchorage, with championship-winning teams in sports such as basketball, cross-country running, and swimming. The school also offers extensive extracurricular activities including debate, robotics, and performing arts.
The diverse student body represents over 30 different languages and cultures, creating a rich learning environment.
2. South Anchorage High School
South Anchorage High School, established in 2004, stands as one of Alaska’s premier educational institutions. Located in the southern part of Anchorage, this school serves approximately 1,400 students in grades 9-12.
The school boasts impressive academic credentials with a graduation rate of 91%, significantly above the state average. Students at South Anchorage consistently perform well on standardized tests, with proficiency rates in math and reading that exceed both district and state averages.
The curriculum offers 17 Advanced Placement courses and a robust International Baccalaureate program. These challenging academic pathways prepare students for college-level work while still in high school.
South Anchorage also excels in athletics, having won numerous state championships in sports including football, volleyball, and cross-country. The school’s commitment to well-rounded education extends to its award-winning music programs and diverse extracurricular activities.
3. Bettye Davis East Anchorage High School
Bettye Davis East Anchorage High School stands as one of Alaska’s premier public education institutions. Located in Anchorage, it serves a diverse student population of approximately 2,000 students from grades 9-12.
The school offers a robust academic program including Advanced Placement courses, International Baccalaureate options, and specialized STEM pathways. Students consistently perform above state averages on standardized tests and college entrance exams.
Beyond academics, East High boasts strong athletics and extracurricular activities. Their championship-winning teams in basketball, cross-country running, and debate have earned statewide recognition.
The school was renamed in 2018 to honor Bettye Davis, a pioneering Alaska legislator and education advocate. This change reflects the institution’s commitment to diversity and community values.
Faculty members at East High maintain high expectations while providing supportive learning environments. Many teachers hold advanced degrees and participate in ongoing professional development.
4. Service High School
Service High School in Anchorage consistently ranks among Alaska’s top educational institutions. Founded in 1971, it serves approximately 1,500 students in grades 9-12 and boasts a student-teacher ratio of 18:1.
The school offers a comprehensive curriculum including Advanced Placement courses, dual enrollment opportunities with local colleges, and specialized programs in STEM fields. Its robust athletics program includes basketball, football, hockey, and cross-country skiing.
Service High emphasizes academic excellence while developing well-rounded students through various extracurricular activities. The school maintains a graduation rate above the state average at approximately 88%.
Students benefit from modern facilities including updated science labs, a performing arts center, and athletic fields. The school’s diverse student body represents Anchorage’s multicultural community.
Service High School has produced numerous notable alumni who have succeeded in professional fields, athletics, and public service throughout Alaska and beyond.
5. Robert Service High School
Robert Service High School, located in Anchorage, stands as one of Alaska’s premier public educational institutions. Established in 1971, the school serves approximately 1,600 students in grades 9-12, making it one of the larger high schools in the state.
The school offers a comprehensive curriculum with numerous Advanced Placement courses and college preparation programs. Students at Robert Service consistently score above state averages on standardized tests and college entrance exams.
Athletic programs at Robert Service High School are particularly strong, with competitive teams in sports including football, basketball, cross-country skiing, and hockey. The school has claimed multiple state championships across various sports categories.
The campus features modern facilities including updated science laboratories, a performing arts center, and extensive athletic fields. A dedicated teaching staff maintains small class sizes when possible, allowing for personalized attention.
6. Dimond High School
Dimond High School, located in Anchorage, consistently ranks among Alaska’s top public high schools. Established in 1967, it serves approximately 1,600 students in grades 9-12 and is part of the Anchorage School District.
The school offers a robust Advanced Placement program with over 15 AP courses available to students. These challenging academic options help prepare students for college-level work while still in high school.
Dimond boasts strong performance in standardized testing, with scores typically exceeding both state and national averages. The school maintains a graduation rate of approximately 90%, which stands well above the state average.
Athletics are a significant part of Dimond’s culture, with teams regularly competing for state championships. The school’s extracurricular activities include award-winning debate teams, music programs, and various student clubs that enhance the educational experience.
7. Wasilla High School
Wasilla High School, located in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough, serves approximately 950 students in grades 9-12. The school maintains a solid academic reputation with a graduation rate that exceeds the state average.
The curriculum at Wasilla High includes a range of Advanced Placement courses and career-focused programs. Students can participate in various STEM initiatives that prepare them for college and future careers in technical fields.
Athletics play a significant role in the school culture, with the Warriors competing in numerous sports including football, basketball, and hockey. The school has earned several state championships across various athletic programs.
Wasilla High School also offers robust extracurricular activities including debate, performing arts, and student government. These programs help develop well-rounded students with strong leadership skills.
The school’s dedicated faculty maintains an average student-to-teacher ratio of 18:1, allowing for personalized attention.
8. Colony High School
Colony High School serves students in grades 9-12 in Palmer, Alaska. Founded in 1995, it has established itself as one of the top schools in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District.
The school enrolls approximately 1,100 students and maintains a favorable student-to-teacher ratio of 18:1. This allows for more personalized attention and stronger student-teacher relationships.
Colony High offers a comprehensive curriculum including Advanced Placement courses, career and technical education programs, and various extracurricular activities. Their AP program includes options in subjects like calculus, biology, literature, and U.S. history.
Athletics are an important part of the Colony Knights community, with teams competing in state tournaments across multiple sports. The school also boasts strong performing arts programs in music, theater, and visual arts.
Students at Colony consistently score above state averages on standardized tests and have solid college acceptance rates.
9. Palmer High School
Palmer High School, serving grades 9-12, is located in the Mat-Su Borough School District. The school has built a strong reputation for academic excellence while maintaining a close-knit community atmosphere.
With approximately 900 students, Palmer High offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes Advanced Placement courses and career technical education programs. Their college preparation resources have helped students gain admission to competitive universities across the country.
The school boasts strong athletic programs, with their football and wrestling teams frequently competing at state championships. Their music and arts departments are equally impressive, providing students with opportunities to explore their creative talents.
Palmer High School takes pride in maintaining a balance between academic rigor and extracurricular involvement. Teachers are known for their dedication to student success and creating a supportive learning environment.
Parent involvement remains high at Palmer, contributing to the school’s overall positive culture and student achievement.
10. West Valley High School
West Valley High School, located in Fairbanks, serves approximately 1,000 students in grades 9-12. The school maintains a solid academic reputation with a curriculum that balances college preparatory courses with technical and vocational programs.
West Valley offers a range of Advanced Placement courses and has consistent proficiency rates above the state average in standardized testing. The student-teacher ratio of 18:1 allows for personalized attention while still providing diverse educational experiences.
The school boasts strong extracurricular programs, particularly in debate, music, and athletics. Their basketball and cross-country skiing teams have earned state recognition in recent years.
West Valley prides itself on community involvement and maintains partnerships with the University of Alaska Fairbanks. These connections provide students with unique opportunities for dual enrollment and early college experiences.
The school’s graduation rate consistently exceeds 90%, with a significant percentage of graduates pursuing higher education.
11. Juneau-Douglas High School
Juneau-Douglas High School serves students in grades 9-12 in Alaska’s capital city. The school maintains a strong academic program with an enrollment of approximately 600 students.
Teachers at Juneau-Douglas emphasize college preparation while offering numerous Advanced Placement courses. The school boasts a graduation rate above the state average, with many graduates continuing to higher education.
Athletics are an important part of the school culture, with the Crimson Bears competing in various sports including basketball, swimming, and track. The school also offers a robust selection of extracurricular activities ranging from debate team to music programs.
Juneau-Douglas benefits from its unique location, incorporating local Tlingit culture and coastal environmental studies into its curriculum. The school’s proximity to government offices also provides students with unique internship opportunities.
Community partnerships strengthen the educational experience, connecting students with local businesses and organizations for real-world learning experiences.
12. Thunder Mountain High School
Thunder Mountain High School, established in 2008, serves students in Juneau, Alaska. Located in the Mendenhall Valley, it provides education for grades 9-12 and is part of the Juneau School District.
The school maintains a solid academic program with a variety of Advanced Placement courses and electives. Its curriculum emphasizes college preparation while also offering career and technical education pathways to accommodate diverse student interests.
Thunder Mountain’s extracurricular activities include strong athletic programs, with competitive teams in basketball, swimming, football, and volleyball. The school also boasts active clubs in robotics, debate, and performing arts.
Faculty members at Thunder Mountain are known for their dedication to student success, with many holding advanced degrees in their teaching fields. The school maintains a favorable student-to-teacher ratio, allowing for personalized instruction.
The campus features modern facilities including well-equipped science labs, a spacious gymnasium, and a state-of-the-art auditorium for performances.
13. Homer High School
Homer High School serves approximately 400 students in grades 9-12 in the scenic coastal community of Homer, Alaska. The school maintains a solid academic reputation with a graduation rate consistently above the state average.
Teachers at Homer High offer a robust curriculum including Advanced Placement courses and specialized programs in marine science, reflecting the school’s unique coastal location. The school’s partnership with Kachemak Bay Campus of Kenai Peninsula College allows students to earn dual credit.
Homer High’s extracurricular activities showcase strong athletic programs in football, basketball, and cross-country skiing. The school also boasts award-winning debate and music programs that regularly compete at state level.
The campus features modern facilities including a well-equipped library, science labs, and a performing arts center. Community involvement remains high, with active parent organizations supporting various school initiatives.
14. Kenai Central High School
Kenai Central High School, located on the Kenai Peninsula, serves approximately 450 students in grades 9-12. The school maintains a solid academic reputation with a student-to-teacher ratio of 15:1, allowing for more personalized instruction.
The curriculum at Kenai Central offers a range of Advanced Placement courses and dual enrollment options with Kenai Peninsula College. Students consistently perform above the state average on standardized assessments, with particularly strong showings in mathematics and science.
Beyond academics, Kenai Central boasts competitive athletics programs, including their renowned cross-country running and skiing teams. The school’s Kardinals compete in various sports throughout the Alaska School Activities Association calendar.
Arts education thrives at Kenai Central with programs in band, choir, and visual arts. The school also emphasizes career and technical education through offerings in culinary arts, automotive technology, and construction trades.
15. Seward High School
Seward High School serves students in grades 9-12 in the coastal community of Seward, Alaska. Located on the Kenai Peninsula, the school offers students a unique educational experience with views of Resurrection Bay and the surrounding mountains.
With approximately 200 students, Seward High maintains small class sizes that allow for personalized attention. The school boasts a dedicated faculty committed to academic excellence while preparing students for future endeavors.
Seward High School offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes advanced placement courses and dual-credit options through partnerships with state colleges. The school’s Career and Technical Education programs are particularly strong, providing real-world skills in marine technology and other fields relevant to the local economy.
Athletics are an important part of student life at Seward High, with competitive teams in basketball, cross-country running, and other sports. The school’s extracurricular activities also include numerous clubs that take advantage of Seward’s natural setting.
16. Sitka High School
Sitka High School serves as a cornerstone of education in the coastal community of Sitka, Alaska. Established in 1927, the school accommodates approximately 350 students in grades 9-12.
The school boasts a solid academic program with a student-to-teacher ratio of 15:1, allowing for personalized instruction. Students at Sitka High consistently perform above the state average on standardized tests, with particularly strong showings in mathematics and science.
Sitka High offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities including championship-caliber basketball and wrestling programs. The school’s debate team and music department have earned recognition at state competitions.
The campus features modern facilities including a well-equipped library, science laboratories, and a recently renovated gymnasium. The school maintains strong connections with the local community, incorporating Southeast Alaska Native culture and maritime industries into its curriculum.
17. Kodiak High School
Kodiak High School serves students on Kodiak Island, providing education to approximately 600 students in grades 9-12. The school maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 17:1, allowing for personalized attention in the classroom.
Located in the largest community on Alaska’s Kodiak Island, this public high school offers a comprehensive curriculum including Advanced Placement courses and career technical education programs. The school particularly excels in its marine science and fisheries programs, leveraging its unique coastal location.
Athletics are a strong component of student life at Kodiak High, with competitive teams in basketball, cross-country, volleyball, and wrestling. The Kodiak Bears regularly compete against other schools across the state.
The school’s diverse student population reflects the multicultural makeup of the island community, which includes significant Alaska Native and Filipino populations. This diversity enriches the educational experience and prepares students for global citizenship.
18. Petersburg High School
Petersburg High School, located in the scenic fishing community of Petersburg, Alaska, serves approximately 150 students in grades 9-12. The school maintains a strong academic program while embracing its unique island location on Mitkof Island in Southeast Alaska.
The student-to-teacher ratio of 12:1 allows for personalized instruction and strong relationships between educators and students. Petersburg High School offers a variety of advanced placement courses and college preparatory programs despite its relatively small size.
Students at Petersburg High participate in numerous extracurricular activities, with fishing and marine-focused programs reflecting the community’s heritage. The school’s Viking mascot represents the town’s Norwegian roots and cultural history.
Athletics are an important part of student life, with competitive teams in basketball, volleyball, wrestling, and cross-country. The school regularly sends graduates to quality colleges across Alaska and the Pacific Northwest.
19. Valdez High School
Valdez High School serves approximately 160 students in grades 9-12 in the coastal community of Valdez, Alaska. The school maintains a solid student-to-teacher ratio of 12:1, allowing for more personalized educational experiences.
The curriculum at Valdez High School features a balanced approach to academics with strong STEM offerings alongside arts and humanities. Students have access to several AP courses and dual enrollment options through partnerships with regional colleges.
Extracurricular activities reflect the unique Alaskan setting, with competitive skiing, outdoor education programs, and marine science clubs complementing traditional sports teams. The school boasts modern facilities including a well-equipped science lab and technology center.
The graduation rate at Valdez High consistently exceeds the state average, with approximately 90% of students receiving their diplomas. College acceptance rates are strong, with many graduates pursuing higher education at Alaska universities and beyond.
20. Skagway School
Skagway School serves the remote community of Skagway in southeastern Alaska, offering education from kindergarten through twelfth grade. With approximately 75 students total, this small public school maintains an exceptional student-to-teacher ratio of about 10:1, allowing for personalized instruction.
The school takes advantage of its unique location in a historic Gold Rush town, incorporating local history and environment into its curriculum. Students benefit from experiential learning opportunities that connect classroom instruction to the surrounding natural and cultural resources.
Skagway School has consistently achieved above-average academic performance metrics compared to other Alaska schools. The graduation rate typically exceeds 90%, with many graduates continuing to post-secondary education.
The school features updated technology infrastructure and provides students with access to various extracurricular activities despite its small size. Athletic programs, arts education, and outdoor education are integral parts of the Skagway School experience.
21. Bristol Bay School
Bristol Bay School, located in Naknek, Alaska, serves students in grades K-12 and is part of the Bristol Bay Borough School District. The school’s remote location along the Bristol Bay coastline provides a unique educational setting for its students.
With a small student population of approximately 50-70 students, Bristol Bay School offers personalized attention with low student-to-teacher ratios. This intimate learning environment allows for individualized instruction and close relationships between faculty and students.
The school places strong emphasis on academic achievement while incorporating important cultural aspects of the region. Students participate in various programs related to the area’s fishing industry and Native Alaskan culture.
Bristol Bay School offers college preparatory courses alongside vocational training opportunities. The curriculum integrates technology and traditional education approaches to prepare students for diverse post-graduation paths.
The school’s sports teams, known as the Angels, participate in several interscholastic athletic competitions throughout the region.
22. Nome-Beltz Junior/Senior High School
Nome-Beltz Junior/Senior High School serves students in Nome, Alaska, providing education for grades 7-12. The school offers a comprehensive curriculum that balances academic rigor with practical skills development.
With approximately 250 students, Nome-Beltz maintains smaller class sizes that enable more personalized instruction. The school’s staff includes dedicated teachers who understand the unique challenges of education in rural Alaska.
Nome-Beltz emphasizes cultural relevance in its programming, incorporating Alaska Native heritage and traditions. The school offers various extracurricular activities including sports teams that compete in the Western Conference.
The facility includes updated technology resources, science labs, and a gymnasium that serves as a community gathering space. Nome-Beltz maintains partnerships with local businesses and organizations to provide students with real-world learning opportunities.
Student support services include counseling, career planning, and college preparation resources to help graduates succeed beyond high school.
23. Cordova Jr./Sr. High School
Cordova Jr./Sr. High School serves students in grades 7-12 in the coastal community of Cordova, Alaska. The school maintains a low student-to-teacher ratio of approximately 12:1, allowing for personalized education and strong teacher-student relationships.
The curriculum at Cordova emphasizes both academic excellence and practical skills relevant to the local economy. Students have opportunities to participate in programs related to fishing, marine sciences, and environmental studies, reflecting the community’s connection to Prince William Sound.
Athletic programs at Cordova Jr./Sr. High School include basketball, volleyball, and cross-country running. The school’s teams, known as the Wolverines, compete against other small schools across the state.
Community involvement is a cornerstone of the Cordova educational experience. Local businesses and organizations frequently partner with the school to provide internships, mentoring, and real-world learning experiences.
24. Craig High School
Craig High School serves students in the small fishing community of Craig on Prince of Wales Island in southeastern Alaska. The school maintains a low student-to-teacher ratio which enables personalized attention for each student.
Academic performance at Craig High School consistently meets state standards with particular strengths in mathematics and science. The school offers a range of AP courses despite its remote location.
Extracurricular activities focus on connecting students with their coastal environment. The school’s basketball team is a source of community pride and has performed well in regional competitions.
Craig High School emphasizes cultural education with programs that incorporate local Tlingit traditions and knowledge. Career and technical education programs prepare students for both college pathways and immediate employment in local industries.
Graduates from Craig High School demonstrate strong critical thinking skills and community involvement. The school’s partnership with the University of Alaska Southeast provides dual enrollment opportunities for qualified students.
25. Metlakatla High School
Metlakatla High School serves students in the unique island community of Metlakatla, located on Annette Island in southeast Alaska. The school is part of the Annette Island School District and provides education for approximately 100 students in grades 7-12.
The curriculum at Metlakatla High School balances academic rigor with cultural relevance, incorporating aspects of the local Tsimshian culture. Students have access to both college preparatory courses and vocational training programs that prepare them for various post-graduation paths.
Athletic programs are an important part of student life at Metlakatla High School, with basketball being particularly prominent. The school’s teams, known as the Chiefs, compete against other schools throughout southeast Alaska.
Community involvement is a strength of Metlakatla High School, with local elders and organizations frequently participating in school activities and mentorship programs.
26. Dillingham Middle/High School
Dillingham Middle/High School serves students in grades 7-12 in the coastal community of Dillingham, Alaska. Located in the Bristol Bay region, this public school provides education to approximately 150 students annually.
The school offers a comprehensive curriculum that balances academic requirements with programs relevant to the region’s cultural heritage. Its small class sizes enable personalized attention, with a student-to-teacher ratio that promotes individualized learning experiences.
Dillingham Middle/High School has made strides in incorporating technology into its classrooms, providing students access to digital resources despite its remote location. The school maintains several computer labs and has expanded its online learning options in recent years.
Athletics play an important role in student life, with basketball and wrestling being particularly popular. The school also emphasizes Native Alaskan studies, helping students connect with local traditions while preparing for college or careers.
27. Unalaska City School
Unalaska City School serves students in the remote Aleutian Islands community of Unalaska, Alaska. The school provides education for approximately 400 students in grades K-12, with the high school portion maintaining consistently solid academic performance metrics.
Students at Unalaska City School benefit from small class sizes that average 15-18 students per classroom. This allows for personalized attention and stronger teacher-student relationships.
The school offers a range of advanced courses and electives despite its isolated location. Its graduation rate exceeds the state average, with approximately 90% of students earning diplomas within four years.
Unalaska City School places emphasis on both academic achievement and cultural education. The curriculum incorporates local Aleut traditions and knowledge, reflecting the unique heritage of the region.
Extracurricular activities include competitive sports teams that regularly travel to mainland Alaska for competitions, demonstrating the school’s commitment to providing well-rounded educational experiences.
28. Galena Interior Learning Academy
Galena Interior Learning Academy (GILA) stands as a unique residential public high school located in the remote city of Galena along the Yukon River. The school serves students from across Alaska, particularly those from rural villages seeking additional educational opportunities.
GILA offers a comprehensive curriculum with a strong focus on both academic and vocational education. Students can pursue traditional college-preparatory courses alongside specialized programs in aviation, construction trades, health careers, and culinary arts.
The residential aspect of GILA creates a tight-knit community where students live on campus during the academic year. This arrangement provides structured study time and access to resources that might be limited in students’ home communities.
With relatively small class sizes, GILA teachers can provide personalized attention to students. The school’s graduation rate has improved significantly over recent years, highlighting its commitment to student success.
29. Mt. Edgecumbe High School
Mt. Edgecumbe High School is a public boarding school located in Sitka, Alaska. Founded in 1947, it serves students from across the state, particularly those from rural communities with limited educational options.
The school offers a comprehensive college preparatory curriculum with unique programs focusing on Alaska Native heritage and culture. Students benefit from small class sizes and dedicated faculty who provide individualized attention.
Mt. Edgecumbe places strong emphasis on leadership development and community service. The school maintains solid academic performance metrics while creating opportunities for students to explore career pathways in fields relevant to Alaska’s economy.
Extracurricular activities include traditional sports programs and culturally significant activities like Native dance. The residential nature of the school creates a tight-knit community where students develop independence and strong social bonds.
30. Haines High School
Haines High School serves students in grades 9-12 in the coastal community of Haines, Alaska. The school maintains a small student body of approximately 100 students, fostering a close-knit educational environment.
The school offers a comprehensive curriculum including core academic subjects, electives, and career and technical education programs. Students benefit from a student-to-teacher ratio of about 15:1, allowing for personalized attention and support.
Haines High School participates in various extracurricular activities including basketball, wrestling, and cross-country running. The school’s teams, known as the Glacier Bears, compete against other schools in Southeast Alaska.
The facility includes modern classrooms, a gymnasium, and access to technology resources. Community involvement plays an important role in supporting educational initiatives at the school.
Graduates from Haines High School regularly pursue further education at colleges and universities throughout Alaska and beyond.
Educational Standards and Curriculum
Alaska’s top public high schools maintain rigorous academic standards while adapting to the state’s unique educational needs. These schools balance core curriculum requirements with innovative approaches to prepare students for college and careers in the 21st century.
Statewide Educational Frameworks
Alaska follows the Alaska Content and Performance Standards, which define what students should know and be able to do at each grade level. These standards align with but are not identical to Common Core, allowing for Alaska-specific adaptations.
The state’s top public high schools consistently exceed these baseline requirements. Many offer Advanced Placement (AP) courses, International Baccalaureate (IB) programs, and dual enrollment options with universities.
Assessment in these schools follows the Performance Evaluation for Alaska’s Schools (PEAKS) system, measuring student achievement in reading, writing, mathematics, and science. The highest-performing schools typically score 15-20% above state averages on these assessments.
Graduation requirements include:
- 4 credits in English
- 3 credits in mathematics
- 3 credits in social studies
- 2-3 credits in science
- 1 credit in physical education
STEM and Arts Integration
Alaska’s premier high schools have embraced robust STEM education aligned with workforce needs in engineering, natural resources, and technology sectors. Many schools partner with organizations like the Alaska Native Science and Engineering Program (ANSEP) to provide advanced opportunities.
Innovative curriculum approaches include project-based learning centered on real-world applications relevant to Alaska. For example, students might analyze climate change impacts on local ecosystems or develop technology solutions for rural communities.
The arts remain essential in comprehensive education. Top schools integrate visual arts, music, and cultural studies that reflect Alaska’s diverse heritage. Many winning schools maintain strong cultural programs highlighting Native Alaskan traditions alongside contemporary arts education.
Digital literacy and coding have become curriculum priorities, with schools implementing technology standards across subject areas. This integration helps prepare students for diverse career pathways in Alaska’s evolving economy.
Extracurricular Activities and Student Life
Alaska’s top public high schools offer diverse opportunities beyond academics that enrich student experiences and develop well-rounded individuals. These programs help students build leadership skills, foster teamwork, and discover new interests during their formative years.
Sports Programs
Alaska’s leading public high schools maintain robust athletic programs despite challenging weather conditions. Most top schools participate in the Alaska School Activities Association, competing in traditional sports like basketball, volleyball, and cross-country skiing. West Anchorage High School and Dimond High School regularly dominate state championships in basketball and swimming.
Many schools have developed strong hockey programs, reflecting the state’s winter culture. South Anchorage High School has invested significantly in athletic facilities, including all-weather turf fields that extend the usable season for outdoor sports.
Northern schools like Lathrop High in Fairbanks have adapted with excellent indoor facilities to accommodate training during harsh winters. These athletic programs help students develop discipline and teamwork while representing their schools with pride.
Clubs and Organizations
Top Alaska high schools offer a diverse range of clubs that cater to various student interests. Academic competitions like Debate, Model UN, and Science Olympiad are popular, with schools like West Valley High consistently sending teams to national competitions.
Cultural clubs celebrate Alaska’s diverse heritage, with Native Alaskan Student Associations being particularly active in preserving indigenous traditions. Many schools support robust performing arts programs, including theater, choir, and band.
STEM-focused clubs have grown significantly, with robotics teams from Eagle River and Service High Schools achieving recognition in state and national competitions. Outdoor adventure clubs are uniquely Alaskan, teaching wilderness skills and environmental stewardship.
Student government organizations provide leadership opportunities while community service clubs partner with local organizations to address community needs. These extracurricular options allow students to explore interests beyond the classroom while building valuable skills.
