The 30 Best Public High Schools in Indiana: Top-Ranked Educational Institutions

Education quality varies significantly across Indiana’s public high schools, affecting college readiness and future opportunities for students. Several metrics help identify top-performing schools, including graduation rates, college enrollment percentages, standardized test scores, and advanced course offerings.

These rankings of Indiana’s 30 best public high schools provide valuable information for families making important educational decisions.

The list considers both academic excellence and factors like student-teacher ratios, extracurricular opportunities, and college preparation resources. Understanding these distinctions can help parents navigate the public education landscape in Indiana.

Here are the 30 best public high schools in Indiana:

1. Carmel High School

Carmel High School stands as the premier public high school in Indiana for the 2024-2025 academic year. Located in the affluent suburb of Carmel, the school serves approximately 5,400 students in grades 9-12.

The school boasts exceptional academic achievements with a 98% graduation rate and over 90% of students pursuing higher education. Carmel High offers more than 30 Advanced Placement courses and numerous dual-credit options through partnerships with state universities.

Athletics excellence is another hallmark of Carmel High School. The school has won over 150 state championships across various sports, including swimming, which has earned national recognition.

The arts programs at Carmel are equally impressive. Their performing arts department features award-winning band, orchestra, choir, and theater programs that regularly compete at national levels.

With state-of-the-art facilities spanning a 55-acre campus, Carmel High School provides students with numerous resources for academic and extracurricular success.

2. Zionsville Community High School

Zionsville Community High School stands as one of Indiana’s academic powerhouses with impressive educational outcomes. Located in the affluent suburb of Zionsville, the school serves approximately 2,100 students in grades 9-12.

The school boasts a 97% graduation rate and regularly sends over 90% of its graduates to four-year colleges. Its rigorous academic programs include numerous Advanced Placement courses, with students consistently achieving high AP pass rates.

Beyond academics, Zionsville excels in extracurricular activities. Their athletic programs regularly compete for state championships, particularly in soccer, swimming, and cross country.

The school’s facilities are modern and well-maintained, featuring state-of-the-art science labs, a performing arts center, and extensive athletic facilities. Student-teacher ratios remain favorable at approximately 18:1, enabling personalized attention.

Zionsville’s commitment to STEM education is evident through specialized programs and partnerships with local technology companies.

3. West Lafayette Junior-Senior High School

West Lafayette Junior-Senior High School consistently ranks among Indiana’s top public schools. Located in West Lafayette, it serves students in grades 7-12 and maintains an impressive student-to-teacher ratio of 17:1.

The school boasts exceptional academic achievements with an Advanced Placement participation rate of over 85%. Students regularly excel in mathematics and science competitions at both state and national levels.

West Lafayette offers a comprehensive curriculum with numerous honors and AP courses. The school’s average SAT score of 1310 significantly exceeds both state and national averages.

Beyond academics, the school provides diverse extracurricular activities including championship-winning athletic programs and award-winning performing arts. The school’s debate team and science olympiad have achieved notable success in recent competitions.

West Lafayette’s graduation rate stands at an impressive 98%, with more than 90% of graduates pursuing higher education.

4. Signature School

Signature School in Evansville stands as Indiana’s first charter high school, founded in 2002. The institution has consistently earned national recognition for its rigorous academic programs.

Signature School offers a challenging International Baccalaureate curriculum alongside Advanced Placement courses. This combination provides students with exceptional preparation for higher education.

The school maintains small class sizes, allowing for personalized instruction and stronger teacher-student relationships. Most graduates continue to prestigious universities with substantial scholarship offers.

Signature School’s performance metrics are impressive, with consistently high standardized test scores and graduation rates above 99%. The school’s city center location provides unique opportunities for community engagement and real-world learning experiences.

Students benefit from a diverse range of extracurricular activities despite the school’s smaller size. The competitive admissions process reflects its reputation as one of Indiana’s premier educational institutions.

5. Herron High School

Herron High School, located in Indianapolis, has earned its place among Indiana’s top public high schools. The school follows a classical curriculum that emphasizes liberal arts education, setting it apart from many traditional public schools.

Founded in 2006, Herron has consistently maintained high academic standards. Its students regularly achieve outstanding test scores, with proficiency rates significantly above state averages in both mathematics and language arts.

The school occupies a historic building in the Old Northside neighborhood, providing a unique educational environment. Class sizes remain relatively small, allowing for personalized attention and deeper engagement with the challenging curriculum.

Herron’s college preparation focus has resulted in impressive graduation rates and college acceptance statistics. Many graduates move on to prestigious universities throughout the country.

The school also offers numerous extracurricular activities, from competitive athletics to arts programs, despite its academic intensity.

6. Fishers High School

Located in Fishers, Indiana, Fishers High School serves approximately 3,700 students in grades 9-12. The school consistently ranks among the top educational institutions in the state with a graduation rate exceeding 95%.

Fishers High School offers a comprehensive curriculum including numerous Advanced Placement courses and dual credit opportunities. Their robust STEM program provides students with valuable experiences in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

The school maintains exceptional extracurricular programs spanning athletics, performing arts, and academic competitions. Their award-winning marching band and competitive sports teams regularly earn state recognition.

Students benefit from modern facilities including specialized labs, a performing arts center, and athletic complexes. The school emphasizes college readiness, with the majority of graduates pursuing higher education.

Fishers High School’s dedicated faculty maintains a favorable student-to-teacher ratio, allowing for personalized educational experiences and strong academic outcomes.

7. Hamilton Southeastern High School

Hamilton Southeastern High School in Fishers, Indiana serves approximately 3,400 students in grades 9-12. The school maintains a strong academic reputation with a graduation rate consistently above 95%.

Students at Hamilton Southeastern benefit from a comprehensive curriculum that includes numerous Advanced Placement courses and dual credit options. The school’s average SAT score typically exceeds both state and national averages.

Beyond academics, Hamilton Southeastern offers extensive extracurricular activities spanning athletics, performing arts, and special interest clubs. Their athletic teams, known as the Royals, compete in the Hoosier Crossroads Conference and have won multiple state championships.

The school features modern facilities including well-equipped science labs, a performing arts center, and recently renovated athletic facilities. Hamilton Southeastern maintains strong community partnerships that enhance educational opportunities for students through internships and mentorship programs.

8. Guerin Catholic High School *(Private School)

Guerin Catholic High School stands as a prestigious private institution located in Noblesville, Indiana. Founded in 2004, this Roman Catholic high school has quickly established itself as one of the top educational options in the state.

The school serves approximately 800 students in grades 9-12, maintaining a favorable student-to-teacher ratio that allows for personalized education. This focus on individual attention contributes to its impressive academic performance metrics.

Guerin Catholic boasts a rigorous college preparatory curriculum with numerous Advanced Placement and honors courses. The school reports a 99% college attendance rate among its graduates, with many students being accepted to selective universities.

Beyond academics, Guerin Catholic offers comprehensive athletic programs and extracurricular activities. Their “Golden Eagles” compete in various sports within the Indiana High School Athletic Association.

The school’s commitment to faith-based education and service learning adds another dimension to its educational approach, helping students develop both intellectually and spiritually.

9. Munster High School

Munster High School maintains a stellar reputation in northwest Indiana for its academic excellence and well-rounded education. Located in Munster, the school serves approximately 1,500 students in grades 9-12.

The school boasts impressive academic statistics with a 95% graduation rate and strong college readiness metrics. Its Advanced Placement program offers over 20 AP courses, with student participation rates consistently exceeding state averages.

Munster’s students regularly achieve exceptional standardized test scores, with average SAT scores around 1230. The school’s commitment to STEM education is evident through its robotics program and science olympiad teams that compete at state and national levels.

Beyond academics, Munster excels in extracurricular activities. The school’s speech and debate team, athletic programs, and performing arts departments have earned numerous regional and state recognitions.

Faculty members at Munster typically hold advanced degrees, with a student-to-teacher ratio of approximately 18:1.

10. Park Tudor School *(Private School)

Park Tudor School is a prestigious private educational institution located in Indianapolis, Indiana. Established in 1902, it has built a strong reputation for academic excellence and comprehensive student development.

The school offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum with numerous Advanced Placement courses and consistently achieves high standardized test scores. Its average SAT score ranks among the highest in the state, with over 95% of graduates proceeding to four-year colleges.

Park Tudor maintains small class sizes with a 7:1 student-teacher ratio, allowing for personalized instruction and mentorship. The 55-acre campus features state-of-the-art facilities including modern science labs, athletic fields, and a performing arts center.

The school excels in extracurricular activities, winning multiple state championships in sports and debate. Park Tudor also emphasizes community service, requiring students to complete volunteer hours before graduation.

11. Culver Academies

Culver Academies is a prestigious private boarding school located in Culver, Indiana. Though technically private, it’s often included in rankings of top public schools due to its exceptional academic reputation and outcomes.

Established in 1894, the school sits on a picturesque 1,800-acre campus alongside Lake Maxinkuckee. Culver is known for its rigorous college-preparatory curriculum and impressive 8:1 student-to-teacher ratio.

The school features two distinct programs: Culver Military Academy for boys and Culver Girls Academy. Both maintain strong traditions while offering modern educational approaches and extensive extracurricular activities.

Culver boasts exceptional facilities including state-of-the-art science labs, an equestrian center, and comprehensive athletic complexes. Their graduates consistently matriculate to top universities across the country.

The school’s leadership programs are particularly noteworthy, with emphasis on character development alongside academic excellence.

12. Crown Point High School

Crown Point High School serves students in Crown Point, Indiana, and has established itself as a top educational institution in the state. The school boasts strong academic programs with a wide range of Advanced Placement offerings that challenge students to excel.

Athletics are a point of pride at Crown Point, with competitive teams in multiple sports. Their facilities include modern science labs, a performing arts center, and well-maintained athletic fields.

The school maintains a graduation rate above the state average, with many graduates continuing to prestigious colleges and universities. Crown Point High School emphasizes college readiness through its rigorous curriculum and dedicated counseling services.

Students benefit from numerous extracurricular activities including debate, robotics, and various clubs. The school’s commitment to both academic excellence and character development has earned it recognition among Indiana’s top public high schools.

13. Homestead Senior High School

Homestead Senior High School, located in Fort Wayne, serves as part of the Southwest Allen County Schools district. This well-respected institution consistently ranks among Indiana’s top academic performers with strong standardized test scores.

The school offers a comprehensive curriculum with numerous Advanced Placement courses and dual credit opportunities. Their STEM programs are particularly notable, preparing students for college-level work in science and technology fields.

Homestead’s extracurricular activities are equally impressive, with championship-winning athletic teams and award-winning performing arts programs. The school’s debate team and academic competition groups regularly achieve state recognition.

With modern facilities including updated science labs and a state-of-the-art media center, Homestead provides students with excellent learning environments. The school maintains a graduation rate well above the state average.

Homestead also prioritizes college readiness, with over 85% of graduates pursuing higher education after completion.

14. Valparaiso High School

Valparaiso High School serves grades 9-12 in Valparaiso, Indiana, with approximately 2,100 students enrolled. The school boasts a strong academic reputation with a graduation rate of 95%, exceeding the state average.

Students at Valparaiso High School can choose from 15 Advanced Placement courses and several dual credit options through partnerships with local universities. The school maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 18:1, allowing for personalized attention in the classroom.

Valparaiso’s athletic programs have earned numerous regional and state titles, particularly in swimming, cross country, and soccer. The school also offers a comprehensive arts program including award-winning band, orchestra, and theater departments.

College readiness is a priority, with 85% of graduates pursuing higher education. The school’s commitment to STEM education is evident through specialized labs and technology integration across the curriculum.

15. Jasper High School

Jasper High School, located in Dubois County, has established itself as one of Indiana’s premier educational institutions. The school serves approximately 1,100 students in grades 9-12 and maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 18:1, allowing for personalized attention.

Academic excellence is a hallmark of Jasper High School, with the institution consistently achieving above-average proficiency rates in core subjects. Their Advanced Placement program offers numerous courses, with a high percentage of students earning qualifying scores on AP exams.

The school’s athletic programs have garnered statewide recognition, particularly in baseball and basketball. Jasper’s extracurricular offerings extend beyond sports to include a robust performing arts department and various academic clubs.

Community involvement is emphasized at Jasper High School, with students participating in numerous service initiatives throughout the year. The school’s modern facilities include well-equipped science labs, a state-of-the-art media center, and recently renovated athletic facilities.

16. Chesterton Senior High School

Chesterton Senior High School serves students in Chesterton, Indiana, and consistently ranks among the state’s top public schools. The school maintains an impressive academic record with strong scores on standardized tests and advanced placement exams.

With approximately 2,100 students, Chesterton offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes numerous honors and AP courses. Their STEM programs are particularly notable, with specialized tracks in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Chesterton’s extracurricular offerings are equally impressive, featuring award-winning speech and debate teams, music programs, and athletic departments. The school has earned multiple state championships across various sports.

The graduation rate at Chesterton exceeds 95%, with a high percentage of graduates pursuing higher education. College readiness scores place the school significantly above state averages.

Dedicated faculty members provide personalized attention despite the larger student population, creating a supportive learning environment that challenges students to excel.

17. Noblesville High School

Noblesville High School serves approximately 3,200 students in Noblesville, Indiana. The school offers a comprehensive academic program with numerous Advanced Placement and dual credit opportunities.

Students at Noblesville have access to over 200 courses, including specialized STEM programs and career pathways. The school maintains a strong graduation rate of 95%, with many graduates continuing to higher education.

The campus features modern facilities, including state-of-the-art science labs and a performing arts center. Noblesville’s athletic program is well-regarded in the state, competing in the Hoosier Crossroads Conference.

Beyond academics, Noblesville High School offers more than 50 student clubs and organizations. The school has implemented innovative technology integration across the curriculum to prepare students for future careers.

Community involvement is a key component of the Noblesville experience, with numerous service learning opportunities available to students.

18. Penn High School

Penn High School, located in Mishawaka, serves the Penn-Harris-Madison School Corporation with distinction. The school educates approximately 3,600 students in grades 9-12, making it one of the larger high schools in the state.

Penn High School offers a comprehensive curriculum with numerous Advanced Placement courses and dual credit options. Their academic programs consistently produce strong results, with above-average graduation rates and standardized test scores.

The school boasts excellent facilities including modern science labs, a performing arts center, and extensive athletic complexes. Penn’s extracurricular activities span diverse interests from robotics to award-winning music programs.

Athletics are particularly strong at Penn, with competitive teams in multiple sports. The school has won numerous state championships across various athletic programs.

Penn High School maintains strong community partnerships and prepares students effectively for both college and career paths. Their focus on student development extends beyond academics to leadership and citizenship.

19. Avon High School

Avon High School serves approximately 2,800 students in Hendricks County, just west of Indianapolis. The school consistently ranks among Indiana’s top academic performers with strong AP and dual credit offerings.

Students at Avon benefit from a comprehensive curriculum that includes over 20 AP courses and numerous career-focused programs. The school’s graduation rate exceeds 95%, with a significant percentage of graduates continuing to higher education.

Avon’s extracurricular programs are equally impressive, with award-winning performing arts departments. Their marching band has earned multiple state championships and national recognition.

Athletic programs at Avon compete at the IHSAA 6A level, fielding competitive teams across numerous sports. The school’s facilities include modern science labs, a performing arts center, and recently updated athletic facilities.

Avon maintains strong community partnerships that enhance educational opportunities through internships and service learning projects.

20. Bloomington High School North

Bloomington High School North stands as a premier educational institution in Monroe County, consistently demonstrating academic excellence. Established in 1972, the school serves approximately 1,600 students in grades 9-12 and offers a comprehensive curriculum.

The school boasts impressive academic credentials with strong AP participation rates and above-average standardized test scores. Students at Bloomington North benefit from a wide range of advanced courses and specialized programs in STEM, humanities, and the arts.

Extracurricular activities flourish at Bloomington North, with competitive athletic teams and award-winning performing arts programs. The school’s debate team and academic competition groups regularly achieve state recognition.

Bloomington North maintains a student-teacher ratio of approximately 18:1, allowing for personalized attention. The diverse student body represents various socioeconomic backgrounds, creating a rich learning environment that prepares students for success in college and careers.

21. Floyd Central High School

Floyd Central High School serves students in Floyds Knobs, Indiana, part of the New Albany Floyd County Consolidated School Corporation. The school maintains a solid academic reputation with consistently above-average test scores compared to state averages.

Floyd Central offers a diverse curriculum including numerous Advanced Placement courses and dual credit opportunities. Their strong performing arts program has received state and national recognition, particularly in theater and music.

Athletics play an important role at Floyd Central, with competitive teams in multiple sports. The school’s swimming program has historically been especially successful.

The campus features modern facilities including updated science labs, a performing arts center, and well-maintained athletic fields. Student clubs and extracurricular activities span a wide range of interests from academic competitions to community service.

Floyd Central maintains positive community relationships and benefits from active parent involvement through various support organizations.

22. Yorktown High School

Yorktown High School serves approximately 800 students in grades 9-12 in Yorktown, Indiana. The school maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of about 18:1, allowing for personalized attention while fostering academic excellence.

Yorktown is recognized for its strong Advanced Placement program, with several courses available to students seeking college-level challenges. The school’s graduation rate consistently exceeds the state average, with many graduates pursuing higher education.

Athletic programs at Yorktown have earned numerous sectional and regional championships in recent years. The Tigers compete in various sports including basketball, volleyball, swimming, and track and field.

The school’s performing arts department features award-winning band and choir programs. Students also benefit from various extracurricular activities including academic teams, student government, and service clubs.

23. Warsaw Community High School

Warsaw Community High School serves students in grades 9-12 in Warsaw, Indiana. The school maintains a solid academic reputation with a diverse curriculum that prepares students for college and careers.

The school offers a range of Advanced Placement courses and dual credit options through partnerships with local colleges. Students at Warsaw can participate in the school’s strong STEM programs, which include robotics and engineering pathways.

Athletics are a significant part of the school culture, with the Tigers competing in various sports at the state level. The school also boasts comprehensive arts programs including band, choir, and theater.

Warsaw Community High School maintains a student-teacher ratio that allows for personalized attention. The school emphasizes community involvement, with students regularly participating in service projects throughout the Warsaw area.

24. Franklin Central High School

Franklin Central High School in Indianapolis serves over 2,700 students in grades 9-12. The school maintains a solid academic reputation with a graduation rate exceeding the state average.

Franklin Central offers a comprehensive curriculum including numerous Advanced Placement courses and dual credit options through partnerships with local universities. Their STEM programs are particularly strong, with specialized tracks in engineering and computer science.

The school boasts impressive athletic facilities and fields competitive teams in multiple sports. Their “Flashes” have achieved state recognition in basketball, track, and band competitions.

Franklin Central’s extracurricular activities extend beyond sports to include a robust performing arts program, debate team, and various student-led clubs. These opportunities help students develop leadership skills and explore diverse interests.

The school emphasizes college readiness, with dedicated counselors who assist students with course selection and post-secondary planning.

25. Concord High School

Concord High School, located in Elkhart, serves approximately 1,600 students in grades 9-12. The school maintains a solid academic reputation with a curriculum that balances college preparatory courses with career and technical education options.

Concord offers a variety of Advanced Placement courses and dual credit opportunities through partnerships with local colleges. Their student-to-teacher ratio of 19:1 allows for personalized attention while maintaining diverse educational experiences.

The school boasts strong athletic programs, with particular excellence in swimming, soccer, and track. Extracurricular activities include a nationally recognized marching band, robotics team, and debate club.

Concord High School has implemented innovative STEM initiatives and maintains a graduation rate above the state average. The school’s commitment to community service is evident through student-led programs that engage with local organizations.

26. Brownsburg High School

Brownsburg High School serves students in grades 9-12 in Brownsburg, Indiana. The school maintains a strong academic reputation with consistently high graduation rates and standardized test scores above the state average.

Brownsburg offers a comprehensive curriculum including numerous Advanced Placement courses and dual credit opportunities. Their STEM programs are particularly notable, with specialized tracks in engineering, biomedical sciences, and computer science.

The school boasts excellent extracurricular activities, with championship-winning athletic teams and award-winning performing arts programs. Their marching band has received state recognition multiple times in recent competitions.

Brownsburg High School emphasizes college readiness, with dedicated counseling services to help students navigate post-secondary education options. The school maintains strong community partnerships that provide internship and mentorship opportunities for students.

Student-to-teacher ratios remain favorable, allowing for personalized attention and academic support when needed.

27. Center Grove High School

Center Grove High School serves students in Greenwood, Indiana, as part of the Center Grove Community School Corporation. The school consistently ranks among Indiana’s top educational institutions with its strong academic programs and extracurricular offerings.

Students at Center Grove benefit from a comprehensive curriculum that includes numerous Advanced Placement courses and dual credit opportunities. The school maintains impressive graduation rates and standardized test scores that exceed state averages.

Center Grove’s athletic programs have earned statewide recognition, with multiple state championships in various sports. The football program has been particularly successful in recent years.

The school’s performing arts department also excels, with award-winning band, choir, and theater programs. Center Grove offers a wide range of clubs and activities that help students develop leadership skills and explore their interests.

The campus features modern facilities including well-equipped science labs, athletic fields, and performing arts spaces.

28. Columbus North High School

Columbus North High School serves students in Columbus, Indiana, offering a comprehensive educational experience with strong academic and extracurricular programs. The school maintains a reputation for academic excellence with a diverse curriculum that includes Advanced Placement and dual credit courses.

Students at Columbus North benefit from modern facilities and technology integration across subjects. The school’s STEM programs provide hands-on learning experiences that prepare students for college and future careers.

Athletics represent a significant aspect of Columbus North’s identity, with competitive teams in various sports. The Bull Dogs, as they are known, have earned numerous regional and state championships over the years.

The school fosters a supportive community environment where students are encouraged to participate in various clubs and activities. Faculty members at Columbus North are committed to student success, offering individualized attention and guidance throughout the high school experience.

29. Goshen High School

Goshen High School serves students in grades 9-12 in Elkhart County. The school enrolls approximately 1,900 students and maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 18:1, allowing for personalized attention in a larger school setting.

Goshen offers a comprehensive academic program including 15 Advanced Placement courses and a strong dual credit partnership with local colleges. The school’s STEM initiatives have gained recognition, particularly in robotics and environmental science.

The RedHawks athletic program competes in the Northern Lakes Conference with notable strength in soccer, swimming, and cross country. Their performing arts department is equally impressive, with award-winning band and choir programs.

Goshen High School embraces diversity with a multicultural student body and offers specialized ESL support. The school’s commitment to community service is evident through various outreach programs that connect students with local organizations.

30. Plainfield High School

Plainfield High School serves students in Plainfield, Indiana, part of the Plainfield Community School Corporation. The school maintains a strong academic reputation with a graduation rate exceeding the state average.

Students at Plainfield High School have access to a variety of Advanced Placement courses and dual credit opportunities through partnerships with local colleges. The school’s curriculum emphasizes college and career readiness, offering both traditional academic paths and career-oriented programs.

Extracurricular activities include competitive athletics, performing arts, and academic clubs. The school features modern facilities including well-equipped science labs, a performing arts center, and athletic fields.

Plainfield High School is known for its supportive learning environment and community involvement. Teachers receive ongoing professional development to implement evidence-based instructional strategies.

The school’s commitment to technology integration provides students with digital tools necessary for success in the modern workplace.

Educational Standards in Indiana

Indiana maintains rigorous educational standards designed to prepare students for college and career success. The state implements comprehensive assessment systems and curriculum frameworks that schools must follow to ensure quality education across all districts.

Statewide Testing and Assessments

Indiana uses the Indiana Learning Evaluation Assessment Readiness Network (ILEARN) as its primary assessment tool for grades 3-8. This standardized test measures student achievement according to Indiana Academic Standards in various subjects including English/language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies.

For high school students, the graduation requirements include passing the Indiana Graduation Qualifying Exam (ISTEP+) or meeting equivalent pathways. Since 2019, Indiana has been transitioning to the SAT as its high school accountability assessment.

The Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) utilizes these assessment results to assign school accountability grades (A-F) that help identify high-performing schools and those needing improvement. These grades consider multiple factors including academic growth and graduation rates.

Curriculum Standards and Benchmarks

Indiana Academic Standards form the foundation of curriculum requirements across all public schools. These standards underwent significant revisions in 2014 when Indiana withdrew from Common Core to develop state-specific guidelines.

The standards cover seven core subject areas:

• English/Language Arts
• Mathematics
• Science
• Social Studies
• Fine Arts
• Physical Education/Health
• World Languages

Indiana’s curriculum emphasizes college and career readiness with specific benchmarks at each grade level. The standards incorporate critical thinking, problem-solving, and technological literacy as essential competencies.

High-performing schools typically exceed these minimum requirements, offering accelerated tracks, AP/IB courses, and specialized programs. Indiana also maintains specific STEM education initiatives that promote advanced coursework in science and technology fields.

Extracurricular Opportunities

Indiana’s top public high schools offer extensive extracurricular programs that enhance student development beyond academics. These activities help students develop leadership skills, explore interests, and build college-ready portfolios that stand out to admissions officers.

Arts and Music Programs

The best Indiana high schools boast exceptional arts opportunities that nurture creative talents. Carmel High School’s nationally recognized performing arts department includes award-winning show choirs, orchestras, and theater productions that regularly earn top honors at state and national competitions.

North Central High School’s J. Everett Light Career Center provides specialized training in visual arts, broadcasting, and music production with professional-grade equipment. Their annual art exhibitions attract college recruiters from prestigious institutions.

Westfield High School’s music program has earned the NAMM Foundation’s “Best Communities for Music Education” designation multiple times. Their marching band has qualified for state finals for 15 consecutive years.

Notable Arts Achievements (2024-2025):

• Zionsville High School’s theater program sent 5 students to the International Thespian Festival
• Park Tudor’s orchestra performed at Carnegie Hall in March 2025
• Fishers High School’s visual arts students earned 28 regional Scholastic Art Awards

STEM Clubs and Competitions

Top Indiana high schools leverage robust STEM extracurriculars to prepare students for technological careers. West Lafayette High School’s robotics team consistently advances to the FIRST Robotics World Championship, with their 2024 team placing in the top 10 internationally.

Signature School offers specialized research opportunities through partnerships with University of Evansville’s science departments. Students conduct college-level research with faculty mentorship, often publishing findings before graduation.

Popular STEM Competitions at Top Schools:

• Science Olympiad (Hamilton Southeastern, Munster, Bloomington North)
• FIRST Robotics (Brownsburg, Carmel, West Lafayette)
• Envirothon (Signature School, North Central, Zionsville)

Many schools have implemented maker spaces where students design and build projects using 3D printers, laser cutters, and programming tools. Bloomington High School North’s Innovation Center opened in 2024, featuring $1.2 million in advanced technology equipment accessible to all students.