Exploring Philadelphia’s Top-Ranked High Schools: A Comprehensive Guide

Exploring Philadelphia’s Top-Ranked High Schools: A Comprehensive Guide

Julia R. Masterman Secondary School

Julia R. Masterman Secondary School stands out as the highest-ranked public high school in Philadelphia. Situated in the Spring Garden neighborhood, it serves grades 5 through 12. Its enrollment is approximately 1,186 students, with a student-teacher ratio of 22:1. The school boasts a 100% graduation rate and a college readiness score of 96.5, reflecting its rigorous academic standards.

The curriculum includes numerous Advanced Placement (AP) courses, fostering college preparation. Masterman’s excellence is nationally recognized, ranked 4th across the United States. Its focus on academic rigor and diverse extracurricular offerings attracts students from across the city seeking a challenging environment.

Central High School

Central High School is located in the Olney neighborhood and serves grades 9 through 12. With an enrollment of around 2,364 students and a student-teacher ratio of 20:1, it maintains a strong academic reputation. The school achieves a 99% graduation rate and a college readiness score of 58.8, highlighting its effective college preparatory programs.

Offering a wide array of AP courses, Central has a long-standing history of academic excellence. Its large student body benefits from a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including athletics, arts, and leadership programs. Central High School remains a cornerstone of Philadelphia’s public education system.

Carver High School of Engineering and Science

Carver High School of Engineering and Science specializes in STEM education, emphasizing engineering and scientific disciplines. Located in North Philadelphia, it serves grades 9 through 12 with approximately 249 students and a student-teacher ratio of 17:1. The school reports a 100% graduation rate, demonstrating its commitment to student success.

College readiness for Carver is measured at 25.4, indicating room for growth in college preparedness. However, its specialized curriculum includes AP courses and partnerships with local industries, preparing students for careers in STEM fields. The school’s focus attracts highly motivated students interested in science and technology careers.

Philadelphia High School for the Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA)

CAPA is a magnet school based in South Philadelphia, serving grades 9 through 12. It enrolls about 743 students, with a student-teacher ratio of 19.6:1. CAPA’s unique programming includes intensive courses in creative writing, visual arts, instrumental music, theater, dance, vocal music, and media design.

Its rich history of producing notable artists and creatives underscores its reputation. Students benefit from specialized faculty and state-of-the-art facilities designed to nurture artistic talent. CAPA emphasizes balancing academic rigor with artistic development, fostering an environment of innovation and excellence.

Germantown Friends School

Germantown Friends School is a private Quaker institution located in the Germantown neighborhood. Serving grades 9 through 12, it enrolls approximately 500 students. The school offers a rigorous curriculum intertwined with strong community service commitments and ethical development programs.

The school emphasizes sustainability and climate action, notably through its Active Hope initiative. Its focus on ethical education and environmental responsibility prepares students for both academic and civic leadership roles.

Conestoga High School

Conestoga High School is situated in Berwyn, Pennsylvania, serving grades 9 through 12. It hosts around 2,347 students with a student-teacher ratio of 16:1. The school maintains a 99% graduation rate and a college readiness score of 58.8.

Conestoga offers an extensive curriculum emphasizing college preparation and rigorous coursework. Recognized nationally, it combines academic excellence with a supportive extracurricular environment, including sports, arts, and leadership programs.

Radnor High School

Radnor High School is located in Radnor, Pennsylvania, serving grades 9-12. Its enrollment is approximately 1,126 students, with a student-teacher ratio of 12:1. The school reports a 97% graduation rate and a college readiness score of 66.8.

Radnor offers a broad array of AP courses and extracurricular activities, contributing to its reputation for both academic and athletic achievement. Its small class sizes foster personalized instruction and community engagement.

MAST Community Charter School

MAST Community Charter School operates in Northeast Philadelphia, serving grades 9 through 12. With around 483 students and a student-teacher ratio of 14:1, it emphasizes STEM-focused education. The school maintains a 100% graduation rate and a high college readiness score of 88.

Its curriculum integrates technology, engineering, and science disciplines, preparing students for college and careers in STEM. The school’s success stems from its innovative teaching model and community partnerships.

Girard Academic Music Program (GAMP)

GAMP is a specialized high school located in South Philadelphia that emphasizes music and arts education. Serving grades 9-12, it enrolls about 235 students with an 18:1 student-teacher ratio. The program nurtures musical talents alongside academic growth.

GAMP’s graduates frequently excel in arts competitions and pursue higher education in music and related fields. Its collaborative environment encourages creativity, discipline, and artistic excellence.

Lower Merion High School

Lower Merion High School is situated in Ardmore, Pennsylvania. It serves grades 9-12 with approximately 1,721 students and a 12:1 student-teacher ratio. The school has a 97% graduation rate and a college readiness score of 66.8.

Its comprehensive academic programs include Advanced Placement courses, honors classes, and diverse extracurricular options. The school is recognized for high college admission rates and athletic achievements.

Friends Select School

Friends Select School is a private Quaker institution located in the heart of Center City Philadelphia. It caters to grades 9-12 and enrolls about 400 students. The school emphasizes a rigorous academic program with a focus on community service, leadership, and ethical development.

The school’s commitment to sustainability and social responsibility is demonstrated through initiatives like its Active Hope program. Its close-knit community fosters individual growth and civic engagement.

Summary of Key Features of Top Philadelphia High Schools

School	Grades	Enrollment	Student-Teacher Ratio	Graduation Rate	College Readiness Score	Special Focus
Julia R. Masterman	5-12	1186	22:1	100%	96.5	Academic Rigor, AP Courses
Central High School	9-12	2364	20:1	99%	58.8	Diverse Programs, AP Courses
Carver High School	9-12	249	17:1	100%	25.4	STEM Focus
CAPA	9-12	743	19.6:1	Unknown	Unknown	Arts & Creativity
Germantown Friends	9-12	500	N/A	N/A	N/A	Ethical, Sustainability
Conestoga	9-12	2347	16:1	99%	58.8	College Prep
Radnor	9-12	1126	12:1	97%	66.8	Academic & Athletics
MAST Charter	9-12	483	14:1	100%	88	STEM
GAMP	9-12	235	18:1	Unknown	Unknown	Music & Arts
Lower Merion	9-12	1721	12:1	97%	66.8	Honors & AP Courses
Friends Select	9-12	400	N/A	Unknown	Unknown	Community & Ethics

Frequently Asked Questions

Key Features of Philadelphia’s Most Recognized High Schools

This overview provides a comprehensive look at Philadelphia’s education landscape, emphasizing diversity in focus areas and academic excellence across top institutions.