Top 25 Public Schools in Washington Rankings and Reviews

Top 25 Public Schools in Washington (2025 Rankings & Reviews)

If you’re looking for the best public schools in Washington State in 2025—whether you’re relocating, planning for your child’s future, or simply curious—this guide is for you. We’ve researched state rankings, academic performance, extracurricular programs, and parent/student reviews to bring you the top 5 public schools in Washington, each offering standout education and a strong community.

1. Tesla STEM High School – Redmond, WA

Tesla STEM High School – Redmond, WA

Location: Lake Washington School District
Grades: 9–12
Student-Teacher Ratio: 22:1
GreatSchools Rating: 10/10
Graduation Rate: 100%

Tesla STEM High School continues to dominate Washington’s public school rankings in 2025. Known for its intense focus on science, technology, engineering, and math, Tesla STEM caters to academically driven students aiming for careers in tech, research, and innovation.

  • Ranked among the top 50 high schools in the U.S.

  • Offers advanced research labs, robotics, and biotechnology electives

  • AP pass rates far above the state average

  • Visit the official school profile on the Lake Washington School District website.

2. International School – Bellevue, WA

International School – Bellevue, WA

Location: Bellevue School District
Grades: 6–12
Student-Teacher Ratio: 20:1
GreatSchools Rating: 10/10
College Readiness Score: 97%

The International School in Bellevue continues to be a favorite for academically gifted students. This rigorous 7-year academic program emphasizes humanities, language, and international perspectives. Students take seven years of a foreign language—French or Spanish—plus in-depth studies in literature, history, and science.

  • Ranked among top 100 U.S. high schools by U.S. News & World Report

  • Emphasizes cultural awareness and global citizenship

  • Small-school environment with high college acceptance rates

  • Check out Bellevue School District’s official page for admission info and curriculum guides.

3. Newport Senior High School – Bellevue, WA

Newport Senior High School – Bellevue, WA

Location: Bellevue School District
Grades: 9–12
Student-Teacher Ratio: 19:1
GreatSchools Rating: 9/10
SAT Average Score (2025): 1350+

Newport High is known for balancing rigorous academics with a broad range of extracurriculars. It offers one of the most comprehensive AP programs in the state, along with top-tier athletics, STEM clubs, and a nationally ranked debate team.

  • Top 3% in national math and reading proficiency

  • Award-winning robotics and science teams

  • Offers college-level research courses

  • Learn more about Newport High School on the Bellevue School District site.

4. Camas High School – Camas, WA

Camas High School – Camas, WA

Location: Camas School District
Grades: 9–12
Student-Teacher Ratio: 21:1
Graduation Rate: 96%
College Enrollment Rate: 88%

Located in the small, close-knit community of Camas near Vancouver, WA, Camas High School consistently performs above the state average in academics and career-readiness metrics. It offers strong AP and dual-credit programs, plus acclaimed arts and athletics departments.

  • Strong focus on both college and career pathways

  • State championships in sports and performing arts

  • Partnership with Clark College for dual enrollment

5. Interlake High School – Bellevue, WA

Interlake High School – Bellevue, WA

Location: Bellevue School District
Grades: 9–12
Student-Teacher Ratio: 20:1
GreatSchools Rating: 9/10
IB Diploma Participation: 95%

Interlake High is home to one of Washington’s strongest International Baccalaureate (IB) programs. This makes it a great fit for globally minded students seeking academic rigor and a well-rounded education. Its diversity, test scores, and STEM performance rank among the top in the state.

  • One of Washington’s highest IB diploma completion rates

  • Strong math, science, and engineering tracks

  • Active student clubs including Model UN, tech, and environmental groups

  • See Interlake’s curriculum and IB info on the Bellevue School District site.

6. Raisbeck Aviation High School – Tukwila, WA

Raisbeck Aviation High School – Tukwila, WA

District: Highline Public Schools
Grades: 9–12
GreatSchools Rating: 10/10
College Readiness Index: 91%
Graduation Rate: 98%

Raisbeck Aviation High School is a nationally recognized STEM magnet school that specializes in aviation and aerospace. Students benefit from partnerships with Boeing, NASA, and the Museum of Flight. Admission is competitive and open to students across the Puget Sound region.

  • Hands-on learning with flight simulators and aerospace projects

  • Internship programs with aviation industry leaders

  • Ranked top 5 in Washington for STEM

7. Bainbridge High School – Bainbridge Island, WA

Bainbridge High School – Bainbridge Island, WA

District: Bainbridge Island School District
Grades: 9–12
GreatSchools Rating: 9/10
Average SAT Score (2025): 1340+
College Readiness: 90%

Bainbridge High School is consistently ranked among the top public high schools in Washington. Located on a scenic island just a ferry ride from Seattle, the school offers a rigorous academic curriculum, a wide range of AP classes, and strong arts and athletics programs.

  • Exceptional college prep and AP pass rates

  • Strong visual and performing arts departments

  • High parent and community engagement

8. Mercer Island High School – Mercer Island, WA

Mercer Island High School – Mercer Island, WA

District: Mercer Island School District
Grades: 9–12
GreatSchools Rating: 9/10
Graduation Rate: 97%
Student-Teacher Ratio: 18:1

Known for its academic rigor and well-rounded student body, Mercer Island High consistently ranks in the top 10 public schools statewide. It offers over 20 AP courses, a strong athletic program, and a nationally recognized music department.

  • High college matriculation rates

  • Award-winning band and orchestra programs

  • Active clubs, leadership programs, and volunteer opportunities

9. Issaquah High School – Issaquah, WA

Issaquah High School – Issaquah, WA

District: Issaquah School District
Grades: 9–12
GreatSchools Rating: 9/10
Graduation Rate: 95%
Average SAT Score: 1320

Issaquah High is a large, high-performing public school located in a thriving suburb east of Seattle. With strong AP offerings and above-average test scores, the school also boasts a vibrant student life with numerous clubs, arts, and athletic programs.

  • Strong STEM and computer science programs

  • AP Capstone Diploma Program available

  • Highly supportive parent community

10. Bellevue High School – Bellevue, WA

Bellevue High School – Bellevue, WA

District: Bellevue School District
Grades: 9–12
GreatSchools Rating: 9/10
Graduation Rate: 98%
College Readiness Index: 85%

Bellevue High is another flagship school in the Bellevue School District, known for producing top academic performers in Washington. It offers a wide range of AP courses, excellent athletics (especially football), and a diverse student population.

  • Highly ranked for both academics and extracurriculars

  • Inclusive environment with strong support services

  • Competitive sports teams and strong student leadership

  • Visit Bellevue High School

11. Ballard High School – Seattle, WA

Ballard High School – Seattle, WA

District: Seattle Public Schools
Grades: 9–12
GreatSchools Rating: 9/10
Graduation Rate: 94%
Student-Teacher Ratio: 20:1

Ballard High School, located in north Seattle, blends strong academics with unique programs in maritime studies, biotechnology, and digital filmmaking. It’s one of the city’s most sought-after comprehensive high schools.

  • Nationally recognized video production program

  • Maritime Academy for marine science and technology careers

  • Wide variety of AP and honors classes

  • Explore Ballard High School

12. Inglemoor High School – Kenmore, WA

Inglemoor High School – Kenmore, WA

District: Northshore School District
Grades: 9–12
GreatSchools Rating: 9/10
IB Diploma Participation: 80%+
Graduation Rate: 96%

Inglemoor High School is known for its International Baccalaureate (IB) program, one of the largest in the Pacific Northwest. The school is praised for its balance of academic rigor, music programs, and athletics.

  • Full IB Diploma and individual course offerings

  • Award-winning jazz and orchestra programs

  • Diverse student population with high parent involvement

  • Visit Inglemoor High School

13. Garfield High School – Seattle, WA

Garfield High School – Seattle, WA

District: Seattle Public Schools
Grades: 9–12
GreatSchools Rating: 9/10
College Readiness Index: 82%
Graduation Rate: 95%

Located in Seattle’s Central District, Garfield High is a historic school known for academic achievement, equity efforts, and strong arts and music programs. Alumni include Jimi Hendrix and Quincy Jones.

  • Home to Seattle’s premier jazz program

  • Advanced Placement and Honors classes widely available

  • Culturally rich and socially active student body

  • Learn more about Garfield High

14. Skyline High School – Sammamish, WA

Skyline High School – Sammamish, WA

District: Issaquah School District
Grades: 9–12
GreatSchools Rating: 9/10
Graduation Rate: 97%
AP Participation: 70%+

Skyline High is located in one of the most affluent suburbs east of Seattle. It offers competitive academics, robust AP classes, and strong extracurriculars. The school also excels in sports, particularly football and soccer.

  • Offers AP Capstone and Computer Science pathways

  • Highly ranked STEM and athletics programs

  • Active community and academic mentorship opportunities

15. Mount Si High School – Snoqualmie, WA

Mount Si High School – Snoqualmie, WA

District: Snoqualmie Valley School District
Grades: 9–12
GreatSchools Rating: 8/10
Graduation Rate: 95%
New Facilities: Rebuilt in 2019 with modern technology

Nestled in the foothills of the Cascades, Mount Si High offers a strong mix of academics, athletics, and career-technical education (CTE). The newly built campus features cutting-edge science labs and performance spaces.

  • Career and Technical Education (CTE) focus

  • Strong AP offerings and dual credit opportunities

  • Stunning campus with a safe, community-oriented vibe

16. Richland High School – Richland, WA

Richland High School – Richland, WA

District: Richland School District
Grades: 9–12
GreatSchools Rating: 8/10
Graduation Rate: 94%
Student-Teacher Ratio: 21:1

Richland High, located in southeastern Washington, is known for strong STEM programs and a rich history of academic achievement. The school serves as a hub for Tri-Cities students seeking AP, honors, and CTE (Career & Technical Education) pathways.

  • High success in math and science competitions

  • Offers numerous AP and dual credit courses

  • Robust extracurriculars, especially athletics and music

17. Kamiak High School – Mukilteo, WA

Kamiak High School – Mukilteo, WA

District: Mukilteo School District
Grades: 9–12
GreatSchools Rating: 8/10
Graduation Rate: 96%
College Readiness Index: 78%

Kamiak High School offers a great balance between academics, arts, and athletics. Located just north of Seattle, it is well-known for its show choir, competitive academic teams, and active AP participation.

  • Award-winning music and theater programs

  • Diverse student body with active student leadership

  • Strong college acceptance rates across Washington and the West Coast

  • Explore Kamiak High School

18. Lake Washington High School – Kirkland, WA

Lake Washington High School – Kirkland, WA

District: Lake Washington School District
Grades: 9–12
GreatSchools Rating: 9/10
Graduation Rate: 97%
Student-Teacher Ratio: 18:1

Lake Washington High offers a high-achieving academic environment with a focus on college preparation. Located in Kirkland, close to Microsoft’s headquarters, the school draws many tech-savvy families and offers strong STEM and AP pathways.

  • College & career readiness is a key focus

  • Outstanding sports and DECA business programs

  • Integrated digital learning platforms

19. Shorewood High School – Shoreline, WA

Shorewood High School – Shoreline, WA

District: Shoreline School District
Grades: 9–12
GreatSchools Rating: 8/10
Graduation Rate: 92%
Student Body: ~1,600

Located just north of Seattle, Shorewood High School has a vibrant community that celebrates both academics and the arts. The school has undergone recent renovations and now features modern facilities and updated technology.

  • Strong theater, photography, and visual arts programs

  • Active student leadership and environmental clubs

  • Consistently strong SAT performance across demographics

  • Explore Shorewood High School

20. Union High School – Camas/Vancouver, WA

Union High School – CamasVancouver, WA

District: Evergreen Public Schools
Grades: 9–12
GreatSchools Rating: 8/10
Graduation Rate: 95%
Student-Teacher Ratio: 23:1

Union High is a modern, sprawling campus serving Vancouver’s suburban communities. Known for its top-notch sports teams and college-level electives, Union also emphasizes character development and leadership through its award-winning leadership program.

  • Offers college in the high school (CIHS) classes

  • Strong emphasis on character, leadership, and community service

  • Huge school spirit and modern campus amenities

21. Southridge High School – Kennewick, WA

Southridge High School – Kennewick, WA

District: Kennewick School District
Grades: 9–12
GreatSchools Rating: 8/10
Graduation Rate: 94%
Student-Teacher Ratio: 20:1

Southridge High has earned a reputation in southeastern Washington for blending strong academics with career-readiness. The school’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways include health science, engineering, and agriculture.

  • AP, Honors, and dual-credit programs

  • Award-winning DECA and FBLA chapters

  • High student satisfaction and family involvement

  • Visit Southridge High School

22. Mead High School – Spokane, WA

Mead High School – Spokane, WA

District: Mead School District
Grades: 9–12
GreatSchools Rating: 8/10
Graduation Rate: 96%
College Readiness Index: 77%

Located in northern Spokane, Mead High School boasts strong academics and an impressive athletics tradition. Its student body thrives on diverse offerings in music, sports, and pre-college prep.

  • Strong AP test performance

  • High participation in orchestra, choir, and competitive sports

  • Positive, close-knit school community

23. Battle Ground High School – Battle Ground, WA

Battle Ground High School – Battle Ground, WA

District: Battle Ground School District
Grades: 9–12
GreatSchools Rating: 8/10
Graduation Rate: 93%
Enrollment: ~1,700 students

Battle Ground High School blends suburban and rural sensibilities with academic and technical education. It offers solid AP options, student leadership opportunities, and a well-supported special education program.

  • Excellent Career & Technical Education pathways

  • Hands-on programs: welding, culinary arts, robotics

  • Friendly campus culture with inclusive values

24. Central Valley High School – Spokane Valley, WA

Central Valley High School – Spokane Valley, WA

District: Peninsula School District
Grades: 9–12
GreatSchools Rating: 8/10
Graduation Rate: 95%
Student-Teacher Ratio: 19:1

Gig Harbor High offers strong academics in a scenic coastal town setting. With a focus on marine biology, environmental science, and the arts, it’s a well-rounded choice for families in the Tacoma metro region.

25. Gig Harbor High School – Gig Harbor, WA

Gig Harbor High School – Gig Harbor, WA

District: Peninsula School District
Grades: 9–12
GreatSchools Rating: 8/10
Graduation Rate: 95%
Student-Teacher Ratio: 19:1

Gig Harbor High offers strong academics in a scenic coastal town setting. With a focus on marine biology, environmental science, and the arts, it’s a well-rounded choice for families in the Tacoma metro region.

  • Excellent community support and facilities

  • AP and Running Start college credit options

  • Marine science, theater, and sailing clubs

Final Thoughts:

Washington is home to some of the best public schools in the country, with a strong emphasis on STEM, international education, and college readiness. Whether you’re prioritizing advanced placement programs, a global perspective, or a tight-knit school culture, these five schools offer something exceptional.

For the most accurate and up-to-date rankings, always refer to official sources like:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How are public schools ranked in Washington?
A: Rankings are typically based on state test scores, graduation rates, college readiness (SAT/ACT/AP/IB participation), and parent/student reviews.

 

Q: Are there magnet or lottery systems to get into these schools?
A: Yes, some like Tesla STEM and International School require applications or lottery-based admission due to limited seats.

 

Q: Are these schools free to attend?
A: As public schools, they are tuition-free for in-district residents. Out-of-district or transfer students may face enrollment restrictions.

 

Q: Which public school is best for STEM in Washington?
A: Tesla STEM High School is the clear leader in STEM-focused education.

 

Q: Which district is home to the most top-ranked public schools?
A: Bellevue School District hosts several of Washington’s highest-ranking public schools.

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