Charter schools are technically public schools; they just receive funding in a vastly different manner (generally from for-profit companies). Most charter schools open their doors to any child who is interested. If more applications arrive than there are spots to fill, students are chosen at random from the applications.
Because of the differences in organization, many charter schools offer a much broader, creative curriculum. It really can make all the difference to have a strong high school education before you head to college or the real world. Here’s a look at the top 5 highest-rated charter high schools in the nation based on U.S. News and World Report and Niche.
1. BASIS School Inc
This Arizona charter school took the first 5 spots in U.S. News’ charter school and separate public school rankings. First, foremost, and largest is BASIS Scottsdale. It is first not only in Arizona but also the U.S. according to U.S. News—and with a 100% graduation rate. From there, BASIS schools Tucson North, Oro Valley, Peoria, and Chandler consecutively take the 2, 3, 4, and 5 charter ranking.
2. Pacific Collegiate Charter
Pacific Collegiate Charter in Santa Cruz, California, ranked number 10 on U.S. News' ranking of all the public high schools in the United States, as well as 6th in charter-specific rankings. Students are required to pass several advanced placement courses and be considered proficient in at least one foreign language—and the graduation rate is still about 87%. Among their main goals are to encourage students in “technology and cultural awareness.”
3. Amistad Academy
Based in New Haven, Connecticut, Amistad Academy took 7th place in charter rankings, 20th out of all public high schools, and number one in Connecticut. While their graduation rate dips down to 83%, U.S. News still ranks them at a 100 out of 100 for college readiness. Additionally, they keep their student body at about a 50/50 male to female ratio, while 98% of students are considered minorities and 81% are economically disadvantaged.
4. Charter School of Wilmington
Charter School of Wilmington in Delaware came in first on Niche’s list. Niche’s rankings are based on a massive gathering of statistics and personal reviews from students and families through the U.S. Department of Education. The school came in 14th on U.S. News’ charter ranking and 48th nationally. Wilmington’s focus is on “math, science, and computer education”—which is absolutely necessary in a rapidly changing world. Plus, Niche reports they have a 4:1 student to teacher ratio, which makes a huge difference.
5. Raleigh Charter High School
Raleigh, South Carolina's Charter High School came in second for Niche’s rankings, 17th for U.S. News charter rankings, and 56th for the nation’s public schools. It was also ranked the second best high school in South Carolina. With a 13:1 student: teacher ratio, Raleigh Charter has a 100% graduation rate.
