Top 10 Public High Schools in Louisiana in 2027

1. Benjamin Franklin High School

Benjamin Franklin High School in New Orleans ranks first because it posts the strongest academic record in Louisiana, with an average ACT composite near 30 and a graduation rate above 99%. Nearly 100% of its roughly 900 students go on to college, supported by an AP catalog of more than 20 subjects and an AP participation rate above 90%. The student-teacher ratio sits near 18:1, and graduates routinely land at Tulane, LSU, Vanderbilt, and Ivy League institutions.

This school is for high-achieving students who thrive in an intense academic peer group and can clear a selective admissions process. It trades away accessibility—many applicants are turned down—and the pressure is not right for every student. Compared to Lusher Charter at rank two, Franklin offers a narrower focus on pure academics, while Lusher pairs strong academics with a renowned arts program.

2. Lusher Charter School

Lusher Charter School ranks second because it uniquely combines rigorous academics with one of the state's best performing-arts programs, a balance no other top Louisiana public school matches. The high school campus enrolls around 800 students, posts a graduation rate near 97%, and sends the large majority of graduates to four-year colleges. Students average an ACT composite in the high 20s, and the student-teacher ratio runs near 16:1, supporting a broad AP catalog alongside certified arts tracks.

This school is for students who refuse to choose between serious academics and serious art, with admission blending a lottery with arts auditions for certificated programs. It trades away the near-perfect test scores of Benjamin Franklin at rank one for a more well-rounded education. The arts-certificate seats require competitive auditions, and general-admission lottery entry remains uncertain, making it a less predictable option than Franklin's test-based admission.

3. Baton Rouge Magnet High School

Baton Rouge Magnet High School ranks third because it is the academic flagship of the capital region, posting a graduation rate above 98% and an ACT composite in the high 20s to 30. Enrolling about 1,200 students, it offers an AP load of well over 15 subjects with an AP participation rate above 80%. The student-teacher ratio is roughly 19:1, and graduates go to LSU, Tulane, and selective out-of-state universities in large numbers.

This school is for top Baton Rouge students seeking a competitive, test-based magnet experience in a historic building. It trades away the arts focus of Lusher at rank two, offering a broader but more traditional college-prep curriculum. The large enrollment can feel impersonal for some students, and admission is competitive, so it is less accessible than open-enrollment schools but more regionally focused than the New Orleans magnets.

4. Caddo Parish Magnet High School

Caddo Parish Magnet High School ranks fourth because it anchors academic excellence in Shreveport, posting a graduation rate near 99% and an ACT composite in the high 20s. Enrolling roughly 1,000 students, the school offers a robust AP program spanning 15-plus subjects and emphasizes a college-prep curriculum that feeds LSU, LSU Shreveport, Centenary College, and out-of-state schools.

This school is for ambitious students in north Louisiana who want the region's strongest academics without leaving home. It trades away the capital-region pipeline of Baton Rouge Magnet at rank three, with fewer elite out-of-state feeder ties. Selective entry limits access, and the larger ratio means less individual attention than smaller magnets, but it remains the clear choice for the Shreveport area.

5. Patrick F. Taylor Science and Technology Academy

Patrick F. Taylor Science and Technology Academy ranks fifth because it is the strongest public STEM option in Louisiana, with dedicated engineering, robotics, and computer science pathways. Serving grades 6–12 with a high school enrollment around 700, it posts a graduation rate near 99% and an ACT composite in the high 20s. The student-teacher ratio runs near 17:1, and AP plus dual-enrollment options let students bank college credit early.

This school is for students set on engineering or technology careers, trading away the broad humanities and arts offerings of Caddo Magnet at rank four. Selective STEM-oriented admission keeps entry competitive, and the curriculum is narrower than a comprehensive magnet. The small ratio and focused pathways make it ideal for a specific student, but it is not the right fit for those wanting a balanced academic program across disciplines.

6. Haynes Academy for Advanced Studies

Haynes Academy for Advanced Studies ranks sixth because it is a top all-around magnet in Jefferson Parish, posting a graduation rate near 99% and an ACT composite in the high 20s. The high school enrolls roughly 800 students, offers a wide AP catalog alongside dual-enrollment, and emphasizes a balanced program across sciences and humanities. The student-teacher ratio is about 19:1, and graduates head to LSU, Tulane, and Loyola New Orleans in strong numbers.

This school is for Jefferson Parish students wanting breadth over specialization, trading away the STEM depth of Patrick Taylor at rank five for a more balanced college-prep curriculum. Selective admission keeps enrollment competitive, and it lacks the specialized engineering pathways of its sister magnet. It is ideal for students who want strong academics without committing to a single discipline, but it is less distinctive than the top-ranked New Orleans schools.

7. Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts

The Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts ranks seventh because it delivers elite academics at no cost to families, making it the best value in the state. This state-funded residential public school in Natchitoches enrolls roughly 400 students in grades 11–12 and posts an ACT composite around 30 with near-universal college matriculation.

This school is for gifted students statewide who can leave home for their final years of high school, trading away the local community of Haynes Academy at rank six for a boarding-school experience. The residential format means living away from family, and admission is limited to upperclassmen, so younger applicants must wait. It levels the field for students from any parish, but the transition is significant and not suited to every student.

8. Edna Karr High School

Edna Karr High School ranks eighth because it is the best open-enrollment public school in New Orleans, posting a graduation rate near 95% and a college-going rate well above the state average. Enrolling around 900 students, the school offers a growing AP and dual-enrollment program and a college-prep core that has steadily lifted its School Performance Score.

This school is for New Orleans families wanting strong outcomes without an entrance exam, trading away the selective peer group of LSMSA at rank seven for open access. Test scores trail the selective magnets, and the AP catalog is smaller than the top academic schools. It is the best open-access pick in the city, but students seeking the highest academic rigor would need to apply to a magnet.

9. Captain Shreve High School

Captain Shreve High School ranks ninth because it is the best traditional, well-rounded public high school in the Shreveport area, posting a graduation rate near 92% and a solid college-going rate. Enrolling roughly 1,500 students, it offers a meaningful slate of AP courses and dual-enrollment, with respected gifted and talented programs. The student-teacher ratio is about 21:1, and its size supports a wide range of athletics, arts, and clubs that smaller magnets cannot match.

This school is for Shreveport-area students wanting a large, comprehensive high school without an entrance exam, trading away the academic intensity of Edna Karr at rank eight for a broader experience. Test averages trail the selective magnets, and the large size can dilute individual attention. It is the best option for families who value a full slate of extracurriculars over the highest test scores, but it is not the top academic choice in the region.

10. Mandeville High School

Mandeville High School ranks tenth because it is the top-performing comprehensive public school in suburban Louisiana, posting a graduation rate near 96% and an ACT composite above the state average. Enrolling roughly 1,800 students, it offers a broad AP program and dual-enrollment, supported by St. Tammany Parish's well-resourced district. The student-teacher ratio runs near 20:1, and the school is known for a strong combination of academics, athletics, and arts.

This school is for North Shore families wanting a high-performing neighborhood school without an admissions test, trading away the open-enrollment access of Captain Shreve at rank nine for a slightly stronger academic record. Strong scores are partly tied to an affluent attendance zone, and the large enrollment limits individual attention. It is the best neighborhood comprehensive school on the North Shore, but it does not match the selectivity or outcomes of the top magnets.

How we ranked these

We measured academic performance (25%), college and post-grad outcomes (20%), value and cost (15%), teachers and resources (15%), environment and safety (15%), and extracurriculars and fit (10%). Data came from the Louisiana Department of Education School Performance Scores, U.S. News, Niche, GreatSchools, and College Board AP reports. Schools with elite test scores but little else dropped; those balancing all six categories rose.

We deliberately ignored subjective factors like campus aesthetics, alumni networks, and social prestige. We also excluded sports championships and band accolades unless they correlated with measurable student outcomes. Rankings rely solely on publicly reported, verifiable data to avoid bias. We did not consider private school alternatives or out-of-state options, keeping the focus on Louisiana public schools.

What to look for

When choosing between these schools, focus on your child's specific needs: academic rigor, arts programs, STEM pathways, or open enrollment. For instance, Benjamin Franklin offers the highest ACT scores but requires a selective test; Lusher provides arts integration but needs auditions. LSMSA gives a free boarding experience for gifted students. Consider commute, class size, and available AP courses.

The most common mistake is chasing rankings without visiting the school or understanding the admission process. Many families overlook the value of LSMSA's free residential option or the open-enrollment benefits at Edna Karr. Another error is ignoring the school's culture and fit—a high-achieving student may thrive at Franklin, but a more balanced environment at Mandeville could be better for others.

Related questions

What is the best public high school in Louisiana?

Benjamin Franklin High School in New Orleans is consistently ranked the best public high school in Louisiana. It boasts a graduation rate above 99%, an average ACT composite around 30, and nearly 100% college enrollment. With over 20 AP courses and a 90%+ AP participation rate, it offers the strongest academic peer group in the state.

Which Louisiana public high school offers the best value?

The Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts (LSMSA) in Natchitoches is the best value. It's a tuition-free, state-funded residential school for gifted students from any parish. Students get a boarding-school-caliber education with an ACT composite near 30 and extensive dual-enrollment opportunities, all at no cost to families.

Are there free public boarding schools in Louisiana?

Yes, the Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts (LSMSA) is a free, state-funded residential public school. It serves academically advanced students in grades 11-12 from all parishes. The school provides a college-level curriculum, dual-enrollment with Northwestern State, and an ACT average around 30, all at no cost to families.

What are the top magnet high schools in New Orleans?

Benjamin Franklin High School is the top magnet in New Orleans, known for its selective admission and exceptional academics. Lusher Charter School is another top choice, offering a blend of rigorous academics and a renowned arts program. Both have high graduation rates and strong college placement, but require competitive applications.

Which Louisiana high school has the highest ACT scores?

Benjamin Franklin High School and the Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts (LSMSA) both report average ACT composites around 30. This is roughly ten points above the state average. These schools attract high-achieving students and offer rigorous curricula that prepare them well for the test.

What is the best STEM high school in Louisiana?

Patrick F. Taylor Science and Technology Academy in Jefferson Parish is the top STEM-focused public magnet. It offers dedicated pathways in engineering, robotics, and computer science, with AP and dual-enrollment options. The school has a graduation rate near 99% and a small student-teacher ratio of 17:1, making it ideal for future engineers.

Are there public high schools in Louisiana with arts programs?

Yes, Lusher Charter School in New Orleans is renowned for its performing arts program, offering certified tracks in visual arts, theater, dance, and music. It combines this with strong academics, a graduation rate near 97%, and an ACT composite in the high 20s. Admission includes auditions for the arts program.

What are the best public high schools in Shreveport?

Caddo Parish Magnet High School is the top public school in Shreveport, with a 99% graduation rate and a strong AP program. Captain Shreve High School is another good option, offering a comprehensive education with gifted and talented programs. Both have solid college placement and competitive extracurriculars.

FAQ

How are Louisiana public high schools ranked?

Rankings typically use data from the Louisiana Department of Education, U.S. News, Niche, and GreatSchools. Key metrics include academic performance (test scores, ACT), graduation rates, college readiness (AP participation), and sometimes value and safety. Each ranking system weighs these factors differently, so results can vary.

What is a magnet school in Louisiana?

A magnet school is a public school with a specialized curriculum or focus, often requiring an application or entrance exam. In Louisiana, examples include Benjamin Franklin (academics), Patrick Taylor (STEM), and Haynes Academy (college-prep). They are free to attend but selective, admitting students based on academic records and test scores.

Do Louisiana public high schools require entrance exams?

Not all. Selective magnet schools like Benjamin Franklin and Baton Rouge Magnet require entrance exams or academic records for admission. However, open-enrollment charter schools like Edna Karr and comprehensive public schools like Mandeville High do not require entrance exams. Check each school's admission process.

What is the Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts?

LSMSA is a tuition-free, state-funded residential public school in Natchitoches for gifted high school juniors and seniors. It offers a college-level curriculum with extensive dual-enrollment at Northwestern State University. Students live on campus, and the school has an ACT composite around 30, providing elite academics at no cost.

Are charter schools in Louisiana free?

Yes, charter schools in Louisiana are public schools and are free to attend. They operate independently but are publicly funded. Examples include Lusher Charter School and Edna Karr High School in New Orleans. They often have specific admission processes, such as lotteries or auditions, but do not charge tuition.

What is the average ACT score for Louisiana public high schools?

The state average ACT composite is around 20. However, top schools like Benjamin Franklin and LSMSA average near 30, which is significantly higher. Other strong schools like Lusher and Baton Rouge Magnet report averages in the high 20s. This variation highlights the difference in academic rigor and student selectivity.

Which Louisiana high school has the best graduation rate?

Several top schools have graduation rates above 99%, including Benjamin Franklin, Caddo Parish Magnet, and Patrick Taylor Academy. These schools have highly motivated student bodies and strong support systems. Edna Karr and Captain Shreve have lower rates (95% and 92% respectively) but still exceed the state average.

Can students from any parish attend LSMSA?

Yes, the Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts is open to academically advanced students from every parish in Louisiana. Admission is selective and based on academic records, test scores, and recommendations. The school is residential, so students live on campus in Natchitoches during the school year.

What are the benefits of attending a magnet high school?

Magnet schools offer specialized curricula, rigorous academics, and a peer group of motivated students. They often have higher test scores and college placement rates. For example, Benjamin Franklin offers over 20 AP courses, and Patrick Taylor provides STEM pathways. However, admission is competitive, and the environment can be intense.

How does school performance score affect rankings?

The Louisiana Department of Education assigns a School Performance Score (SPS) based on test scores, graduation rates, and other metrics. This score is a key factor in rankings by U.S. News and others. Schools with higher SPS, like Benjamin Franklin and Lusher, rank higher. It provides an objective measure of school quality.

Sources

• https://www.usnews.com/education/best-high-schools/louisiana
• https://www.louisianabelieves.com/data/sps
• https://www.niche.com/k12/search/best-public-high-schools/s/louisiana/
• https://www.greatschools.org/louisiana/
• https://www.collegeboard.org/
• https://lsmsa.edu/
• https://www.benfranklinhighschool.org/
• https://www.lusherschool.org/
• https://www.brschools.org/brmagnet
• https://www.caddoschools.org/schools/caddo-parish-magnet-high-school/

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