Top 10 Public High Schools in Missouri in 2027

1. Ladue Horton Watkins High School

Ladue Horton Watkins High School ranks first because it posts among the highest test scores and proficiency rates in Missouri, with a graduation rate above 95% and average ACT scores commonly in the 25-28 range. The school enrolls roughly 1,400 students and offers a deep AP catalog across STEM and humanities, supported by elite per-pupil funding and modern facilities. Graduates matriculate in large numbers to Washington University in St. Louis, the University of Missouri, and selective national universities.

This school is for families in the affluent Ladue area who can afford the metro's most expensive housing, which is its primary trade-off. The small single high school limits course-section variety despite its strong catalog. Compared to Clayton High School directly below, Ladue offers a larger student body and even higher per-pupil funding, but Clayton's compact district provides a more walkable, intimate setting. Families prioritizing absolute top academics and resources over district size should choose Ladue.

2. Clayton High School

Clayton High School ranks second because it is a perennial top-three Missouri school with proficiency and ACT scores among the highest in the state, averaging in the 25-28 range. It enrolls roughly 900 students and reports a graduation rate above 95%, with an extensive AP program alongside strong arts and journalism offerings. The compact, walkable district concentrates resources, and per-pupil spending ranks near the top statewide.

This school is for inner-ring St. Louis families wanting elite academics in a walkable setting, but the high cost of living in the Clayton zone is a barrier. The small enrollment limits course sections, which can restrict scheduling flexibility. Compared to Ladue Horton Watkins above, Clayton offers a more intimate environment with close teacher-student relationships, but Ladue provides a larger AP catalog and greater facility scale. Families who value small-school mentoring over breadth should pick Clayton.

3. Marquette High School

Marquette High School ranks third as the best value in Missouri, delivering private-caliber academics at zero tuition through its roughly 3,000-student scale in the Rockwood School District. It posts proficiency rates well above state averages and a graduation rate above 95%, with average ACT scores landing in the mid-20s. The sheer size supports a massive AP catalog, deep electives, and competitive programs across nearly every sport and activity.

This school is for west St. Louis County families who want elite outcomes at scale, but the very large size can feel impersonal for some students. The competitive environment raises academic pressure, which may not suit every learner. Compared to Clayton High School above, Marquette offers far more course variety and extracurricular depth, but Clayton provides a smaller, more intimate setting with comparable test scores. Families prioritizing breadth and value over small-school closeness should choose Marquette.

4. Kirkwood High School

Kirkwood High School ranks fourth because it blends strong academics with a deep community tradition, posting proficiency above state averages and a graduation rate above 90%. It enrolls roughly 1,800 students and offers a robust AP program, with average ACT scores in the low-to-mid 20s. The school is well known for its performing arts, journalism, and athletics, supported by an engaged community and stable funding that drive strong facilities and teacher retention.

This school is for families wanting a tradition-rich, high-performing community school, but Kirkwood housing costs run above the metro average. Large enrollment in core classes at peak demand can limit individual attention. Compared to Marquette High School above, Kirkwood offers a smaller, more community-rooted environment, but Marquette provides a larger AP catalog and higher graduation rate. Families who value tradition and arts alongside solid academics should pick Kirkwood over the larger Rockwood schools.

5. Lafayette High School

Lafayette High School ranks fifth as a large, high-achieving comprehensive school in the Rockwood School District, posting proficiency above state averages and a graduation rate above 95%. It enrolls roughly 2,200 students and offers a broad AP slate, strong STEM and career-technical pathways, and deep activities, with ACT averages in the mid-20s. The suburban Wildwood setting brings strong funding and modern facilities, supporting robust college preparation.

This school is for far-west St. Louis County families wanting a large, high-achieving school, but the large size can limit individual attention. The far-west commute is a drawback for some district families. Compared to Kirkwood High School above, Lafayette offers a higher graduation rate and stronger STEM pathways, but Kirkwood provides a more tradition-rich community atmosphere. Families prioritizing STEM and career-technical options over community feel should choose Lafayette.

6. Parkway West High School

Parkway West High School ranks sixth because it is one of the metro's most consistent academic performers, posting proficiency above state averages and a graduation rate above 90%. It enrolls roughly 1,500 students and offers a strong AP program, with average ACT scores in the low-to-mid 20s. The school is known for its competitive academic teams, robotics, and athletics, supported by the Parkway district's stable funding and experienced faculty.

This school is for west-county families wanting strong academics in the Parkway district, but it has a smaller AP enrollment than the largest Rockwood schools. West-county housing costs run above average, which can be a barrier. Compared to Lafayette High School above, Parkway West offers a more intimate scale and strong STEM focus, but Lafayette provides a larger AP catalog and higher graduation rate.

7. Rockwood Summit High School

Rockwood Summit High School ranks seventh because it anchors strong academics in south St. Louis County, posting proficiency above state averages and a graduation rate above 90%. It enrolls roughly 1,200 students and offers a solid AP and dual-credit program, with ACT averages in the low-to-mid 20s. The school benefits from the Rockwood district's strong funding and a tight, community-rooted culture, with competitive athletics and activities.

This school is for south-county families wanting a strong, community-rooted Rockwood school, but it has a smaller AP catalog than Marquette or Lafayette. Fewer specialized magnet-style programs limit options for niche interests. Compared to Parkway West High School above, Rockwood Summit offers a more intimate, community-focused setting, but Parkway West provides a stronger STEM edge and larger AP enrollment. Families who prioritize a tight-knit culture and career-technical pathways should choose Rockwood Summit.

8. Liberty High School

Liberty High School ranks eighth as one of the strongest public high schools in the Kansas City metro, posting proficiency above state averages and a graduation rate above 90%. It enrolls roughly 1,800 students and offers a broad AP and dual-credit program, with ACT averages in the low-20s. The school is known for strong athletics, band, and academic teams, supported by the fast-growing Liberty Public Schools district's investment in modern facilities.

This school is for Northland Kansas City families wanting a large, high-performing school, but rapid growth crowds some grade levels. ACT averages trail top St. Louis schools, which may matter for highly selective college admissions. Compared to Rockwood Summit High School above, Liberty offers a larger scale and broader athletic programs, but Rockwood Summit provides a more community-rooted culture. Families in the KC Northland who want a well-rounded, well-funded school should pick Liberty.

9. Lee's Summit West High School

Lee's Summit West High School ranks ninth as a leading public high school in the KC suburbs, posting proficiency above state averages and a graduation rate above 90%. It enrolls roughly 1,800 students and offers a strong AP slate, robust dual-credit options, and deep athletics and activities, with ACT averages in the low-20s. The Lee's Summit R-7 district's strong funding and reputation support college preparation across a wide student body.

This school is for south Kansas City suburban families wanting a strong comprehensive school, but large enrollment limits individual attention. ACT averages below top St. Louis schools may be a consideration for competitive applicants. Compared to Liberty High School above, Lee's Summit West offers a similar scale and strong district reputation, but Liberty provides a faster-growing, more modern facility base. Families in the southern KC suburbs who want broad opportunities should choose Lee's Summit West.

10. Francis Howell Central High School

Francis Howell Central High School ranks tenth as a strong public school in one of Missouri's fastest-growing counties, posting proficiency near or above state averages and a graduation rate above 90%. It enrolls roughly 1,700 students and offers a broad AP and dual-credit program, with ACT averages in the low-20s. The St. Charles County tax base supports solid facilities, and the school benefits from an engaged community.

This school is for St. Charles County families wanting a strong, growing comprehensive school, but rapid county growth pressures facility capacity. ACT averages trail top St. Louis County schools, which may limit placement at the most selective universities. Compared to Lee's Summit West High School above, Francis Howell Central offers a more affordable housing market and strong community engagement, but Lee's Summit West provides a higher district reputation and broader AP options.

How we ranked these

We measured academic performance via state test proficiency and ACT scores (25%), college outcomes including matriculation and graduation rates (20%), value at zero tuition (15%), teacher quality and per-pupil funding (15%), safety and environment (15%), and extracurricular breadth (10%). Data came from DESE, U.S. News, Niche, GreatSchools, College Board, and NCES, weighted to reflect Missouri family priorities.

We deliberately ignored subjective factors like school culture, student happiness, and niche program rankings because they are not consistently measurable across all schools. We also excluded athletic championships and celebrity alumni, which do not predict academic success. By focusing only on verifiable, published data, we aimed to create a transparent, reproducible ranking that avoids bias and hype.

Related questions

What is the best public high school in Missouri for academics?

Ladue Horton Watkins High School is the best overall for academics, with proficiency rates well above state averages, a graduation rate above 95%, and average ACT scores in the 25-28 range. Its deep AP catalog and elite per-pupil funding send graduates to Washington University, Mizzou, and selective national universities.

Which Missouri public high school offers the best value?

Marquette High School in Chesterfield is the best value. It enrolls over 3,000 students, offers a massive AP catalog and deep electives, and posts a graduation rate above 95% with above-average proficiency. All this comes at zero tuition, giving families private-caliber academics at the scale of a small college.

How does Clayton High School compare to Ladue?

Clayton High School is a smaller, more intimate alternative to Ladue, with roughly 900 students. Both post top-tier ACT scores (25-28) and graduation rates above 95%. Clayton's compact, walkable district concentrates resources, while Ladue offers a larger AP catalog and more facilities. Both are elite choices in St. Louis County.

What are the top public high schools in Kansas City, Missouri?

Liberty High School in the Northland and Lee's Summit West High School in the south suburbs are the top KC-area public schools. Liberty enrolls about 1,800 students with a graduation rate above 90% and strong AP/dual-credit programs. Lee's Summit West offers similar academics with deep athletics and activities, both in well-funded districts.

Is Rockwood Summit High School a good choice for south St. Louis County?

Yes, Rockwood Summit in Fenton is a strong community-rooted school with about 1,200 students. It posts proficiency above state averages, a graduation rate above 90%, and offers solid AP and dual-credit programs. Its tight-knit culture and strong Rockwood funding make it ideal for families wanting a smaller feel without sacrificing academics.

What should I look for when choosing a Missouri public high school?

Check DESE accreditation and proficiency data, graduation rates above 90%, ACT averages above the state norm of 20, and the number of AP/dual-credit courses. Also ask where graduates enroll—schools feeding Mizzou or selective colleges indicate strong college prep. Visit the school to gauge fit, safety, and extracurricular opportunities.

How does Francis Howell Central compare to other St. Charles County schools?

Francis Howell Central in Cottleville is a strong, growing school with about 1,700 students. It posts proficiency near or above state averages, a graduation rate above 90%, and offers broad AP and dual-credit pathways. While ACT averages are in the low-20s, its well-supported district and engaged community make it a solid choice in a fast-growing county.

FAQ

What is the graduation rate at Ladue Horton Watkins High School?

Ladue Horton Watkins High School has a graduation rate above 95%, one of the highest in Missouri. This reflects strong student support and academic rigor, contributing to its top ranking. The school's per-pupil funding and facilities support this success.

Are all schools on this list tuition-free?

Yes, all ten schools are public high schools, so they are tuition-free for residents of their respective districts. This includes Ladue, Clayton, Marquette, Kirkwood, Lafayette, Parkway West, Rockwood Summit, Liberty, Lee's Summit West, and Francis Howell Central. Families pay taxes that fund these schools.

What is the average ACT score at Marquette High School?

Marquette High School's average ACT scores land in the mid-20s, well above the Missouri state average of about 20. This, combined with a graduation rate above 95% and a massive AP catalog, makes it a top value choice for college-bound students.

Which Missouri public high school has the largest enrollment?

Marquette High School in Chesterfield has the largest enrollment on this list, with roughly 3,000 students. This scale supports a vast AP catalog, deep electives, and competitive programs across nearly every sport and activity, offering the breadth of a small college.

How are the rankings weighted?

Academic performance (test scores, proficiency) is weighted 25%, college and post-grad outcomes 20%, value and cost 15%, teachers and resources 15%, environment and safety 15%, and extracurriculars and fit 10%. This balanced approach ensures schools that excel in one area but fail in others drop in ranking.

What is the best public high school in the Kansas City area?

Liberty High School in the Northland is the premier KC-area public school, with proficiency above state averages, a graduation rate above 90%, and strong AP/dual-credit programs. Lee's Summit West is a close second in the south suburbs, offering similar academics and deep athletics.

Do these schools offer AP and dual-credit courses?

Yes, all ten schools offer AP and dual-credit programs. Marquette and Lafayette have the largest catalogs due to their size, while smaller schools like Clayton and Ladue offer deep AP selections. Dual-credit partnerships allow students to earn college credits at no extra cost.

What is the graduation rate at Kirkwood High School?

Kirkwood High School has a graduation rate above 90%, with proficiency above state averages. The school is known for its performing arts, journalism, and athletics, and graduates often attend the University of Missouri or its honors programs.

How does Lee's Summit West compare to Liberty High School?

Both are top KC-area schools with similar enrollment (~1,800 students) and graduation rates above 90%. Lee's Summit West is in the south suburbs with strong AP and dual-credit options, while Liberty is in the Northland with a fast-growing district. Both send graduates to Mizzou and the University of Kansas.

Sources

• https://dese.mo.gov/
• https://www.usnews.com/education/best-high-schools/missouri
• https://www.niche.com/k12/search/best-public-high-schools/s/missouri/
• https://www.greatschools.org/missouri/
• https://nces.ed.gov/
• https://www.collegeboard.org/

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