Top 10 Public High Schools in Oklahoma in 2027

1. Booker T. Washington High School

Booker T. Washington High School ranks first as Oklahoma's best overall public high school, a selective Tulsa magnet enrolling about 1,400 students. Its graduation rate approaches 95%, and its extensive AP and International Baccalaureate programs drive proficiency rates far above state averages. The school's average ACT scores lead the state's comprehensive public schools, with graduates matriculating to the University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, and selective national universities. The student-teacher ratio runs about 16:1, supporting a rigorous, college-focused culture.

This school is for families seeking the strongest college-prep academics in Oklahoma, accepting that magnet admission is competitive and academic expectations are high. It trades the broad, less pressured environment of a large comprehensive school for a demanding, elite-focused atmosphere. Compared to Norman High School below, Booker T. Washington offers superior academic rigor and outcomes but lacks Norman's effortless, tuition-free University of Oklahoma dual-credit access.

2. Norman High School

Norman High School ranks second as Oklahoma's best-value public high school, a tuition-free comprehensive school enrolling about 2,000 students in Norman. Its deep dual-credit and concurrent-enrollment ties to the University of Oklahoma, located minutes away, provide unmatched college access at zero cost. The graduation rate sits in the high 80s to low 90s, with a strong AP catalog and proficiency rates above state averages.

This school is for families wanting strong academics and direct University of Oklahoma pathways without the selective admissions of a magnet. It trades the elite college matriculation of Booker T. Washington for a more accessible, less pressurized environment with large-enrollment counseling stretched thin. Compared to the top-ranked school, Norman delivers exceptional value and outcomes per dollar, but its overall academic performance trails the Tulsa magnet.

3. Edmond North High School

Edmond North High School ranks third with a graduation rate in the low 90s, a deep AP program, and proficiency rates above state averages. Enrolling roughly 2,600 students in Edmond, it is known for powerhouse academic decathlon, debate, and championship athletics, plus strong band and fine-arts programs. Concurrent-enrollment partnerships with regional colleges expand college-bound options, and graduates enroll at the University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, and out-of-state universities. The student-teacher ratio is about 18:1.

This school is for Edmond-area families wanting large-school resources and a competitive, activity-rich culture. It trades the intimate feel of smaller schools for a very large enrollment that can feel impersonal, with academic pressure heightened by a competitive environment. Compared to Norman High School, Edmond North offers a broader slate of extracurriculars and similar graduation rates, but lacks Norman's direct University of Oklahoma dual-credit pipeline.

4. Jenks High School

Jenks High School ranks fourth with a graduation rate in the low 90s, a deep AP and concurrent-enrollment program, and proficiency rates above state averages. Enrolling about 3,400 students on a large south-Tulsa campus, it is nationally known for championship athletics, band, and STEM programming. Its size supports an unusually broad slate of electives and clubs, and graduates enroll at the University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, and selective universities. The student-teacher ratio is about 17:1.

This school is for south-Tulsa-metro families wanting big-school academics and athletics in a vibrant, large-campus setting. It trades the academic focus of Edmond North for an even larger enrollment that can dilute individual attention, with a competitive athletics culture that isn't for everyone. Compared to Edmond North, Jenks offers similar graduation rates and AP access but a more extensive activities lineup.

5. Edmond Memorial High School

Edmond Memorial High School ranks fifth as an established Edmond flagship with a graduation rate in the low 90s, a deep AP program, and proficiency rates above state averages. Enrolling about 2,300 students, it is celebrated for strong debate, academic decathlon, and a distinguished fine-arts and theater tradition, alongside competitive athletics. Graduates enroll at the University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, and out-of-state universities, supported by a student-teacher ratio of about 18:1.

This school is for Edmond families wanting an established academic and arts tradition in a large, resource-rich environment. It trades the broader activities of Jenks for a more intimate, arts-focused culture, though large size can lengthen course waitlists. Compared to Jenks High School, Edmond Memorial offers a stronger fine-arts and theater reputation but slightly less athletic prominence. Its deep AP catalog and celebrated arts programs make it a strong choice for academically and creatively inclined students.

6. Stillwater High School

Stillwater High School ranks sixth with a graduation rate in the high 80s to low 90s, a strong AP program, and proficiency rates above state averages. Enrolling about 1,900 students in the home city of Oklahoma State University, it offers deep concurrent-enrollment ties to OSU, providing exceptional college access. The school is known for strong STEM, band, and athletics programs, and graduates enroll heavily at Oklahoma State and other four-year universities. The student-teacher ratio is about 17:1.

This school is for families wanting strong academics near Oklahoma State University, benefiting from a college-town academic culture. It trades the broad elective breadth of larger metro schools for a smaller campus, though outcomes trail the largest metro schools. Compared to Edmond Memorial, Stillwater offers superior OSU concurrent-enrollment access but a less extensive arts tradition. Its STEM and band programs are strong, making it a practical choice for students seeking direct university pathways.

7. Owasso High School

Owasso High School ranks seventh with a graduation rate in the high 80s to low 90s, a deep AP and concurrent-enrollment program, and at-or-above-state proficiency rates. Enrolling roughly 2,800 students in the north Tulsa metro, it is known for championship athletics, an acclaimed band, and strong CTE pathways. The large campus supports a wide range of clubs and electives, and graduates enroll at the University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, and regional universities.

This school is for north-Tulsa-metro families wanting large-school resources and a strong balance of academics, arts, and career-technical education. It trades the college-town focus of Stillwater for a larger, more varied environment, though very large enrollment can stretch counseling. Compared to Stillwater High School, Owasso offers more extensive CTE pathways and a larger activities lineup, but slightly less direct university access.

8. Deer Creek High School

Deer Creek High School ranks eighth with a graduation rate in the low 90s, a strong AP program, and proficiency rates above state averages. Enrolling about 1,900 students in the Edmond/northwest Oklahoma City area, it is known for strong STEM, debate, and athletics programs, supported by modern, growing facilities. Graduates enroll at the University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, and out-of-state universities, with concurrent-enrollment options widely used. The student-teacher ratio is about 17:1.

This school is for northwest-OKC-metro families wanting a fast-rising academic school with modern facilities and strong STEM offerings. It trades the established traditions of Owasso for a shorter academic track record, though rapid growth pressures capacity. Compared to Owasso High School, Deer Creek offers a more intimate campus and higher proficiency rates, but a less extensive activities program. Its modern facilities and strong debate and STEM programs make it an attractive, up-and-coming choice.

9. Union High School

Union High School ranks ninth with a graduation rate in the high 80s, a deep AP and concurrent-enrollment program, and proficiency rates that meet or exceed state averages. Enrolling roughly 3,000 students across its upper-grade campus in Tulsa, it is known for championship athletics, a nationally recognized band, and strong fine arts. A wide range of CTE pathways supports career-minded students, and graduates enroll at the University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, and regional universities.

This school is for Tulsa-metro families wanting big-school programs and strong CTE pathways in a large, vibrant environment. It trades the academic focus of Deer Creek for a much larger campus that can dilute attention, though outcomes trail the top academic metro schools. Compared to Deer Creek High School, Union offers a more extensive activities lineup and nationally recognized band, but lower proficiency rates.

10. Bartlesville High School

Bartlesville High School ranks tenth with a graduation rate in the high 80s to low 90s, a solid AP program, and proficiency rates above state averages. Enrolling about 1,800 students in Washington County, it is known for strong STEM and engineering pathways, competitive athletics, and a respected music program. Graduates enroll at the University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, and out-of-state universities, supported by a student-teacher ratio of about 17:1. Concurrent-enrollment options extend college access.

This school is for northeast Oklahoma families wanting strong academics and STEM pathways in a smaller, community-focused setting. It trades the vast program offerings of Union for a more intimate campus, though a smaller metro limits some elective breadth. Compared to Union High School, Bartlesville offers stronger STEM and engineering pathways and higher proficiency rates, but fewer large-school resources. Its respected music program and competitive athletics make it a solid, well-rounded choice for the region.

How we ranked these

We weighted six factors using publicly reported data from U.S. News, Niche, GreatSchools, OSDE, the College Board, and NCES. Academic performance got 25%, college outcomes 20%, value 15%, teachers/resources 15%, environment/safety 15%, and extracurriculars 10%. Schools with strong test scores but low graduation or thin support dropped fast; the winners balanced all six.

We deliberately ignored unverifiable reputation, single-year ranking jumps, and facility upgrades like stadiums. We also excluded private and charter schools since the list focuses on public options. Marketing claims and anecdotal reviews were set aside because they don't reflect measurable student outcomes. Only real, publicly reported data shaped the rankings.

Related questions

What are the top public high schools in Oklahoma City?

In the OKC metro, Edmond North, Edmond Memorial, and Deer Creek are top picks. Edmond North and Memorial offer deep AP programs and strong arts, while Deer Creek is a fast-rising school with modern facilities. All have graduation rates in the low 90s and above-state proficiency.

Which Oklahoma high schools have the best STEM programs?

Booker T. Washington and Norman lead academically, while Jenks, Deer Creek, Stillwater, and Bartlesville offer strong STEM and engineering pathways. Jenks has a nationally known STEM program, and Bartlesville emphasizes engineering. Stillwater benefits from OSU ties.

What is the best high school in Tulsa?

Booker T. Washington is the best in Tulsa, a magnet with a near-95% graduation rate and extensive AP/IB. For non-magnet options, Jenks and Union offer large-school resources, strong athletics, and CTE pathways. Owasso is also a solid north-Tulsa choice.

Are there free public high schools in Oklahoma with dual-credit?

Yes, all ten schools are tuition-free and offer dual-credit. Norman has deep ties to OU, and Stillwater to OSU. Edmond, Jenks, and Owasso also provide broad concurrent-enrollment options, allowing students to earn college credits at no cost.

How does Booker T. Washington compare to Norman High?

Booker T. Washington is a selective magnet with higher test scores and a near-95% graduation rate, making it best overall. Norman High is a comprehensive school with strong OU dual-credit access, offering the best value. Norman's outcomes trail the magnet but still exceed state averages.

What are the largest public high schools in Oklahoma?

Jenks (about 3,400 students), Union (about 3,000), and Owasso (about 2,800) are among the largest. Edmond North enrolls around 2,600. These big schools offer broad electives and activities but can feel impersonal, so check counseling support.

Which Oklahoma high schools have the highest graduation rates?

Booker T. Washington leads with near-95%. Edmond North, Edmond Memorial, Jenks, and Deer Creek all post low-90s rates. Norman and Stillwater are in the high 80s to low 90s. Union is in the high 80s. These rates are from state-reported data.

FAQ

Which is the best public high school in Oklahoma?

Booker T. Washington High School in Tulsa earns our top spot—a magnet with a near-95% graduation rate, extensive AP and IB programming, and elite matriculation to OU, OSU, and national universities. It leads the state on academic rigor and outcomes.

What is the best-value public high school in Oklahoma?

Norman High School is the value leader—a free public school with strong academics and outstanding OU dual-credit access. Its graduation rate is in the high 80s to low 90s, and it offers broad STEM, arts, and athletics, delivering the best outcomes-per-dollar.

Which Oklahoma high schools are strongest in STEM?

Booker T. Washington and Norman lead academically, while Jenks, Deer Creek, Stillwater, and Bartlesville offer strong STEM and engineering pathways. Jenks has nationally known STEM, and Bartlesville emphasizes engineering. Stillwater benefits from OSU's proximity.

Are these schools free to attend?

Yes. All ten are tuition-free public schools funded through Oklahoma's public education system. Families pay only typical activity and supply fees. There are no tuition costs, making them accessible to all residents within their districts.

Which schools offer the best college dual-credit access?

Norman (OU) and Stillwater (OSU) offer the deepest concurrent-enrollment ties. Edmond, Jenks, and Owasso also provide broad options. These partnerships let students earn college credits at no cost, boosting college readiness and saving money.

How were these rankings determined?

We weighted academic performance (25%), college outcomes (20%), value (15%), teachers/resources (15%), environment/safety (15%), and extracurriculars (10%). Data came from U.S. News, Niche, GreatSchools, OSDE, the College Board, and NCES. Schools had to balance all six factors.

What should I look for when choosing a high school?

Compare graduation rates, AP/concurrent-enrollment access, and state proficiency rather than reputation. Check student-teacher ratios and counseling support. Review safety and climate reports. Ensure STEM, arts, athletics, or CTE offerings align with your student's interests. Visit during a school day if possible.

Are there any downsides to large high schools like Jenks or Union?

Large schools offer broad electives and activities but can feel impersonal. Counseling may be stretched, and students might get less individual attention. Competitive athletics cultures aren't for everyone. Still, they provide strong academics and resources if your student is self-motivated.

How do Oklahoma high schools rank nationally?

Booker T. Washington is consistently ranked among the top high schools in the nation by U.S. News. Other Oklahoma schools like Norman, Edmond North, and Jenks also perform well but don't reach the same national prominence. Most rank in the top 20-30% nationally.

Sources

• https://www.usnews.com/education/best-high-schools/oklahoma
• https://www.niche.com/k12/search/best-public-high-schools/s/oklahoma/
• https://www.greatschools.org/oklahoma/
• https://sde.ok.gov
• https://www.collegeboard.org
• https://nces.ed.gov
• https://www.tulsaschools.org
• https://www.normanpublicschools.org
• https://www.edmondschools.net
• https://www.jenksps.org

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