Top Public High Schools in Manhattan, NY

Stuyvesant High School is a highly competitive and prestigious public high school located in Battery Park City, known for its rigorous curriculum focused on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). It attracts some of New York City’s brightest students, offering an intellectually stimulating environment designed to prepare them for top universities and careers in demanding fields. The school boasts state-of-the-art facilities and a dedicated faculty committed to fostering critical thinking and innovation. Its vibrant student body engages in a myriad of clubs and extracurriculars, ranging from robotics to debate, contributing to a holistic educational experience. Stuyvesant is more than just a school; it’s a community where academic excellence and personal growth are paramount.

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance

Manhattan / Hunter Science High School, nestled in the Upper West Side near Lincoln Center, offers a dynamic and challenging environment for students passionate about science. This school is a collaboration with Hunter College, providing students with unique opportunities for advanced studies and access to college-level resources. The curriculum is designed to foster a deep understanding of scientific principles and research methodologies, encouraging students to explore complex topics and develop critical analytical skills. Its location within a cultural hub also enriches the student experience, allowing for exposure to various arts and intellectual events. The school prides itself on its supportive community and personalized attention, preparing students for success in STEM fields and higher education.

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance

Eleanor Roosevelt High School, situated on the Upper East Side, is celebrated for its strong academic foundation and vibrant community spirit. This school emphasizes a rigorous liberal arts curriculum, encouraging students to excel across various disciplines. Known for its challenging coursework and commitment to intellectual inquiry, Eleanor Roosevelt High School prepares students for admission to selective colleges and universities. The atmosphere is highly supportive, with teachers dedicated to student success and a range of extracurricular activities that cater to diverse interests, from performing arts to academic clubs. It’s a place where students are encouraged to think critically, express themselves creatively, and become engaged global citizens.

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance

Beacon High School, located in Hell’s Kitchen, is renowned for its progressive, performance-based learning approach. Instead of traditional exams, students demonstrate their understanding through projects, presentations, and portfolios, fostering deeper engagement and critical thinking. This innovative educational model encourages creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving, preparing students for the demands of higher education and modern careers. The school boasts a diverse and inclusive community, offering a wide array of arts and athletic programs alongside its robust academic offerings. Beacon’s commitment to personalized learning and empowering student voice creates a unique and highly effective educational experience in the heart of Midtown West.

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance

Baruch College Campus High School offers a distinctive collegiate experience for its students, situated adjacent to Baruch College in the Flatiron District. This unique partnership allows students to take college-level courses and utilize university facilities, providing an invaluable head start on their higher education journey. The school is known for its strong academic rigor, particularly in business, finance, and liberal arts, preparing students for a competitive academic landscape. The atmosphere fosters intellectual curiosity and a sense of responsibility, encouraging students to actively participate in their learning and community. It’s an ideal environment for motivated individuals seeking an early immersion into college life.

Parking options

• ✔ Paid street parking

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance

Located within the historic City College of New York campus in Hamilton Heights, the High School for Mathematics, Science and Engineering provides an unparalleled educational experience for aspiring scientists and engineers. This specialized high school offers an accelerated curriculum in STEM fields, challenging students with advanced coursework and opportunities for hands-on research. The close proximity to City College grants students access to university resources, including laboratories and faculty mentorship, enriching their academic journey. The school cultivates an atmosphere of innovation and inquiry, fostering a community of bright, driven students who are passionate about making scientific contributions. It’s a stepping stone for future leaders in technology and scientific discovery.

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance

Millennium High School, located in the Financial District, offers a unique urban educational experience with a strong emphasis on academic rigor and civic engagement. Situated in the heart of Lower Manhattan, the school provides students with a distinctive perspective on city life and access to numerous cultural and business institutions. Its curriculum is designed to challenge students intellectually, promoting critical thinking and a global outlook. The school fosters a close-knit community where students are encouraged to pursue diverse interests through a wide range of extracurricular activities and community service initiatives. Millennium High School is dedicated to developing well-rounded, responsible citizens prepared for leadership and lifelong learning.

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance

Art and Design High School, situated in Midtown East, stands as a premier institution for young artists and designers. This specialized school provides a rich and comprehensive curriculum blending rigorous academics with intensive training in various art disciplines, including fashion, illustration, graphic design, and fine arts. Students are immersed in a creative environment where they can hone their skills under the guidance of experienced artists and educators. The school encourages individuality and artistic expression, preparing graduates for top art colleges and creative careers. Its central Manhattan location offers unparalleled access to museums, galleries, and industry professionals, enriching the practical learning experience and fostering a dynamic atmosphere.

Good for Children

• ✔ Yes

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance

Manhattan Bridges High School, located in the vibrant Hell’s Kitchen neighborhood, is dedicated to serving a diverse student population, with a particular focus on recent immigrants and English language learners. The school offers a supportive and nurturing environment, providing tailored academic and social programs to ensure every student can succeed. Its curriculum is designed to bridge cultural and linguistic gaps, empowering students with the skills and confidence needed to thrive in New York City’s complex educational landscape. Manhattan Bridges High School prides itself on fostering a strong sense of community, celebrating cultural diversity, and preparing students for college and career readiness through personalized attention and robust support services.

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance

Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts, famously known as LaGuardia High School, is an iconic institution located near Lincoln Center on the Upper West Side. It is a specialized high school renowned for its exceptional programs in music, dance, drama, and visual arts, while also maintaining a strong academic curriculum. Aspiring artists from across the city audition to gain entry, immersing themselves in an environment that nurtures creativity and artistic discipline. The school offers unparalleled training in the performing and visual arts, alongside a robust academic program, ensuring students are prepared for both collegiate studies and professional careers in the arts. It’s a vibrant hub where young talent flourishes.

Parking options

• ✔ Paid street parking

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance

Park East High School, located in East Harlem, is committed to providing a supportive and engaging learning environment for its students. The school focuses on a well-rounded education that prepares students for college and career success. It emphasizes strong academic foundational skills, alongside opportunities for personal growth and community involvement. Park East High School prides itself on its dedicated staff who provide individualized attention to students, fostering an atmosphere where every student feels valued and supported. The school actively promotes critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration, aiming to empower its diverse student body to become active and successful members of society. It’s a community-focused institution dedicated to nurturing potential.

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance

Frank McCourt High School, situated on the Upper West Side, offers a humanities-focused curriculum inspired by its namesake, the Pulitzer Prize-winning author Frank McCourt. The school emphasizes critical reading, writing, and analytical skills, encouraging students to explore literature, history, and social sciences deeply. It fosters an intimate and intellectual atmosphere where students are encouraged to engage in lively discussions and express their ideas thoughtfully. The dedicated faculty aims to cultivate a love for learning and a strong sense of intellectual curiosity. This high school is ideal for students who thrive in a smaller, academic environment and aspire to excel in fields requiring strong communication and analytical abilities.

Manhattan International High School, located on the Upper East Side, is uniquely designed to support newly arrived immigrant students and English language learners. The school offers a highly supportive and culturally sensitive environment, with a curriculum specifically tailored to help students transition into the American educational system while developing strong English proficiency and academic skills. It fosters a vibrant international community where students’ diverse backgrounds are celebrated and integrated into the learning experience. Dedicated staff provide extensive support, ensuring students not only achieve academic success but also adapt socially and emotionally. It’s a vital institution dedicated to empowering global citizens in New York City.

Lower East Side Preparatory High School, situated in a culturally rich neighborhood, is committed to providing a strong academic foundation and a supportive community for its diverse student body. The school specializes in helping students, particularly those who may have faced academic challenges or are new to the country, achieve their full potential. With a focus on individualized attention and comprehensive support services, it aims to prepare students for college and future careers. The curriculum is designed to build essential skills while fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment. It’s a beacon of hope and opportunity, empowering students to overcome obstacles and pursue their educational aspirations.

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance

Columbia Secondary School for Math, Science, and Engineering (CSS) is an innovative institution located in West Harlem, offering a challenging program for intellectually curious students. As a partnership with Columbia University, CSS provides an advanced curriculum in STEM, along with a robust liberal arts education. Students benefit from access to university resources, including faculty and state-of-the-art facilities, fostering a deep engagement with scientific inquiry and engineering principles. The school cultivates a dynamic learning environment where creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration are highly valued. It is dedicated to preparing its students for success in leading universities and future careers in scientific and technical fields.

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance

Emma Lazarus High School, located in the Lower East Side, serves a unique mission, primarily educating newly arrived immigrant students and English language learners. Named after the poet whose words adorn the Statue of Liberty, the school embodies a spirit of welcome and opportunity. It offers a specialized curriculum designed to rapidly enhance English proficiency while maintaining strong academic standards across subjects. The supportive faculty and staff create an inclusive and nurturing environment where students from diverse cultural backgrounds can thrive. Emma Lazarus High School is dedicated to helping its students successfully integrate into American society and prepare for higher education or vocational paths, fostering a sense of belonging and achievement.

Parking options

• ✔ Paid street parking

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance

The School of the Future (SoF), nestled in the Gramercy Park area, is an innovative institution focused on preparing students for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. SoF is known for its progressive pedagogical approach, emphasizing technology integration, project-based learning, and a collaborative environment. The curriculum encourages interdisciplinary studies and critical thinking, empowering students to become creative problem-solvers and independent learners. The school prides itself on fostering a strong sense of community and individualized support, ensuring that students are well-equipped for higher education and future careers in a rapidly evolving world. It is a forward-thinking school dedicated to nurturing adaptable and engaged citizens.

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance