David Go
Queens, New York, is a borough celebrated for its incredible diversity and vibrant communities, offering a rich tapestry of educational opportunities for high school students. From specialized science academies to comprehensive community schools, the high schools in Queens are dedicated to fostering academic excellence, personal growth, and preparing students for future success. This guide provides an in-depth look at some of the top high schools across Queens, detailing their unique offerings, campus highlights, and essential information to help prospective students and families make informed decisions. Discover institutions that blend rigorous academics with a supportive environment, ensuring every student finds their path to thrive.
Maspeth High School
Maspeth High School stands as a beacon of academic rigor and community spirit in Elmhurst, Queens. Known for its challenging curriculum and dedicated faculty, the school fosters an environment where students are encouraged to excel both inside and outside the classroom. With a strong emphasis on preparing students for college and careers, Maspeth High provides a supportive atmosphere that celebrates individual achievements and promotes collaborative learning. The school’s commitment to a well-rounded education ensures that students develop critical thinking skills, a passion for learning, and a sense of responsibility to their community. Its location offers easy access for families within the vibrant Maspeth and Elmhurst neighborhoods, making it a central point for educational excellence.
Type
- ✔ High school
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
Queens High School for the Sciences
Queens High School for the Sciences, located within York College in Jamaica, offers an exceptional educational pathway for students passionate about STEM fields. This specialized high school provides a rigorous and innovative curriculum designed to challenge and inspire future scientists, engineers, and healthcare professionals. The school benefits from its unique affiliation with York College, providing students with access to advanced resources and a collegiate atmosphere from an early age. Its focus on hands-on learning, research opportunities, and advanced coursework ensures that graduates are well-prepared for top universities and competitive careers in scientific disciplines. The supportive faculty and like-minded peer community create an enriching environment for intellectual exploration and academic success.
Type
- ✔ High school
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
Bayside High School
Bayside High School is a large, comprehensive public high school in the Bayside neighborhood of Queens, known for its diverse academic programs and vibrant extracurricular scene. With a long-standing history of educational excellence, Bayside High offers a wide range of courses, including AP and honors classes, as well as specialized academies that cater to various student interests, such as performing arts, business, and global studies. The school prides itself on fostering a supportive and inclusive community where students can explore their passions, develop leadership skills, and achieve their full potential. Its expansive campus and numerous athletic facilities provide ample opportunities for students to engage in sports and other activities, contributing to a well-rounded and dynamic high school experience.
Type
- ✔ High school
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
Francis Lewis High School
Francis Lewis High School in Fresh Meadows, Queens, is renowned for its large and diverse student body and a commitment to providing a rich educational experience. The school offers a broad spectrum of academic programs, including a highly regarded JROTC program, numerous AP courses, and career and technical education pathways. Francis Lewis cultivates an environment that encourages academic achievement, civic engagement, and personal development. Students benefit from a wide array of extracurricular activities, clubs, and sports teams, allowing them to explore interests and build strong community ties. The dedicated faculty and comprehensive support services ensure that students are well-prepared for post-secondary education and successful careers, embodying a spirit of excellence and opportunity.
Type
- ✔ High school
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
Aviation High School
Aviation High School in Long Island City is a specialized public high school offering a unique curriculum focused on aviation maintenance and technology. It provides students with hands-on training and theoretical knowledge in various aspects of aerospace, preparing them for careers as licensed aircraft mechanics or for further education in aviation fields. The school boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including aircraft hangers and specialized workshops, providing an immersive learning environment. Students gain practical experience that is highly valued in the industry, making it an excellent choice for those with a keen interest in aviation. The rigorous academic program combined with vocational training offers a distinct advantage, fostering a community of skilled and dedicated young professionals.
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
Amenities
- ✔ Has restroom
John Bowne High School
John Bowne High School, situated in Kew Gardens Hills, is a dynamic institution recognized for its strong agricultural and animal science programs, a rarity among urban high schools. Beyond its unique vocational offerings, the school provides a comprehensive academic curriculum, including numerous AP courses and a range of electives. The atmosphere at John Bowne is one of inclusivity and active engagement, where students are encouraged to explore their interests and develop their talents. With a vibrant array of clubs, sports, and community service opportunities, students have ample avenues for personal growth and leadership. The school’s commitment to preparing students for diverse post-secondary paths, whether in higher education or specialized careers, makes it a notable choice in Queens.
Type
- ✔ High school
Parking options
- ✔ Free street parking
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible restroom
Townsend Harris High School
Townsend Harris High School, located on the campus of Queens College, is a highly selective public high school renowned for its rigorous liberal arts curriculum and exceptional academic standards. Often ranked among the top high schools in the nation, Townsend Harris cultivates an intense intellectual environment where students are challenged to think critically and creatively. The school emphasizes a classical education combined with modern pedagogical approaches, preparing students for admission to highly competitive universities. Its unique partnership with Queens College provides students with opportunities for advanced coursework and exposure to a collegiate setting. The close-knit community, strong alumni network, and unwavering commitment to academic excellence create a supportive yet demanding atmosphere where motivated students consistently achieve outstanding results.
Type
- ✔ High school
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
Queens, NY, truly stands out as a hub for diverse and high-quality high school education. The institutions highlighted here, from the science-focused academies to those with robust career and technical programs, exemplify the borough’s commitment to nurturing young minds. Each school offers a unique atmosphere and curriculum designed to meet varied student needs and aspirations. When considering high schools in Queens, families can be confident in finding a supportive and enriching environment that will prepare students not just for college or career, but for a lifetime of learning and achievement.
