Best Public High Schools in San Antonio

San Antonio boasts some of the finest public high schools in Texas, offering exceptional educational opportunities and diverse programs to foster student success. Here, we highlight the top ten public high schools in San Antonio for 2025, known for their academic excellence, extracurricular activities, and supportive communities.

Brandeis High School

Brandeis High School

Brandeis High School, located at 13011 Kyle Seale Parkway, San Antonio, TX 78249, is part of the Northside Independent School District (NISD). The school specializes in offering a comprehensive academic curriculum with a strong emphasis on Advanced Placement (AP) courses, preparing students for college and career success. Brandeis is also known for its robust athletics programs, including football, basketball, and track and field, among others.

Extracurricular Activities: The school offers a variety of clubs, such as robotics, debate, and theater.

Notable Alumni: Although specific alumni might not be widely known, Brandeis graduates have gone on to achieve success in various fields, reflecting the school's strong academic and extracurricular foundations.

Contact Information:

  • Phone: (210) 397-8200

For detailed information about specific programs, extracurricular activities, and achievements, it's recommended to visit the school's website or contact them directly.

Sandra Day O'Connor High School

Sandra Day O'Connor High School

Sandra Day O'Connor High School is located at 12221 Leslie Road, Helotes, TX 78023. The school is known for its strong academic programs, including a wide selection of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, and it has a robust athletic program with competitive teams in sports like football, soccer, and track.

Specialization

The school emphasizes a well-rounded education with strong academic and extracurricular programs, focusing on college preparation and leadership development.

Notable Alumni

Some alumni have gone on to careers in sports, the arts, and public service, though specific names may vary.

Extracurricular Activities

O'Connor High School offers a variety of clubs, including student government, National Honor Society, robotics, and drama, catering to diverse student interests.

Athletics

The school's athletic program is a major highlight, featuring successful teams in football, basketball, baseball, and other sports, with a strong emphasis on teamwork and sportsmanship.

Faculty

The teaching staff at O'Connor High School is known for being dedicated and supportive, with many teachers holding advanced degrees and having significant experience in their fields. The faculty is committed to student success, both academically and personally.

Parent and Student Reviews

Parents and students generally have positive reviews about the school, praising the quality of education, the variety of extracurricular activities, and the supportive environment. Some concerns mentioned in reviews include the large student population, which can sometimes lead to crowded classrooms and challenges in individualized attention.

Pros

  • Strong academic programs with a variety of AP courses.
  • Excellent sports teams and extracurricular activities.
  • Dedicated teaching staff.
  • Focus on college and career readiness.

Cons

  • Large student body, which can result in crowded classes.
  • Some concerns about the balance between academics and extracurricular demands.

Contact Information:

  • Phone: (210) 397-4800

For more detailed information, you can visit the school's official website or contact them directly.

Northside Health Careers High School

Northside Health Careers High School

Contact Information:

  • Address: 4646 Hamilton Wolfe Rd, San Antonio, TX 78229
  • Phone: (210) 397-5400

Specialization

Northside Health Careers High School (HCHS) specializes in preparing students for careers in health sciences. The curriculum includes rigorous academic courses focused on medical and health-related subjects.

Notable Alumni

HCHS has produced graduates who have gone on to become successful healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and researchers.

Extracurricular Activities

The school offers health-focused clubs like HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America), along with other academic and service-oriented clubs.

Athletics

Due to its specialized focus, HCHS offers limited athletic programs compared to traditional high schools.

Faculty

The faculty at HCHS includes educators with specialized knowledge in health sciences, many of whom have professional experience in the medical field.

Parent and Student Reviews

Parents and students generally praise the school's rigorous academics and focus on health careers. Some mention that the workload can be challenging, and the specialized nature of the school means fewer traditional high school experiences.

Pros

  • Strong focus on health sciences.
  • Excellent preparation for medical careers.
  • Opportunities for hands-on learning through internships and partnerships with local medical institutions.

Cons

  • Limited sports and traditional extracurricular activities.
  • Highly competitive environment with a challenging workload.

Admission Requirements

Admission is competitive, requiring strong academic performance, an application process, and often an interview or essay demonstrating interest in health sciences.

Useful Information for Parents and Students

  • Students should be prepared for a rigorous academic environment.
  • Early exposure to health sciences can be a significant advantage for college and career preparation.
  • Parents should be aware of the demanding curriculum and support their child’s time management and study habits.

For more detailed information, including specific admission criteria and application deadlines, visit the school's official website or contact the admissions office directly.

Alamo Heights High School

Alamo Heights High School

Contact Information:

  • Address: 6900 Broadway St, San Antonio, TX 78209
  • Phone: (210) 820-8850

Specialization

Alamo Heights High School is known for its rigorous academic programs, with a strong emphasis on college preparation. The school offers a wide range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses and has a tradition of academic excellence.

Notable Alumni

The school has produced successful alumni in various fields, including politics, sports, and the arts.

Extracurricular Activities

Alamo Heights offers a variety of clubs, including student government, debate, National Honor Society, and arts programs like band, choir, and theater.

Athletics

The school has a strong athletic program, with competitive teams in sports like football, basketball, soccer, and track. The school’s teams have a history of success in district and state competitions.

Faculty

The faculty at Alamo Heights is highly qualified, with many teachers holding advanced degrees. The staff is dedicated to providing a supportive and challenging learning environment.

Parent and Student Reviews

Parents and students generally give positive reviews, praising the school’s academic rigor, extracurricular opportunities, and supportive community. Some concerns include the pressure of high academic expectations and the competitiveness of the student body.

Pros

  • Strong academic reputation with a wide range of AP courses.
  • Diverse extracurricular activities.
  • Supportive community and faculty.

Cons

  • High academic pressure.
  • Competitive environment that may not suit all students.

Admission Requirements

Admission is generally based on residency within the Alamo Heights Independent School District (AHISD). Non-resident students may apply for transfer, but space is limited.

Useful Information for Parents and Students

  • The school emphasizes college readiness, so students should be prepared for a challenging curriculum.
  • Participation in extracurricular activities is encouraged to foster a well-rounded experience.

Dining

The school provides a variety of meal options in its cafeteria, with a focus on healthy and nutritious meals.

Holidays

The school follows the AHISD calendar, which includes standard holidays such as Thanksgiving, Winter Break, Spring Break, and Summer Vacation.

Tuition

As a public high school, there is no tuition for students living within the district. For out-of-district students, transfer fees may apply.

Neighborhood Prestige

Alamo Heights is located in one of San Antonio’s most prestigious neighborhoods, known for its affluent community, high property values, and excellent public services.

For more detailed information, including specific admission requirements and the school calendar, visit the school’s website or contact the administration directly.

Tom C. Clark High School

Tom C. Clark High School

Contact Information:

  • Address: 5150 De Zavala Rd, San Antonio, TX 78249
  • Phone: (210) 397-5150

Specialization

Clark High School focuses on providing a well-rounded education with strong academic programs, including a wide range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses.

Core Subjects

The school offers core subjects such as English, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, and Foreign Languages, with an emphasis on college readiness.

Notable Alumni

The school has produced successful alumni in various fields, including business, sports, and the arts.

Extracurricular Activities

Clark offers numerous clubs, including debate, robotics, theater, and National Honor Society.

Athletics

The school has a competitive athletics program with teams in football, basketball, soccer, and more, regularly competing in district and state championships.

Faculty

The teaching staff is highly qualified, with many teachers holding advanced degrees and focusing on student success both academically and personally.

Parent and Student Reviews

Reviews are generally positive, highlighting the school’s strong academic programs, supportive teachers, and diverse extracurricular offerings. Some concerns include large class sizes and varying levels of student engagement.

Pros

  • Strong academic programs with a variety of AP courses.
  • Active extracurricular and athletics programs.
  • Supportive faculty.

Cons

  • Large student population, leading to crowded classes.
  • Competitive environment that may be challenging for some students.

Admission Requirements

Admission is primarily based on residency within the Northside Independent School District (NISD). Non-resident students may apply for transfer, but availability is limited.

Useful Information for Parents and Students

  • The school provides a rigorous academic environment, so students should be prepared for a challenging curriculum.
  • Active participation in extracurricular activities is encouraged for a well-rounded high school experience.

Dining

The school offers a variety of meal options in the cafeteria, focusing on healthy and balanced meals.

Holidays

The school follows the NISD calendar, which includes standard holidays such as Thanksgiving, Winter Break, Spring Break, and Summer Vacation.

Tuition

As a public school, there is no tuition for students living within the district. Transfer fees may apply for out-of-district students.

Neighborhood Prestige

Clark High School is located in a well-regarded area of San Antonio, known for its suburban environment with access to various amenities.

Student Age Range

Clark High School serves students in grades 9-12, typically ranging in age from 14 to 18 years old.

For more detailed information, you can visit the school's website or contact them directly.

Johnson High School

Johnson High School

Contact Information:

  • Address: 23203 Bulverde Rd, San Antonio, TX 78259
  • Phone: (210) 356-0400

Specialization

Johnson High School is recognized for its strong academic programs, with a focus on Advanced Placement (AP) courses and college preparation.

Core Subjects

The school offers a comprehensive curriculum including English, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, and Foreign Languages, with a focus on STEM education.

Notable Alumni

The school has produced alumni who have excelled in various fields, though specific notable names might not be widely publicized.

Extracurricular Activities

Johnson High School offers a wide range of clubs, including robotics, debate, National Honor Society, and fine arts programs such as band, choir, and theater.

Athletics

The school has a strong athletic program, with teams in sports like football, basketball, soccer, and track, competing in district and state championships.

Faculty

The faculty is highly qualified, with many teachers holding advanced degrees. They are known for their commitment to student success and fostering a supportive learning environment.

Parent and Student Reviews

Reviews are generally positive, highlighting the school’s academic rigor, supportive teachers, and variety of extracurricular activities. Some concerns include the large student body, which can lead to crowded classes.

Pros

  • Strong academic programs with a focus on college preparation.
  • Extensive extracurricular and athletics programs.
  • Supportive faculty and administration.

Cons

  • Large student population can result in crowded classes and less individualized attention.
  • Competitive environment may be challenging for some students.

Admission Requirements

Admission is primarily based on residency within the North East Independent School District (NEISD). Non-resident students may apply for transfer, subject to space availability.

Useful Information for Parents and Students

  • The school emphasizes college readiness, so students should be prepared for a challenging curriculum.
  • Participation in extracurricular activities is encouraged to enhance the high school experience.

Dining

The school provides a variety of meal options in the cafeteria, focusing on healthy and nutritious meals.

Holidays

Johnson High School follows the NEISD academic calendar, which includes standard holidays such as Thanksgiving, Winter Break, Spring Break, and Summer Vacation.

Tuition

As a public school, there is no tuition for students residing within the district. Transfer fees may apply for out-of-district students.

Neighborhood Prestige

Johnson High School is located in a well-regarded suburban area of San Antonio, known for its safety and access to amenities.

Student Age Range

Johnson High School serves students in grades 9-12, typically ranging in age from 14 to 18 years old.

For more information, you can contact the school directly through the provided phone number or visit in person.

International School of the Americas (ISA)

International School of the Americas (ISA)

Contact Information:

  • Address: 1400 Jackson Keller Rd, San Antonio, TX 78213
  • Phone: (210) 356-0900

Specialization

ISA specializes in global education with a curriculum focused on international studies, cultural awareness, and preparing students for global citizenship.

Core Curriculum

The school offers core subjects such as English, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, and Foreign Languages, all integrated with a global perspective.

Notable Alumni

ISA graduates have pursued careers in international relations, global business, and education, making significant contributions in these fields.

Extracurricular Activities

ISA offers various clubs such as Model United Nations, Global Affairs, environmental clubs, and service organizations, emphasizing leadership and community involvement.

Athletics

As a specialized magnet school, ISA has limited sports programs but partners with neighboring schools for athletic participation.

Teaching Staff

ISA’s faculty is dedicated to international education, with many teachers having experience in global studies or international teaching backgrounds. They are known for encouraging critical thinking and cultural sensitivity.

Parent and Student Reviews

Parents and students often highlight the school's unique global curriculum, strong sense of community, and supportive environment. Some mention that the limited sports offerings and smaller school size could be drawbacks for students seeking a traditional high school experience.

Strengths

  • Strong focus on global education and cultural awareness.
  • Excellent preparation for careers in international fields.
  • Close-knit community and personalized education.

Weaknesses

  • Limited athletic programs and extracurricular activities compared to traditional high schools.
  • Smaller student body, which may limit social opportunities.

Admission Requirements

Admission to ISA is competitive, typically requiring an application that includes essays, recommendations, and academic performance. As a magnet school, ISA admits students based on interest in its global curriculum rather than geographic location.

Useful Information

  • The school promotes experiential learning through international travel and exchange programs.
  • ISA fosters an environment where students are encouraged to think globally and act locally, with a strong emphasis on community service.

Dining

ISA students have access to a variety of meal options through shared facilities with neighboring schools, focusing on healthy choices.

Holidays

The school follows the North East Independent School District (NEISD) calendar, which includes major holidays and seasonal breaks.

Tuition

As a public magnet school, ISA does not charge tuition for students.

Neighborhood and Prestige

Located in a diverse area of San Antonio, ISA is known for its academic rigor and is considered prestigious within the context of global education-focused schools.

Student Age Range

ISA serves students in grades 9 through 12, typically aged 14 to 18, who are interested in pursuing a curriculum centered on international studies.

For more detailed information or specific queries, contacting the school directly via phone is recommended.

Ronald Reagan High School

Ronald Reagan High School

School Contact Information:

  • Address: 19000 Ronald Reagan, San Antonio, TX 78258
  • Phone: (210) 356-1800

School Focus

Ronald Reagan High School excels in providing a rigorous academic program, particularly strong in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) education and the arts.

Core Academic Offerings

The curriculum includes essential subjects such as English, Math, Science, Social Studies, and Foreign Languages, with a focus on Advanced Placement (AP) courses.

Notable Alumni

Graduates from Reagan High have gone on to achieve success in various fields, including professional athletics, arts, and business.

Clubs and Activities

The school hosts a wide range of extracurricular clubs, including debate, robotics, music, and drama, fostering a rich student life.

Athletics Program

Ronald Reagan High School is renowned for its athletic programs, with teams excelling in football, basketball, track, and swimming, regularly competing at state levels.

Faculty and Staff

The faculty at Reagan High is composed of experienced and dedicated educators, many holding advanced degrees. They are known for their commitment to academic excellence and student well-being.

Parent and Student Feedback

Parents and students appreciate the school’s strong academic reputation, variety of extracurricular activities, and supportive teaching staff. However, some note that the competitive environment may be intense for some students.

Advantages

  • Exceptional academic programs, especially in STEM and arts.
  • Strong athletics with state-level competitive teams.
  • Experienced and supportive teaching staff.

Challenges

  • High-pressure environment may not suit every student.
  • Large student population can result in less individualized attention.

Admission Process

Enrollment is primarily based on residency within the North East Independent School District (NEISD). Transfer applications from out-of-district students may be accepted depending on availability.

Key Information for Parents and Students

  • The school provides numerous resources for college and career preparation.
  • Participation in clubs and sports is highly encouraged to enhance the high school experience.

Dining Options

Reagan High offers a variety of meal options in the cafeteria, emphasizing nutritious and balanced meals.

School Holidays

The academic calendar follows the NEISD schedule, including major holidays and seasonal breaks like Winter Break, Spring Break, and Summer Vacation.

Cost of Attendance

As a public school, there is no tuition fee for students residing within the district. Out-of-district transfer fees may apply.

Neighborhood Prestige

Located in an affluent area of San Antonio, Reagan High is situated in a prestigious neighborhood known for its excellent public services and high property values.

Age Range of Students

The school serves students in grades 9-12, typically aged 14 to 18, preparing them for college and beyond.

For further inquiries, contacting the school directly via phone is recommended.

Winston Churchill High School

Winston Churchill High School

School Contact Information:

  • Address: 12049 Blanco Rd, San Antonio, TX 78216
  • Phone: (210) 356-0000

Specialization and Focus

Winston Churchill High School is well-known for its strong academic curriculum and a broad array of extracurricular activities, with particular strengths in fine arts and advanced academic courses.

Core Academic Programs

The school offers essential subjects such as English, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, and Foreign Languages, with a wide selection of Advanced Placement (AP) courses to prepare students for college.

Notable Alumni

Churchill High has produced graduates who have excelled in fields such as entertainment, politics, and sports.

Clubs and Extracurriculars

The school offers various clubs, including debate, robotics, art, and music programs. The fine arts department, particularly band and theater, is highly regarded.

Athletics and Sports Life

Churchill High boasts a competitive athletics program with teams in football, basketball, soccer, and more, often participating in district and state competitions.

Faculty and Teaching Staff

The teaching staff at Churchill is experienced and committed to student success, known for fostering a supportive and challenging learning environment.

Parent and Student Feedback

Parents and students often praise the school’s academic rigor, diverse extracurricular options, and the quality of its fine arts programs. Some concerns include the large student body and occasional overcrowding.

Strengths

  • Diverse academic offerings with strong AP programs.
  • Excellent fine arts and competitive sports teams.
  • Supportive and experienced faculty.

Challenges

  • Large school size can lead to crowded classrooms.
  • Highly competitive environment may be overwhelming for some students.

Admission Process

Admission is typically based on residency within the North East Independent School District (NEISD). Transfer requests from out-of-district students are considered based on space availability.

Useful Information for Parents and Students

  • The school is known for its strong emphasis on college preparation and provides numerous resources for academic and extracurricular development.

Dining and Cafeteria

Churchill High offers a variety of meal options in its cafeteria, focusing on balanced and healthy eating choices.

School Calendar and Holidays

The school follows the NEISD academic calendar, including holidays such as Thanksgiving, Winter Break, Spring Break, and Summer Vacation.

Cost of Attendance

As a public school, there is no tuition for students residing within the district. However, transfer fees may apply for out-of-district students.

Neighborhood and Prestige

Located in a well-established area of San Antonio, the school benefits from a prestigious neighborhood known for its stability and quality public services.

Student Age Range

Winston Churchill High School serves students in grades 9 through 12, typically between the ages of 14 and 18, preparing them for college and career success.

For more detailed information or specific inquiries, contacting the school directly by phone is recommended.

North East School of the Arts (NESA)

North East School of the Arts (NESA)

Contact Information:

  • Address: 1400 Jackson Keller Rd, San Antonio, TX 78213
  • Phone: (210) 356-1033

School Specialization

NESA specializes in fine arts education, offering focused tracks in disciplines such as visual arts, theater, dance, creative writing, and instrumental and vocal music.

Core Curriculum

In addition to specialized arts programs, NESA students complete traditional academic subjects including English, Math, Science, and Social Studies, integrated with their arts education.

Notable Alumni

NESA has produced several successful artists, performers, and writers who have achieved recognition in their respective fields.

Extracurricular Activities

Students can participate in various clubs related to their artistic disciplines, as well as academic and service-oriented clubs.

Athletics

NESA students have limited sports offerings, but they can participate in athletics through their associated home high school.

Teaching Staff

The faculty consists of professional artists and experienced educators dedicated to nurturing creative talent while supporting academic achievement.

Parent and Student Feedback

Feedback often highlights the exceptional arts education and supportive community at NESA. Some parents and students mention the demanding workload and intense competition as challenges.

Strengths

  • Exceptional specialized training in the arts.
  • Strong sense of community and personalized education.
  • Highly qualified faculty with professional industry experience.

Challenges

  • Limited athletic programs and traditional high school experiences.
  • Intense competition and a demanding curriculum may not suit all students.

Admission Requirements

Admission to NESA is competitive and requires an application process, which includes auditions or portfolio reviews depending on the chosen art focus.

Useful Information for Parents and Students

  • Students are encouraged to fully commit to their chosen art discipline while balancing academic responsibilities.
  • Involvement in productions, showcases, and exhibitions is a key part of the NESA experience.

Dining

NESA students have access to meal options through the shared cafeteria facilities with the associated high school.

School Calendar

The school follows the NEISD academic calendar, including standard holidays and breaks such as Winter Break, Spring Break, and Summer Vacation.

Tuition

As a public magnet school, NESA does not charge tuition for enrolled students.

Neighborhood Prestige

Located in a culturally diverse area, NESA is situated within a neighborhood that values arts and education, contributing to its prestige.

Student Age Range

NESA serves students in grades 9-12, typically aged 14 to 18, who are passionate about pursuing arts education alongside traditional academics.

For additional information, reaching out directly via the provided phone number is recommended.

San Antonio's public high schools provide a variety of programs and opportunities to cater to the diverse interests and goals of students. From specialized arts and health careers schools to comprehensive academic and extracurricular programs, each institution offers unique benefits that contribute to student growth and success.

Choosing the right high school is a crucial decision for students and parents alike. On our website, you can like your favorite school, and the more likes a school gets, the higher it will rank among San Antonio's best public high schools. By considering the top public high schools in San Antonio and showing your support, families can ensure they select an institution that aligns with their educational values and aspirations, setting students on a path to achievement and fulfillment.