The Top 10 High Schools in the Bronx

Some of the best schools in New York state, and even in the United States, are located in the Bronx, New York City. From schools specializing in the arts to college preparatory programs, you can find it all in the Bronx.

High School of American Studies at Lehman College

The High School of American Studies at Lehman College is a collaborative college preparatory program sponsored by the New York City Department of Education, Lehman College and the City University of New York. The school strives to provide students with a comprehensive education designed to prepare them for the multicultural college level learning experience. The High School of American Studies at Lehman College is small, with fewer than 400 students in grades 9 to 12, and entrance is highly competitive. The High School of American Studies at Lehman College has been ranked as the number 19 high school in the United States by "US World and News Report."

Bronx High School of Science

Bronx High School of Science, also known as Bronx Science, is a specialized public high school focusing on math and the sciences, although students receive a complete education in all subject areas. Students from all over New York City are welcome to attend Bronx Science, although the application process is rigorous and competitive, and students must score highly on an entrance exam to be offered admission. Bronx High School of Science was rated number 58 in the United States by "US News and World Report."

Bronx Engineering and Technology Academy

The Bronx Engineering and Technology Academy is a public school focusing on the study of engineering and its application in the world. The school strives to provide students with critical thinking and problem-solving skills through the use of technology and engineering. While there is a focus on engineering programs, students do receive comprehensive background study in all subject areas. Students who graduate from Bronx Engineering and Technology Academy are prepared to attend college as technologically literate students, and generally enjoy success in a number of subjects, even outside the sciences. The school is small and entrance is difficult; only 422 students make up the school's 9th to 12th grades.

Collegiate Institute for Math and Science

Collegiate Institute for Math and Science is a college preparatory program focusing on math and sciences. Students are required to select a course of study that includes four years of math education, four years of science education, a four year foreign language program and some study of the English language and social studies. The school has less than 500 full time students. In 2009, less than 125 students were accepted out of the over 1,500 who applied to attend.

Hostos-Lincoln Academy of Science

Hostos-Lincoln Academy of Science is a public school operating, in part, under the direction of Hostos Community College and the City University of New York. Students apply to Hostos-Lincoln Academy of Science in middle school, and attend for all four years of high school. Hostos-Lincoln strives to prepare students for college attendance, and does so by offering a full course of study in the arts, math, science and foreign language. Students who attend Hostos-Lincoln Academy of Science have full access to Hostos Community College resources including the library, clubs, sports and activities. Students may also take free college courses and use them to obtain an associate's degree after high school graduation.

Riverdale / Kingsbridge Academy (Middle School / High School 141)

Riverdale/Kingsbridge Academy (Middle School/High School 141) is a middle school and high school program that focuses on a liberal arts-based education. The school acts as a preparatory program. Younger students prepare for high school, while older students prepare for college. Although it is quite selective, the Riverdale/Kingsbridge Academy tries to be accommodating to students who may not be interested in math or the sciences.

High School of Contemporary Arts

The High School of Contemporary Arts combines the use of technology with a core curriculum focusing on the arts. Students focus on developing their personal interest and skills within the arts, which in turn allows them to act as successful participants in their communities. 455 students attend High School of Contemporary Arts, which serves grades 9 to 12.

Pelham Preparatory Academy

Pelham Preparatory Academy, opened in 2002, is a college prep program located within Christopher Columbus High School. The school draws students from the community who are serious about attending college. Classroom education uses a combination of traditional teaching methods, such as group instruction, with more innovative technologies, like combining classes and using more than one teacher. There are 480 students attending the Pelham Preparatory Academy.

Bronx Aerospace High School

Bronx Aerospace High School has a curriculum designed to train students for a career in aerospace. Beginning two weeks before the start of 9th grade, students begin orientation. At this time, they are paired with an older student who becomes their mentor for the next two years. Students at Bronx Aerospace High School can choose from three paths of study: to train as a pilot, to train in air traffic control or to take general college prep classes. All students are required to wear a black pilot's uniform.

Wings Academy

Wings Academy focuses on modern principals of education, such as small class size, one-on-one instruction, and assessment based on each student's individual performance, in addition to standardized tests. The name "Wings" is an acronym to help students remember what they need to achieve in education and in life: Willingness to work hard; Initiative; New ways of learning; Growth; and Service.