Choosing the right school for your child is one of the most important decisions a parent can make. In Idaho, there are numerous high-performing schools across public, private, and charter systems. This guide highlights the top-ranked schools in Idaho based on academic performance, student reviews, college readiness, and other key metrics. Each entry includes contact information , so you can reach out directly to learn more.
Whether you’re relocating, enrolling your child, or simply researching options, this list will help you find the best schools in Idaho that align with your educational goals.
Why School Rankings Matter
School rankings offer insight into academic excellence, teacher qualifications, student-teacher ratios, extracurricular opportunities, and overall school environment. While no ranking system is perfect, platforms like Niche , U.S. News & World Report , and GreatSchools.org provide reliable data that parents use to compare schools across the country.
In Idaho, many schools have consistently ranked among the best in the Mountain West region. Let’s explore some of the top-performing schools in Idaho as of the latest available data.
🥇 Top 10 Ranked Schools in Idaho
1. Riverstone International School – Boise
- Type: Private
- Grades: K–12
- Ranking Source: Niche A+ Rating
- Why It’s Ranked High: Small class sizes, international curriculum, strong STEM and arts programs.
- Contact:
📞 (208) 375-7500
🌐 www.riverstoneschool.org
2. The Ambrose School – Meridian
- Type: Private (Christian)
- Grades: K–12
- Ranking Source: Niche A+ Rating
- Why It’s Ranked High: Classical education model, high college acceptance rates, and rigorous academics.
- Contact:
📞 (208) 888-9990
🌐 www.ambroseschool.org
3. Mountain View High School – Meridian
- Type: Public
- Grades: 9–12
- Ranking Source: U.S. News & World Report
- Why It’s Ranked High: Strong STEM focus, AP course availability, and high graduation rates.
- Contact:
📞 (208) 350-4300
🌐 www.svvsd.org/mountainview
4. North Junior High School – Boise
- Type: Public
- Grades: 6–8
- Ranking Source: GreatSchools.org
- Why It’s Ranked High: Excellent test scores, dedicated staff, and inclusive learning environment.
- Contact:
📞 (208) 854-4000
🌐 www.boiseschools.org/north
5. Timberline High School – Boise
- Type: Public
- Grades: 9–12
- Ranking Source: Niche & U.S. News
- Why It’s Ranked High: Strong college prep program, diverse student body, and robust arts and athletics.
- Contact:
📞 (208) 854-6000
🌐 www.boiseschools.org/timberline
6. Parma High School – Parma
- Type: Public
- Grades: 9–12
- Ranking Source: Idaho State Department of Education
- Why It’s Ranked High: High student engagement, community involvement, and solid academic performance.
- Contact:
📞 (208) 886-4300
🌐 www.parmaschools.org
7. Catalyst Charter Academy – Boise
- Type: Charter
- Grades: K–8
- Ranking Source: GreatSchools.org
- Why It’s Ranked High: Focused on personalized learning, high parental involvement, and innovative teaching methods.
- Contact:
📞 (208) 344-3900
🌐 www.catalystcharter.org
8. St. Mary’s Catholic School – Boise
- Type: Private (Catholic)
- Grades: PreK–8
- Ranking Source: Niche A Rating
- Why It’s Ranked High: Emphasis on values-based education, small classes, and strong academic standards.
- Contact:
📞 (208) 343-8124
🌐 www.stmarysboise.org
9. Eagle Academy – Eagle
- Type: Charter
- Grades: K–12
- Ranking Source: U.S. News & World Report
- Why It’s Ranked High: College preparatory focus, advanced placement courses, and high student achievement.
- Contact:
📞 (208) 939-2800
🌐 www.eagleacademy.edu
10. Preston High School – Preston
- Type: Public
- Grades: 9–12
- Ranking Source: Idaho State Board of Education
- Why It’s Ranked High: Strong community ties, excellent ACT/SAT scores, and active student leadership.
- Contact:
📞 (208) 852-3111
🌐 www.prestonschools.org
How to Choose the Right School for Your Child
When selecting a school, consider the following factors:
- Academic Performance: Look at standardized test scores, graduation rates, and college admissions statistics.
- Extracurricular Activities: Sports, clubs, music, and arts programs enhance student development.
- Class Size: Smaller classes often mean more individualized attention.
- Location and Transportation: Consider proximity and commute times.
- Special Needs Support: Ensure the school offers appropriate resources if needed.
- Parental Involvement: Schools with active PTA/PTO groups often have better outcomes.
Types of Schools in Idaho
Public Schools
Funded by the government and free to attend. Governed by local school districts.
Charter Schools
Publicly funded but independently operated. Often have unique educational philosophies.
Private Schools
Tuition-based institutions offering religious, alternative, or specialized curricula.
Online Schools
Virtual learning environments ideal for flexible schedules or remote locations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are charter schools free in Idaho?
A: Yes, charter schools are publicly funded and tuition-free.
Q: What is the best way to compare Idaho schools?
A: Use tools like Niche, GreatSchools, and the Idaho State Department of Education website.
Q: Do private schools perform better academically than public schools in Idaho?
A: Many do, but it varies by institution. Always review individual school data.
Q: Can non-residents enroll in Idaho schools?
A: Some schools allow open enrollment; check with the specific district or institution.
Conclusion
Finding the best schools in Idaho requires research, visits, and understanding what works best for your child. The schools listed above represent some of the highest-ranked institutions across different categories, offering quality education and supportive learning environments.
Be sure to contact each school directly using the provided phone numbers and websites to get the most up-to-date information on enrollment, programs, and tours.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with other parents and educators who may be navigating Idaho’s school landscape.
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