News Summary
Two high schools from the Houston Independent School District, Carnegie Vanguard and DeBakey, have been ranked among the best in Texas by U.S. News & World Report, maintaining their reputation for academic excellence despite slight drops in national rankings. Carnegie Vanguard is noted for its elite curriculum for gifted students, while DeBakey specializes in health professions education, both achieving high college success rates among graduates. HISD’s strong showing reflects its commitment to quality education and preparing students for future success.
Houston High Schools Shine in Latest U.S. News Rankings
Houston, Texas – Two high schools from the Houston Independent School District (HISD) have secured prestigious spots in the latest rankings released by U.S. News & World Report. Carnegie Vanguard High School is ranked No. 5 in Texas, while DeBakey High School for Health Professions follows closely at No. 8 in the state’s listings as of 2023. Despite a slight decline in their national rankings this year, both schools continue to be recognized for their excellence in education and student achievement.
National Rankings and Metrics
In the most recent rankings, Carnegie Vanguard High School is positioned at No. 42 nationally, while DeBakey High School ranks No. 75 out of nearly 18,000 high schools across the United States. The rankings utilize six key metrics that assess various aspects of student performance. These metrics include student participation and scores on Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) exams, proficiency on state assessments, success rates among Black, Hispanic, and low-income students, as well as overall graduation rates. The data used for these assessments is derived from the 2022-23 academic year.
Achievements and Specializations
Carnegie Vanguard is distinguished as the only HISD high school exclusively dedicated to gifted and talented students, offering an enhanced learning curriculum that integrates college-level AP courses. This rigorous academic environment has produced impressive outcomes, with over 80% of Carnegie Vanguard’s graduating class of 2018 going on to earn a college degree.
Located in the Texas Medical Center, DeBakey High School stands out as HISD’s sole magnet program with a specific focus on medical and health professions. Established in the 1970s in collaboration with Baylor College of Medicine, DeBakey provides students with hands-on medical training alongside a preceptorship program. Approximately 80% of DeBakey’s graduates attain a college degree within six years of completing high school, reflecting the school’s commitment to preparing students for success in health-related fields.
Houston ISD’s Overall Performance
This year, eight additional HISD high schools also made it into the top 100 public high schools in Texas, showcasing the district’s strong academic performance. The schools include Challenge Early College High School at 18, Kinder High School for the Performing and Visual Arts at 21, and Young Women’s College Preparatory Academy at 27. Other notable institutions are Eastwood Academy (31), East Early College High School (66), Sharpstown International School (77), Energy Institute High School (83), and Houston Academy for International Studies (86). Notably, Challenge Early College, Kinder, and Young Women’s College Prep also appeared in the top 200 nationwide rankings.
Focus on Informed Choices
U.S. News & World Report highlighted the importance of providing data to assist students and families in making informed educational decisions. The rankings serve as a resource for parents and students looking to evaluate high school options based on performance metrics, thus promoting accountability and transparency within the education system.
Looking Ahead
As the 2023 rankings demonstrate, HISD high schools continue to excel and set high standards for educational achievement in both Texas and the nation. With continued focus on enhancing education quality, these institutions are vital in shaping the futures of their students and contributing positively to the community.
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Additional Resources
- U.S. News & World Report: Best High Schools in Texas
- Wikipedia: Houston Independent School District
- Houston Chronicle: Texas Schools
- Google Search: High School Rankings Texas
- Encyclopedia Britannica: High School
- Houston Independent School District Official Website
Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
HOUSTON STAFF WRITER The HOUSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHouston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Houston, Harris County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Art Car Parade, and Chevron Houston Marathon. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Houston Partnership and Houston Area Urban League, plus leading businesses in energy and healthcare that power the local economy such as ExxonMobil, Schlumberger, and Houston Methodist. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
