What are considered the most elite high schools in America?

As I'm planning for college, I came across the concept of feeder schools while doing some research. Just out of curiosity, which high schools are generally considered the most elite or competitive in America?

There are many schools across the U.S that are renowned for their academic rigor and high college placement rate. They encompass a range of public, private, and boarding institutions, each with their unique strengths.

1. Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology in Virginia is an outstanding public magnet school known for its STEM emphasis and rigorous curriculum.

2. Phillips Exeter Academy and Phillips Academy Andover, both located in New Hampshire, are among the oldest and most prestigious boarding schools in the country. They've produced many notable alumni and are recognized for their challenging courses across disciplines.

3. Stuyvesant High School in New York is a public magnet school famous for its competitive admissions and strong emphasis in mathematics, science, and technology.

4. The Harker School in California is a private coed school with a reputation for academic excellence, especially in the sciences, arts, and athletics.

5. University of Chicago Lab Schools and Latin School of Chicago are both private institutions in Illinois known for exceptional academics and sending a substantial number of students to top-tier colleges.

6. Lakeside School in Seattle is another well-regarded private school that combines rigorous academics with a well-rounded education, providing programs in arts and athletics alongside standard academic subjects.

7. Trinity School in New York City is an independent, college preparatory school offering instruction from kindergarten through high school. Known for rigorous academic standards and a high college placement rate.

8. The Dalton School, an independent, college preparatory school in New York City, is also considered one of the country's top high schools. It follows an innovative curriculum known as the Dalton Plan.

It's important to note that although these schools tend to send many students to elite colleges, individual student success is not solely determined by attending an "elite" high school. A dedicated, motivated student can make the most of any high school experience.