Ranking the most elite high schools in the USA

Hey guys! I've been doing a lot of thinking about high school education in the US. Specifically, does anyone have insights into what the most elite high schools are in the country? I'm curious to know what's evaluated when designating a school as 'elite.' Does it have more to do with prestige, funding, the quality of education, or maybe even something else entirely?

Determining the 'elite' high schools usually considers a combination of factors. However, it's often subjective and can vary depending on who you ask.

Academic Excellence: This usually comes first. Schools renowned for high SAT/ACT scores, high AP/IB participation and pass rates, and a high percentage of students attending top colleges and universities are typically considered among the best.

Student Outcomes: Schools that have a high graduation rate and a high college acceptance rate are often considered elite. This demonstrates that the school is supportive, effective in preparing its students for the future, and successful at sending them off to good colleges.

Extracurricular Opportunities: Schools that afford students with opportunities to excel outside the classroom – whether it's in the sciences, mathematics, the arts, athletics, or community service – often stand out from the rest.

Teacher Quality: Student-teacher ratios and how much experience and education the teachers have, can also significantly influence a school's standing.

Overall, finding an 'elite' high school is much about finding a school that matches the student's academic interests and social needs, so rankings should be supplemented with personal research into programs, culture, and student support services. For example, some might argue that the prestigious Phillips Exeter Academy in New Hampshire or Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology in Virginia are among the elite due to their selective admissions, robust course offerings, and history of successful alumni.