Toughest high school in the U.S.?

I'm in the process of high school hunting and I've been curious about which high schools in the U.S. are considered the most challenging academically. Any suggestions would be appreciated, and pointers on why they are considered difficult would also help a lot.

Determining the "toughest" high school in the U.S. can depend on several factors like academic rigor, factors like student-to-teacher ratio, coursework, and sometimes standardized test scores. However, few high schools that are often cited for their challenging academic environments are:

1. Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) in Alexandria, Virginia: It's known for its rigorous offerings in STEM and requires students to complete an entrance exam in order to get accepted.

2. Stuyvesant High School in New York City: This public magnet school offers specialized, intensive courses in several areas, including the sciences, math, technology, and humanities. Admissions are extremely competitive, with entrance granted based on the Specialized High School Admissions Test (SHSAT).

3. Northside College Preparatory High School in Chicago: It's a selective public school known for its rigorous coursework and active student participation in extracurriculars.

4. The Davidson Academy in Reno, Nevada: This public school is for profoundly gifted middle and high school students. The school provides personal education plans to meet the individual needs of each student.

5. The Harker School in San Jose, California: Known for its strong emphasis on math and science, this private school also offers comprehensive courses in the humanities and arts.

6. Phillips Exeter Academy in Exeter, New Hampshire: This boarding school employs a unique Harkness teaching method, which emphasizes discussion and problem-solving in a classroom setting.

Remember, however, this is only a shortlist. The "toughest" school will largely depend on the academic strengths of a student. It's crucial to think about the academic environment you thrive in, the access to advanced classes or programs, student-to-teacher ratio, and opportunities for enrichment outside the classroom. Also, make sure to factor in geographic location, extracurricular offerings, and the general school culture!