Top Ranked Private High Schools Recommendations?

I'm currently a junior considering transferring to a private high school for my senior year to improve my college chances. What are some top-ranked private high schools that have strong reputations and college placement records?

While it's important to ensure you're in a high school environment that is supportive and challenging, keep in mind that transferring schools, especially for your senior year, can potentially add stress and disrupt your academic progression. That being said, if you're set on making this change, here are a few private high schools known for their exceptional college admissions track records, rigorous curricula, and expansive extracurricular opportunities:

1. Phillips Exeter Academy (Exeter, NH): Known for its Harkness teaching method which emphasizes student-centered, discussion-based learning.

2. Phillips Academy Andover (Andover, MA): Offers a broad range of AP courses and a renowned arts program. The school's immense resources include a large museum of American art.

3. Trinity School (New York, NY): Trinity has a rooted history in New York City, with a robust curriculum and access to resources through its location.

4. The Lawrenceville School (Lawrenceville, NJ): Emphasizes House System, creating a close-knit community, and focuses on humanities.

5. Harvard-Westlake School (Los Angeles, CA): Known for extensive resources, its Performing Arts Department, and an impressive list of alumni across various fields.

6. The Harker School (San Jose, CA): Particularly strong in STEM due to its Silicon Valley location.

7. Lakeside School (Seattle, WA): Known for a balanced emphasis on arts and academics with a broad range of extracurriculars.

Remember, the "rank" of your high school is just one of many factors that colleges consider during the admissions process. Your individual academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, personal essays, and teacher recommendations often carry more weight. It's crucial to be in an environment where you can excel and show your strengths. Therefore, consider your potential fit at these schools—academically, personally, and socially—before making the decision to transfer.