Choosing the right high school for your child is a big decision that can shape their entire future. In Washtenaw County, 10 schools rank as the best, providing outstanding results.

Niche, a trusted platform for school rankings, has analyzed and graded the top public high schools in Washtenaw County. These rankings are based on crucial factors such as state test scores, teacher effectiveness, student-teacher ratios and school diversity.

Best public high schools in Washtenaw County

Washtenaw International High School, Ypsilanti (A+)

• Address: 105 N Mansfield St., Ypsilanti
• School District: Washtenaw Intermediate School District
• Why It Stands Out: Washtenaw International High School offers an International Baccalaureate (IB) program that emphasizes global learning and critical thinking. The school provides a rigorous academic environment with a focus on preparing students for international challenges.

Opened in 2007, Washtenaw International High School was created to provide a unique educational experience that prepares students for a global society. It has quickly gained recognition for its innovative approach to education.

Pioneer High School, Ann Arbor (A+)

• Address: 601 W Stadium Blvd., Ann Arbor
• School District: Ann Arbor Public Schools
• Why It Stands Out: Pioneer High School is celebrated for its academic programs, including a variety of AP courses and extracurricular activities. The school has a rich history and a commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment.

Founded in 1856 as Union School, Pioneer High School has a long-standing tradition of academic excellence. The current building, opened in 1956, continues to serve as a cornerstone of education in the Ann Arbor community. 

Huron High School, Ann Arbor (A+)

• Address: 2727 Fuller Rd., Ann Arbor
• School District: Ann Arbor Public Schools
• Why It Stands Out: Huron High School is known for its high performing students and dedicated teachers.

Established in 1969, Huron High School was built to accommodate the growing population in Ann Arbor. The school’s design, featuring a distinctive “H” shape, has become an iconic part of the city’s educational landscape.

Community High School, Ann Arbor (A+)

• Address: 401 N Division St., Ann Arbor
• School District: Ann Arbor Public Schools
• Why It Stands Out: Community High School offers a unique educational experience with a focus on student autonomy and community involvement. The school’s open campus and flexible learning environment set it apart from traditional high schools.

Established in 1972, Community High School was one of the first public magnet schools in the country.

Skyline High School, Ann Arbor (A+)

• Address: 2552 North Maple Rd., Ann Arbor
• School District: Ann Arbor Public Schools
• Why It Stands Out: Skyline High School is distinguished by its innovative educational approach, offering a blend of rigorous academics and a commitment to environmental sustainability. The school’s design incorporates geothermal heating and cooling systems, as well as onsite stormwater management, reflecting its dedication to eco-friendly practices.

Approved by voters in 2004 as part of the Ann Arbor Public Schools’ Comprehensive School Improvement Program, Skyline High School opened its doors in 2008. Initially serving only freshmen, the school expanded each year, graduating its first senior class in 2012. The naming process involved a diverse committee of students, parents, and educators, who chose the name “Skyline” to reflect the school’s scenic views. The mascot, “The Eagles,” and the school colors, Columbia Blue and White, were selected to complement the Skyline theme.

Saline High School, Saline (A)

• Address: 1300 Campus Parkway, Saline
• District: Saline Area Schools
• Why It Stands Out: Saline High School is renowned for its academics, ranking 20th among Michigan high schools by U.S. News. The school has a wide array of extracurricular activities, including over 30 student clubs and a robust athletic program. Notably, the school’s auditorium is a hub for cultural and artistic events.

Established in 2004, Saline High School relocated to its current 510,000-square-foot facility in Pittsfield Township. The school serves as a cornerstone of the Saline Area Schools district, which has a rich history of educational excellence.

Early College Alliance, Ypsilanti (A)

• Address: 220 King Hall, Ypsilanti
• District: Washtenaw Intermediate School District
• Why It Stands Out: ECA offers a unique dual-enrollment program, allowing students to earn both high school and college credits simultaneously. This innovative approach provides students with a head start on higher education and is part of Ypsilanti Community Schools’ commitment to academic excellence.

Founded as a collaboration between Ypsilanti Community Schools and Eastern Michigan University, ECA was established to provide advanced educational opportunities to high school students. The program has grown to serve a diverse student body, reflecting the district’s dedication to innovation in education.

Dexter High School, Dexter (A)

• Address: 2200 North Parker Road, Dexter
• District: Dexter Community Schools
• Why It Stands Out: Dexter High School is distinguished by its high graduation rate of 99% and a diverse range of academic offerings, including 10 Advanced Placement (AP) courses and 19 International Baccalaureate (IB) courses. The school also has a strong tradition in science competitions, with its National Ocean Science Bowl team placing second nationally in 2015.

Originally located in what is now Creekside Intermediate School, Dexter High School moved to its current location in 2002 to accommodate growing student enrollment. The school is part of Dexter Community Schools, which has a history dating back to 1950.

Chelsea High School, Chelsea (A-)

• Address: 740 North Freer Rd., Chelsea
• District: Chelsea School District
• Why It Stands Out: Chelsea High School is known for its active student body and well-rounded educational experience.

Chelsea High School is part of the Chelsea School District, which has a long-standing commitment to providing quality education.

Milan High School, Milan (B+)

• Address: 200 Big Red Dr., Milan
• District: Milan Area Schools
• Why It Stands Out: Milan High School is recognized for its strong academic performance, with a 92% graduation rate and an average SAT score of 1160. The school offers a variety of Advanced Placement (AP) courses and has a notable athletic program.

Established in 2003, Milan High School is the newest high school in the Milan Area Schools district. The district has a rich history dating back to the 19th century, with the first high school building constructed in 1900.