Hello friends, welcome to the Tigerjek, in this post we will discuss the best schools in Vermont. When it comes to education, Vermont has a reputation for doing things a little differently—and in the best way possible. Surrounded by mountains, forests, and a strong sense of community, schools here don’t just focus on academics, they nurture curiosity, creativity, and a genuine love for learning.
From historic prep schools that have shaped generations of leaders to innovative public schools rooted in progressive teaching methods, Vermont offers families a blend of tradition and forward-thinking education. Whether you’re looking for top-ranked academics, strong extracurriculars, or a school environment that feels like home, Vermont’s best schools deliver an experience that’s as unique as the Green Mountain State itself.
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Mt. Mansfield Union High School
Mount Mansfield Union High School, located in Jericho, Vermont, is widely recognized as one of the state’s strongest public high schools. Serving grades 9–12, the school draws students from Jericho, Underhill, Richmond, Huntington, and Bolton as part of the Mount Mansfield Unified Union School District. Established in 1967, it has built a reputation for both academic excellence and well-rounded student life.
With an enrollment of just over 700 students and a student-teacher ratio of about 13:1, the school provides a close-knit learning environment while still offering a wide range of programs. It consistently ranks among the top high schools in Vermont, earning high marks for academics, teacher quality, and student support. Test scores in math and reading are well above state averages, and the school offers a rigorous curriculum, including Advanced Placement courses and opportunities in world languages like French, Spanish, and Latin.
Beyond the classroom, Mount Mansfield Union High School is known for its vibrant extracurricular scene. Students can take part in a variety of clubs, from Model UN and Math League to theater, environmental initiatives, and the school’s literary magazine. Its athletic teams, known as the Cougars, have a long history of success, earning numerous state championships across sports like football, basketball, hockey, lacrosse, skiing, and dance.
The school also holds a special place in Vermont’s ski culture, with alumni that include members of the famous Cochran skiing family, who competed at the World Cup and Olympic level. With strong academics, diverse activities, and a proud tradition of athletic achievement, Mount Mansfield Union High School remains a standout choice for families in the region.
Champlain Valley Union High School
Champlain Valley Union High School (CVU) in Hinesburg, Vermont, stands out as one of the state’s leading public high schools. Serving students in grades 9 through 12, it is part of the Champlain Valley Unified School District and draws a diverse student body of nearly 1,300 learners. With a student–teacher ratio of about 14:1, the school is known for maintaining a strong balance between academic rigor and individualized support.
The school’s identity is rooted in its Redhawks mascot and bold red-and-white colors. Over the years, CVU has earned a reputation for excellence not only in the classroom but also on the playing field. Its athletics program is one of the strongest in Vermont, with state titles across football, soccer, cross country, basketball, and more. Beyond sports, students can explore a wide range of clubs, including sailing and rowing, which reflect Vermont’s outdoor lifestyle.
Academically, CVU offers a robust selection of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, with strong pass rates and a high level of college readiness. The average SAT score hovers around 1250, while the ACT averages 28—both well above state and national averages. Nearly all students graduate, with a rate of about 94%, and many go on to competitive colleges.
The campus itself is impressive. It features multiple athletic fields, a track, and even a goat farm, introduced in 2017 as part of hands-on learning initiatives. The 2005 renovation transformed the school into one of Vermont’s most energy-efficient educational buildings, earning state recognition for sustainability and saving significant annual costs through biomass heating and smart design.
Today, under the leadership of Principal Adam Bunting, Champlain Valley Union High School continues to rank among Vermont’s top three public high schools. It is widely praised for its academics, strong faculty, extensive extracurriculars, and supportive community—making it a model for what a modern public high school can achieve.
South Burlington High School
South Burlington High School, located on Dorset Street in South Burlington, Vermont, is one of the state’s top-performing public high schools. Established in 1957, it serves grades 9–12 and is the only high school in the South Burlington School District. With just over 800 students and a student–teacher ratio of about 11:1, the school is able to provide both strong academics and a supportive community atmosphere.
Academically, South Burlington High School is highly regarded. It offers a wide range of courses, including nearly 14 Advanced Placement classes, accelerated options in math, science, and languages, as well as unique programs like Big Picture South Burlington, which allows students to design personalized learning experiences. Many students also take advantage of dual enrollment opportunities at nearby colleges and technical centers. The school consistently ranks among the top three public high schools in Vermont, with a graduation rate above 90% and college prep recognized as one of its strongest areas.
Life at SBHS extends well beyond the classroom. Students participate in competitive clubs such as Debate, Scholars’ Bowl, Model UN, and the Design Challenge team, which has won recognition at both state and national levels. The school also fields numerous athletic teams under the “Wolves” mascot, competing in the Northern Vermont Athletic Conference across about 18 sports.
With its balance of academic rigor, extracurricular variety, and community engagement, South Burlington High School has built a reputation as one of Vermont’s most well-rounded and respected secondary schools.
Middlebury Union High School
Middlebury Union High School (MUHS), located at 73 Charles Avenue in Middlebury, Vermont, serves as the central high school for the Addison Central Unified School District. With an enrollment of just over 500 students in grades 9 through 12, it maintains a close-knit learning environment supported by a student–teacher ratio of about 12 to 1.
The school is best known for its balance of strong academics and a wide range of opportunities beyond the classroom. Recognized as one of Vermont’s top high schools, MUHS consistently ranks among the top five in the state. It offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, giving students access to a globally recognized curriculum. In addition, flexible pathways such as dual enrollment, early college, and partnerships with Middlebury College provide motivated students with a head start on higher education. Programs like the Middle Years Program (MYP) also bridge the transition from middle to high school, helping students explore personal projects and independent study.
Academically, MUHS performs well, with proficiency rates of around 41% in math, 50% in reading, and 42% in science. Nearly 90% of its test-takers pass IB or AP-style exams, while about 86% of students graduate on time. Its college readiness index is above the state average, reflecting the school’s emphasis on preparing students for life beyond high school.
Culturally, MUHS is home to the Tigers, proudly sporting black and orange colors. Its athletic program is competitive, with Division I and II state titles across several sports. Girls’ Nordic skiing stands out as one of the most successful teams in school history.
The campus itself has undergone significant improvements in recent years. A major renovation of the kitchen and servery created a modern, welcoming space, while other projects continue to support student life. In 2024, a severe thunderstorm damaged parts of the roof, affecting facilities such as the boys’ locker room and auditorium, but the school moved quickly to restore normalcy.
Through academics, athletics, and strong community ties, Middlebury Union High School has built a reputation as both a rigorous and supportive environment. It reflects the values of its community while preparing students for success in college, careers, and beyond.
Essex High School – Best schools in Vermont
Essex High School, located in Essex Junction, Vermont, is the largest secondary school in the state and serves as a central hub for students from Essex, Essex Junction, and Westford. Part of the Essex Westford School District, it enrolls more than 1,300 students in grades 9–12, offering a wide range of academic and extracurricular opportunities within a vibrant and diverse community.
The school is well-regarded for its strong academic programs, including Advanced Placement and honors courses, as well as dual enrollment options that allow students to earn college credit while in high school. Essex High also collaborates closely with the Center for Technology, Essex, providing students with access to specialized career and technical education programs. With a student–teacher ratio of about 13:1, the school maintains both academic rigor and personal support for its learners.
Beyond academics, Essex High School is known for its extensive extracurricular and athletic offerings. Students can join a variety of clubs, including robotics, debate, drama, and music ensembles, while the school’s athletic teams—the Hornets—compete across numerous sports at a high level. Its fine arts and performing arts programs are also highly respected, showcasing student talent in theater, band, and visual arts.
As one of Vermont’s leading high schools, Essex High combines academic strength, technical learning pathways, and a wide range of extracurricular activities, making it a well-rounded environment for students preparing for college, careers, or both.
Craftsbury Schools
Craftsbury Schools, located in the historic village of Craftsbury Common, Vermont, provide a unique PreK–12 learning experience within a small, community-centered environment. Part of the Orleans Southwest Supervisory Union, the school enrolls around 200 students, allowing for close connections between teachers and learners. With such small class sizes, students receive personalized attention and build strong relationships that extend beyond the classroom.
The school is spread across two main buildings: the Academy Building, which serves high school students, and the Elementary Building for younger grades. Together, they form a continuous pathway from early education to graduation, fostering a strong sense of belonging and consistency throughout a child’s schooling years.
Craftsbury Schools are well known for their dedication to place-based education. The surrounding Northeast Kingdom landscape serves as a living classroom, where outdoor learning, environmental stewardship, and hands-on projects play a central role. Students often engage with local farms, forests, and the broader community to connect academics with real-world experiences.
Athletically, Craftsbury has made its mark despite its small size. The school’s teams, known as the Chargers, compete with pride in a variety of sports, and the community is especially supportive of Nordic skiing, thanks to the nearby Craftsbury Outdoor Center—a world-class training venue for cross-country skiers.
The school emphasizes both academic and personal growth, preparing students for life after graduation whether they choose college, vocational paths, or community engagement. Its combination of rigorous learning, outdoor experiences, and strong community values makes Craftsbury Schools stand out as one of Vermont’s most distinctive public schools.
Montpelier High School – Best schools in Vermont
Montpelier High School, located in Vermont’s capital city, is a small but highly regarded public high school serving students in grades 9–12. With an enrollment of around 350 students, it is part of the Montpelier Roxbury Public Schools district and is known for its close-knit, supportive learning environment.
Academically, Montpelier High maintains a strong reputation, offering a range of core subjects, honors courses, and Advanced Placement classes. The school emphasizes personalized learning, with opportunities for independent projects, internships, and dual enrollment at local colleges, allowing students to explore interests beyond the standard curriculum. Its student–teacher ratio of about 10:1 ensures that learners receive individual attention and mentorship.
Outside the classroom, Montpelier High School offers a vibrant mix of extracurriculars and athletics. Students participate in clubs such as theater, music ensembles, student government, and environmental initiatives, while the Solons athletic teams compete in soccer, basketball, cross-country, track, and other sports. The school also has a strong tradition of community engagement, with service projects and local partnerships forming a key part of student life.
With its blend of academic rigor, creative opportunities, and a welcoming community spirit, Montpelier High School stands out as one of Vermont’s most well-rounded small high schools.
Lake Region Union High School
Lake Region Union High School, located in Orleans, Vermont, serves students in grades 9 through 12 from several surrounding towns in the Northeast Kingdom. As part of the Orleans Central Supervisory Union, the school enrolls around 350–400 students, creating a tight-knit learning community where teachers and students know each other well.
The school has built a reputation for strong academics combined with a wide variety of extracurricular opportunities. Students have access to Advanced Placement (AP) courses, dual enrollment programs with Vermont colleges, and flexible learning pathways that help them prepare for higher education or careers. With a student–teacher ratio of about 10 to 1, individualized attention and support are a hallmark of the school’s approach.
Athletics and school spirit are also central to the Lake Region experience. Known as the “Rangers,” the school’s teams compete proudly in soccer, basketball, cross country, track and field, and other sports. The school community is especially enthusiastic during home games, where students, staff, and families come together to celebrate their teams.
Beyond academics and athletics, Lake Region fosters a culture of inclusivity and personal growth. Students participate in arts, music, and community service, reflecting the school’s mission to educate the whole student. Many graduates go on to attend college, while others find success in trades and local careers, showing the school’s commitment to preparing young people for diverse paths.
Through its combination of strong academics, supportive relationships, and community pride, Lake Region Union High School stands out as a vital part of education in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom.
Green Mountain Union High School
Green Mountain Union High School, located in Chester, Vermont, serves students in grades 7 through 12 as part of the Green Mountain Unified School District. With a student body of just under 300, it offers a close-knit environment where the student–teacher ratio remains low, giving learners more personalized attention.
Academically, the school provides opportunities such as Advanced Placement courses and dual enrollment programs, helping students prepare for college-level work. While proficiency scores in math and reading are slightly below the state average, many students benefit from the supportive learning environment and access to individualized guidance.
Beyond the classroom, Green Mountain Union places strong emphasis on athletics and extracurricular activities. Students can participate in sports like basketball and soccer, as well as unique offerings such as rock climbing and mountain biking, which reflect the school’s rural Vermont setting.
The school is often described as a typical small-town high school—tight-knit, community-oriented, and welcoming. While it faces challenges such as limited AP offerings and lack of diversity, it remains an important hub for education, growth, and student engagement in the Chester area.
Colchester High School
Green Mountain Union High School, located in Chester, Vermont, serves students in grades 7 through 12 as part of the Green Mountain Unified School District. With a student body of just under 300, it offers a close-knit environment where the student–teacher ratio remains low, giving learners more personalized attention.
Academically, the school provides opportunities such as Advanced Placement courses and dual enrollment programs, helping students prepare for college-level work. While proficiency scores in math and reading are slightly below the state average, many students benefit from the supportive learning environment and access to individualized guidance.
Beyond the classroom, Green Mountain Union places strong emphasis on athletics and extracurricular activities. Students can participate in sports like basketball and soccer, as well as unique offerings such as rock climbing and mountain biking, which reflect the school’s rural Vermont setting.
The school is often described as a typical small-town high school—tight-knit, community-oriented, and welcoming. While it faces challenges such as limited AP offerings and lack of diversity, it remains an important hub for education, growth, and student engagement in the Chester area.
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