The top three high schools in Texas are all in Dallas, recent ranking study finds

Dallas, Texas – According to recent evaluations by U.S. News and World Report, Dallas is the home of the three top-ranking high schools in Texas.

The School for the Talented and Gifted (TAG), a part of Dallas ISD, has been distinguished as the premier high school in the state, additionally securing the eighth place among the nation’s best.

“Really when you learn about TAG, it’s not hard to see why,” said Joshua Brown, a junior. “It’s so unique in how we do everything.”

Brown is among the 530 students who currently populate this magnet school in the Dallas ISD. All students are required to meet specific academic standards, such as GPA and standardized test scores. Furthermore, they must successfully navigate through an application process to secure a place in the esteemed institution.

“There’s not a traditional TAG student,” said Megan Malone, a teacher and the chair of the social studies department. “I could identify 50 different qualities in the students that make up our student body. I think the one thing that underlies is that they’re interested in something. They’re curious about the world.

The spirit of curiosity at TAG, the top-ranking high school in Texas, is deeply encouraged by both the students and faculty, empowering them to delve into their unique interests.

“I was talking to some students in my economics class about personal finance, and they were very interested, so I put it on offer the next year and I had a waiting list of 100 kids,” Malone said.

The school facilitates individuality by offering 30 Advanced Placement (AP) courses and a broad array of electives, enabling students to craft their unique academic schedules. Junior Victoria Myers voiced her appreciation for this, stating, “If you want to pursue something, it’s not impossible,” adding, “There’s always a way, and the teachers really emphasize that.”

Students report a supportive environment as they grapple with academic challenges.

“It’s important for kids to be challenged,” said Gaines Greer, a teacher and the chair of the English department. “I think we grow when we’re challenged, but challenges should come with support and guidance and understanding and empathy. That’s something we really value here too.”

Greer pointed out that while they value the prestigious rankings, the primary focus remains on ensuring each student receives the best educational experience, preparing them for future success.

TAG is renowned for its graduates, who secure placements in some of the most respected colleges and universities across the nation.

Notably, the second and third highest-ranked high schools in Texas, Irma Lerma Rangel Young Women’s Leadership School and the Science and Engineering Magnet School, are also part of Dallas ISD, as per the rankings.

These rankings are based on a variety of factors, including college readiness, graduation rates, and reading and math performance.

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