U.S. News ranks Delaware’s top high schools, but overlooks disparities

Delaware’s Best High Schools Ranked: What You Need to Know

As the school year comes to a close, U.S. News & World Report has released its latest rankings of public and charter high schools across the country, including those in Delaware. With over 17,000 schools reviewed, the rankings shed light on the academic landscape in the First State.

While these rankings often garner attention for showcasing high-achieving schools, there is more to the story than meets the eye. Data shows that the top schools in Delaware serve fewer students with high needs, with lower-income students making up a smaller percentage of their enrollment compared to the state average.

For example, the top three schools – Charter School of Wilmington, Newark Charter School, and Cab Calloway School of the Arts – have significantly lower percentages of lower-income students. Additionally, none of the schools on the list serve half the average percentage of students learning English as a second language in the state.

Furthermore, students with disabilities make up a smaller proportion of enrollment at these top schools compared to the statewide average. While these rankings highlight academic excellence, they also raise questions about equity and access to resources for all students.

As Delaware continues to prioritize education, these rankings serve as a reminder of the work that still needs to be done to ensure all students have access to high-quality education.