Why Ann Arbor Schools Are Among Michigan's Best
Ann Arbor Public Schools consistently ranks among the top school districts in Michigan and the nation. With exceptional teachers, innovative programs, and the influence of the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor offers world-class education from preschool through high school. The district's proximity to U-M provides unique enrichment opportunities, from university partnerships to cultural resources that few communities can match.
🏆 Top Public High Schools
1. Pioneer High School
Type: Public High School
Grades: 9-12
Students: ~2,000
Address: 601 W Stadium Blvd
Pioneer High School is Ann Arbor's flagship school, consistently ranked among Michigan's best. With 98% college acceptance rate, extensive AP offerings (30+ courses), and strong programs in STEM, arts, and athletics, Pioneer prepares students for top universities.
Notable: International Baccalaureate (IB) program, award-winning robotics, state championship athletics, University of Michigan partnerships
Test Scores: SAT avg 1260, 85% proficient or above in all subjects
2. Skyline High School
Type: Public High School
Grades: 9-12
Students: ~1,800
Address: 2552 N Maple Rd
Opened in 2008, Skyline features state-of-the-art facilities and innovative programs. Known for exceptional science and engineering programs, competitive athletics, and strong college prep curriculum with 97% college acceptance rate.
Notable: STEM Academy, Project Lead The Way engineering, dual enrollment with U-M and Washtenaw Community College, green building design
Test Scores: SAT avg 1240, 83% proficient or above in all subjects
3. Huron High School
Type: Public High School
Grades: 9-12
Students: ~1,600
Address: 2727 Fuller Rd
Huron High School offers rigorous academics combined with outstanding arts and athletics programs. Strong International Baccalaureate (IB) program, extensive AP courses, and exceptional college preparation with 96% acceptance rate.
Notable: IB Diploma Programme, award-winning theater and music programs, competitive debate team, strong STEM focus
Test Scores: SAT avg 1230, 82% proficient or above in all subjects
4. Community High School
Type: Alternative Public High School
Grades: 9-12
Students: ~600
Address: 401 N Division St
Unique alternative school emphasizing student-directed learning, small class sizes, and personalized education. Strong arts, humanities, and independent study programs attract creative, self-motivated students.
Notable: Forum (student governance), individualized scheduling, strong college counseling, U-M dual enrollment opportunities
🎓 Top Middle Schools
Slauson Middle School
Grades: 6-8 • Students: ~800
Consistently top-rated middle school with strong academics, International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme, and extensive enrichment opportunities.
Forsythe Middle School
Grades: 6-8 • Students: ~750
Exceptional middle school featuring IB Middle Years Programme, advanced STEM classes, and strong arts programs. Prepares students for high school success.
Tappan Middle School
Grades: 6-8 • Students: ~700
Well-rounded middle school with strong academics, athletics, and arts. IB Middle Years Programme, Spanish immersion continuation, and dedicated staff.
🏫 Top Elementary Schools
Bach Elementary
Grades: K-5 • Outstanding elementary with strong parent involvement, Spanish immersion program, and excellent teaching staff.
Angell Elementary
Grades: K-5 • Top-rated school in Burns Park neighborhood with exceptional academics, enrichment programs, and dedicated community support.
Allen Elementary
Grades: K-5 • Excellent neighborhood school with strong reading and math programs, STEAM initiatives, and caring teachers.
Lawton Elementary
Grades: K-5 • Well-regarded elementary with innovative teaching methods, Spanish immersion option, and excellent special education services.
🏛️ Private & Independent Schools
1. Rudolf Steiner School of Ann Arbor
Type: Private Waldorf School
Grades: PreK-12
Tuition: $18,000-$28,000/year
Premier Waldorf education emphasizing arts, nature, and holistic child development. Beautiful campus, low student-teacher ratio, and strong college preparation.
2. Greenhills School
Type: Independent College Prep
Grades: 6-12
Tuition: $28,000-$32,000/year
Top-tier independent school with rigorous academics, small class sizes, and 100% college placement including Ivy League schools. Exceptional athletics and arts.
3. Clonlara School
Type: Alternative Private School
Grades: K-12
Tuition: $12,000-$18,000/year
Progressive school emphasizing student-directed learning, creativity, and individualized education. Perfect for self-motivated learners.
4. Father Gabriel Richard High School
Type: Catholic High School
Grades: 9-12
Tuition: $10,000-$14,000/year
Catholic college prep school with strong academics, faith formation, and community service. Good college placement and affordable tuition.
📊 Ann Arbor Public Schools Overview
🎯 What Makes Ann Arbor Schools Special
✓ University of Michigan Connection
Unique partnerships with U-M provide students access to university resources, research opportunities, dual enrollment classes, and campus facilities. Many teachers and students have U-M affiliations.
✓ International Baccalaureate Programs
All three comprehensive high schools offer IB programs, providing rigorous international curriculum and college-level coursework that's recognized worldwide.
✓ Advanced Placement Excellence
Ann Arbor schools offer 30+ AP courses with high passing rates. Students regularly score well above national averages on AP exams.
✓ Arts & Music Programs
Award-winning music, theater, and visual arts programs rival college-level offerings. Many students pursue arts careers or attend top conservatories.
✓ STEM Excellence
Robotics teams, science olympiad, engineering programs, and partnerships with U-M Engineering prepare students for STEM careers.
✓ Diversity & Inclusion
Ann Arbor schools serve diverse student populations with strong ESL programs, special education services, and cultural awareness initiatives.
💡 School Choice & Enrollment Tips
✓ School of Choice
Ann Arbor Public Schools accepts Schools of Choice applications for non-resident students, though space is limited. Apply early in the enrollment window.
✓ Boundary Considerations
Your home address determines which schools your children will attend. Research school boundaries when house hunting - see our Best Neighborhoods for Families guide.
✓ Magnet & Alternative Programs
Community High School and specialized programs require separate applications. Research deadlines and requirements well in advance.
✓ Visit Schools
Attend open houses, tour buildings, and meet principals before making housing decisions. Each school has unique culture and strengths.
✓ Check Real-Time Ratings
Use GreatSchools.org, Niche.com, and Michigan School Report Cards for current ratings, test scores, and parent reviews.
🏡 Moving to Ann Arbor for Better Schools?
Ann Arbor's exceptional schools are a top reason families relocate here. Whether you're moving from within Michigan or across the country, having a reliable home in great condition is essential for your family's transition.
New to Ann Arbor? Start with a Free Roof Inspection!
Before school starts, ensure your new home is protected. Elite Roofing has served Ann Arbor families for over 25 years with expert roof inspections, repairs, and replacements. We understand the unique needs of Ann Arbor's historic homes and newer developments.
Why Ann Arbor families trust Elite Roofing:
- ✅ Free comprehensive roof inspections
- ✅ Experience with Ann Arbor's historic architecture
- ✅ Quick service during school year transitions
- ✅ Insurance claim assistance for storm damage
- ✅ Lifetime craftsmanship warranty
- ✅ 24/7 emergency service year-round