What’s New in U.S. News and World Report’s 2025 Southern Tier School Rankings

If you’re a parent in the Southern Tier, you’ve probably wondered how our local high schools compare with others across New York. U.S. News and World Report just released its newest rankings, and it gives a pretty clear picture of where our schools stand, where they're excelling, and where there’s room to grow.

Before we dive in, here’s something important to know: these rankings include only public high schools. Private schools like Seton Catholic Central aren’t part of the U.S. News system, so you won’t see them listed here.

How U.S. News Actually Measures Our Schools

U.S. News evaluated more than 24,000 public high schools across all 50 states and Washington, D.C. Their formula looks at things like statewide test performance, graduation rates, college readiness, AP or IB participation, and how well schools prepare students for life after graduation. For parents, this offers a helpful snapshot. It’s not the whole story, but it’s a solid starting point when you're thinking about your child’s educational path.

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What This Means for Families Here in the Southern Tier

When you look at this list, one thing becomes clear: our region has a lot to be proud of. Several schools are performing at or above state averages, many offer strong AP or IB programs, and graduation rates are high across much of the area.

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Still, the rankings don’t tell the full story. They don’t measure the band teacher who inspired your child, the coach who kept them focused, or the counselor who helped them navigate a tough year. Every family and every student is different, and the “best” school is the one where your child feels supported, challenged, and seen. So use these numbers as a guide, but trust your gut too. Visit the schools, talk to teachers, and picture where your child will thrive.