SBHS Named One of Newsweek's Best High Schools Again

South Brunswick High School has been recognized for the second straight year on Newsweek's annual list of the 1,000 best public high schools in America.

SBHS came in at number 683 on the list, and was the 54th ranked high school in New Jersey.

"Obviously anytime a publication of national recognition says the work we're doing is good work, and when compared to others we measure favorably, it's always gratifying," said Superintendant Gary McCartney. "It's one thing to think that your organization is good, but it's even better when other people think it's a good one. That kind of affirmation is really nice. It's like the icing on the cake."

According to the magazine, “this year’s ranking highlights the best 1,000 public high schools in the nation—the ones that have proven to be the most effective in turning out college-ready grads. The list is based on six components provided by school administrators: graduation rate (25 percent), college matriculation rate (25 percent), AP/IB/AICE tests taken per student (25 percent), average SAT/ACT scores (10 percent), average AP/IB/AICE scores (10 percent), and AP courses offered per student (5 percent)."

Dr. McCartney praised the work done by teachers, students, parents and administration for making the recognition possible.

"We have an amazing array of talented people mixed in with a supportive community, committed students who really want to learn and talented teachers who go the extra mile in the elementary schools, middle schools and high schools," Dr. McCartney said. "People get confused when the high school gets recognition who's responsible for it. There are a number of excellent teachers who help students learn in a way that makes them want to keep doing it. That's what we're dealing with here. Great elementary school and middle school teachers who help to create a base that allows these kids to flourish."

The school was  in 2011. 

SBHS had a 99 percent graduation rate, with 87 percent of students college bound. SBHS had a rate of 0.4 for AP/IB/AICE tests taken per student, a score of 1688 for average SAT/ACT scores, and 3.8 AP courses offered per student, according to the list.

"Students are flourishing at the high school and doing great work thanks to all of the staff, administration, the (Board of Education) for being supportive financially, and the community," Dr. McCartney said. "It's a total commitment by the entire community that allows this kind of recognition."

To see the full ranking list, click here.