Pine-Richland High School Named 4th in Pittsburgh Metro Area

U.S. News and World Report has ranked Pine-Richland High School as one of the top high schools in the nation in its 2024 rankings announced on April 23.

The report named Pine-Richland High School the 4th best high school in the Pittsburgh metro region out of 140 area schools. PRHS is the top-ranked school in the northern Pittsburgh suburbs and was also ranked 12th among Pennsylvania's 640 public high schools and 513th out of more than 25,000 high schools nationwide.

“Over the past decade, the district has invested significant effort into the areas of curriculum, assessment and instruction. That focus serves as our mission,” said Dr. Brian Miller, superintendent. “At the same time, we have continued to emphasize diverse learning opportunities and achievement in arts and music, athletics and a wide range of extracurricular activities.”

Pine-Richland High School saw a significant increase in rankings as compared to last year, when it was ranked 7th in the Pittsburgh area, 12th in the state, and 863rd in the nation.

The publication ranks schools whose students:

• Demonstrate outstanding outcomes that surpass math, reading and science state assessment expectations and averages

• Earn qualifying scores on college-level exams

• Engage in rigorous class offerings through multiple advanced placement courses

• Have cohort graduation rates that well exceed the national average

Weighted factors include college readiness, state assessment proficiency, state assessment performance, underserved student performance, college curriculum breadth and graduation rate.

“We are extremely proud that our school has been recognized as one of the best high schools in Pennsylvania and across the nation,” said Dr. Frank A. Hernandez, principal. “College, career and community readiness are at the forefront of what we try to accomplish for our graduating seniors. This recognition showcases the exceptional work of our students and K-12 staff, as well as the ability of our graduating seniors to have a positive impact on the world around them.”

With enrollment nearing 1,500, Pine-Richland High School boasts a 98% graduation rate.  On average, over 90% of seniors pursue higher education immediately following graduation. Currently, 24 advanced placement classes are offered and 64% of students take at least one AP exam.

“Our daily focus on developing well-rounded students, and the immeasurable impact of fostering positive relationships with and between students, ultimately make PRHS a great place to learn,” added Dr. Hernandez.

See more about how Pine-Richland High School ranks in U.S. News and World Report.