Pine-Richland High School Named 2nd 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 2025 rankings announced on August 19.

Pine-Richland High School was named the 2nd-best high school in the Pittsburgh metro region out of 152 area schools. It is the top-ranked school in the northern Pittsburgh suburbs and was also ranked 8th among Pennsylvania's 741 public high schools and 455th out of nearly 18,000 high schools nationwide.

“These rankings are a byproduct of our work in curriculum (alignment), instruction (time), and assessment (feedback). They are built on the relationships we form with our students and the commitment of staff to work together,” said Dr. Brian Miller, superintendent. “In addition to a strong foundation of academic excellence, we are also committed to diverse opportunities in athletics, arts and activities.”

Pine-Richland High School saw a significant increase in rankings as compared to last year, when it was ranked 4th in the Pittsburgh area, 12th in the state and 513th 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, performance of underserved students, breadth of college curriculum and graduation rate. 

“We continue to be 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.