Top High Schools in the Tampa, FL Metro

Below are profiles featuring the top five high schools in the Tampa Metropolitan Area. In order to be featured as a Top High School, the school must have a 2010 Education.com TestRating of 10 out of 10.  The TestRating compares a school's standardized test scores for a given year with scores from other schools in the same state. Find your school and see how it compares.

East Lake High School

Pinellas School District

If you visit East Lake High School, you will notice a culture of respect between teachers and students throughout the school. The school works individually with students to ensure that all can graduate and succeed. Students lead the Principal’s Multicultural Committee, which brings students together and address a wide array of issues affecting the school.

Academics are stressed for all kids - both the football and soccer teams were recently recognized for having the highest GPA in their sport in the district. Students wanting to get a jump start on college can take one of the many AP courses or dual enroll at nearby St. Petersburg College. The school is also home to the Engineering Academy that uses the project “Lead The Way,” which provides hands-on experience with technology.

The visual arts and music programs are top–notch and many students participate in the award winning bands and choral programs. Sports teams are active and the school has won many state championships.

“Our teachers have a passion for their students and that reflects in a culture that is positive and embracing for all kids,” said Dr. Osvaldo Piedra, Assistant Principal.

Newsome High School

Hillsborough School District

Newsome High School has experienced tremendous growth since its opening in 2003. The school, named for Joseph Newsome, a member of the School Board of Hillsborough County, has gone from 1000 to 2300 students in just eight years.

The school offers students a chance to get a jump start on their career by obtaining certifications in areas such as business technology, Microsoft, and Interior Design. Students can also select from extensive AP and honors courses. A wide variety of electives are available, including History of Vietnam, Middle East, Psychology, Marine Science, and Vet Assisting.

The music program has reputation for excellent, including band, jazz band, chorus, show choir and orchestra, and consistently earns high marks. Students can participate in over 40 different clubs on campus, some of which are honor societies. Sports teams have a winning record and hold many titles both at the district and state level.

"The wolves take pride in our school from online communications to well cared for facilities,” said Rebecca Fitzgerald, Principal. “Newsome has a very high academic standing and is very proud of a well rounded school.”

Palm Harbor University High School

Pinellas School District

Palm Harbor University High School provides a focus on academics in a positive and supportive environment. The school offers two magnet programs for students in addition to a comprehensive high school experience. Over 92 percent of the students head to a post-secondary school after graduation.

Students can earn college credit by enrolling in the International Baccalaureate program, while those interested in a career in the medical field can apply to the Center for Wellness and Medical Professions Program. Students in the program participate in clinical and volunteer a large number of hours to the community in addition to completing a challenging curriculum.

Students are very involved in after school activities, including a number of interest, social, honor societies, and medically focused clubs. Athletic teams are competitive and the school holds 35 state championship titles, including recent titles in soccer and swimming.

"Visitor comments usually consist of how beautiful the school looks, how polite and well mannered the students are, how the students are very focused on academic success," said Christen Tonry. "PHUHS is an amazing school and the students, faculty and staff are proud to be Hurricanes."