Choosing from the Best High Schools in Annapolis can feel overwhelming for parents and students. Annapolis, Maryland offers strong public, charter, private, faith-based, and specialty options serving a wide range of academic interests and career goals. Whether your child is STEM-focused, arts-driven, college-bound, or in need of flexible scheduling, this guide highlights top high schools in Annapolis and nearby Anne Arundel County communities to help you compare options confidently.
High Schools in Annapolis Comparison Table
| School Name | Type | Grades | Known For | Best For Students Who |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Annapolis High School | Public | 9–12 | IB Program | Want global curriculum |
| Broadneck High School | Public | 9–12 | AP & Athletics | Thrive in competitive academics |
| South River High School | Public | 9–12 | STEM & Sports | Want balance |
| Severna Park High School | Public | 9–12 | High Achievement | Aim for top colleges |
| Arundel High School | Public | 9–12 | Performing Arts | Love arts leadership |
| Chesapeake Science Point | Charter | 6–12 | STEM Focus | Want science careers |
| St. Mary’s High School | Private Catholic | 9–12 | Faith & College Prep | Prefer values-based learning |
| Key School | Private | K–12 | Progressive Model | Prefer small classes |
| Indian Creek School | Private | PK–12 | College Prep | Want personalized attention |
| Severn School | Private | 6–12 | Academic Excellence | Seek rigorous prep |
Top 50 High Schools in Annapolis
1. Annapolis High School
Annapolis High School is one of the most recognized public high schools serving families in Annapolis. It offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, providing rigorous academic preparation and global perspective. The school serves a diverse student body and focuses on leadership, equity, and strong college readiness pathways.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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International Baccalaureate program
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Diverse and inclusive culture
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Strong counseling services
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Active arts and athletics
Programs & Activities
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IB Diploma Programme
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AP courses
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STEM electives
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Performing arts
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Varsity athletics
Best For: Students seeking rigorous academics with global focus
Location: 2700 Riva Rd, Annapolis, MD
Phone: (410) 266-5240
2. Broadneck High School
Broadneck High School is consistently ranked among the top high schools near Annapolis. Known for strong academics and competitive athletics, it provides numerous Advanced Placement courses and leadership opportunities. Families appreciate its high graduation rate and strong parent involvement.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Wide AP selection
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Strong athletic programs
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High test performance
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Engaged faculty
Programs & Activities
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AP STEM and humanities
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Robotics club
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Marching band
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Varsity sports
Best For: High-achieving, college-bound students
Location: 1265 Green Holly Dr, Annapolis, MD
Phone: (410) 757-1300
3. South River High School
South River High School serves students in the greater Annapolis area with a balanced academic and extracurricular experience. It has strong STEM offerings and a well-developed athletics department. Students benefit from modern facilities and experienced educators.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Strong STEM pathway
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Competitive sports
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Active clubs
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Career readiness focus
Programs & Activities
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AP courses
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Engineering electives
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Performing arts
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Leadership clubs
Best For: Students who want academics and athletics combined
Location: 201 Central Ave E, Edgewater, MD
Phone: (410) 956-5600
4. Severna Park High School
Severna Park High School is known for academic excellence and strong standardized test results. Many graduates attend competitive universities. The school fosters leadership, service, and achievement in both academics and extracurricular activities.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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High academic standards
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Strong AP program
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Championship sports teams
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Supportive environment
Programs & Activities
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AP sciences and math
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Debate club
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Performing arts
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Student government
Best For: Academically ambitious students
Location: 60 Robinson Rd, Severna Park, MD
Phone: (410) 647-7700
5. Arundel High School
Arundel High School offers a strong performing arts presence alongside solid academic programs. Families appreciate its welcoming culture and opportunities for leadership development.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Award-winning arts programs
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Honors and AP tracks
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Leadership opportunities
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College preparation focus
Programs & Activities
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Theater and music programs
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AP coursework
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Varsity sports
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Community service clubs
Best For: Students passionate about arts and academics
Location: 1001 Annapolis Rd, Gambrills, MD
Phone: (410) 674-6500
6. Chesapeake Science Point Public Charter School
Chesapeake Science Point is a charter school known for its STEM-centered curriculum. It prepares students for careers in science, engineering, and technology fields.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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STEM specialization
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Smaller learning environment
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Strong math and science outcomes
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College credit options
Programs & Activities
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Robotics
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Coding
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Engineering labs
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AP science courses
Best For: Students interested in STEM careers
Location: 7321 Parkway Dr, Hanover, MD
Phone: (410) 684-5030
7. St. Mary’s High School
St. Mary’s High School provides Catholic college-preparatory education in Annapolis. It blends faith formation with academic excellence and character development.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Faith-based learning
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Strong academics
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Athletics and service
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Structured environment
Programs & Activities
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AP classes
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Campus ministry
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Service learning
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Varsity sports
Best For: Families seeking private Catholic education
Location: 113 Duke of Gloucester St, Annapolis, MD
Phone: (410) 990-4236
8. Key School
Key School offers a progressive, student-centered private education in Annapolis. Small class sizes allow teachers to tailor instruction and encourage critical thinking.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Low student-teacher ratio
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Creative curriculum
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College counseling
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Strong arts integration
Programs & Activities
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Advanced electives
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Athletics
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Experiential learning
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Arts programs
Best For: Students who thrive in small, discussion-based classes
Location: 534 Hillsmere Dr, Annapolis, MD
Phone: (410) 263-9231
9. Indian Creek School
Indian Creek School offers a comprehensive college-preparatory program with personalized attention and strong academic support.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Personalized instruction
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Leadership development
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College prep focus
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Safe campus environment
Programs & Activities
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STEM labs
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Arts and athletics
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Student leadership programs
Best For: Students who benefit from close mentorship
Location: 1130 Anne Chambers Way, Crownsville, MD
Phone: (410) 923-3660
10. Severn School
Severn School is a respected private institution serving Annapolis families. It is known for academic rigor, strong college placements, and leadership training.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Challenging academics
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Small class sizes
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Strong athletics
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College counseling
Programs & Activities
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AP courses
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Arts programs
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Varsity athletics
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Leadership initiatives
Best For: Students seeking rigorous college prep
Location: 201 Water St, Severna Park, MD
Phone: (410) 647-7701
11. Meade High School
Meade High School serves a diverse student population and offers multiple career pathways alongside traditional academics.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Career training options
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Strong ROTC program
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Diverse community
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Active athletics
Programs & Activities
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AP courses
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JROTC
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Career technical programs
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Sports teams
Best For: Students interested in military or technical pathways
Location: 1100 Clark Rd, Fort Meade, MD
Phone: (410) 674-7710
12. Old Mill High School
Old Mill High School offers a comprehensive academic program with strong extracurricular involvement.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Honors courses
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Career programs
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Sports teams
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Supportive staff
Programs & Activities
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AP classes
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Performing arts
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Career pathways
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Student government
Best For: Students seeking balanced academics
Location: 600 Patriot Ln, Millersville, MD
Phone: (410) 969-2432
13. Glen Burnie High School
Glen Burnie High School focuses on preparing students for college and careers through structured programs and strong community partnerships.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Community engagement
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Career training
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Athletic programs
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Support services
Programs & Activities
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AP courses
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Technical education
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Sports teams
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Leadership clubs
Best For: Students seeking practical and academic balance
Location: 7550 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd, Glen Burnie, MD
Phone: (410) 761-8950
14. North County High School
North County High School provides diverse academic programs and emphasizes student growth and achievement.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Career academies
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Strong athletics
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Honors classes
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Inclusive culture
Programs & Activities
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AP coursework
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Career academies
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Sports programs
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Arts programs
Best For: Students interested in career exploration
Location: 10 E 1st Ave, Glen Burnie, MD
Phone: (410) 222-6970
15. Crofton High School
Crofton High School is one of the newer public high schools serving families near Annapolis. It offers modern facilities and strong academic programs.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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New campus facilities
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AP and honors tracks
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Active extracurriculars
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College readiness focus
Programs & Activities
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AP courses
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Arts programs
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Athletics
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Student leadership
Best For: Students seeking a modern academic environment
Location: 2291 Davidsonville Rd, Gambrills, MD
Phone: (410) 451-5000
16. Southern High School
Southern High School serves communities south of Annapolis and emphasizes academic growth and extracurricular engagement.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Supportive teachers
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Strong athletic tradition
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Career readiness
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Active clubs
Programs & Activities
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AP courses
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Career technical education
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Sports teams
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Fine arts
Best For: Students wanting strong community involvement
Location: 4400 Solomons Island Rd, Harwood, MD
Phone: (410) 867-6400
17. Northeast High School
Northeast High School offers comprehensive academic programming and diverse extracurricular activities for students in the Annapolis region.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Honors courses
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Career academies
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Sports programs
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Arts opportunities
Programs & Activities
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AP classes
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Career training
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Music and theater
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Varsity sports
Best For: Students exploring academic and career pathways
Location: 1121 Duvall Hwy, Pasadena, MD
Phone: (410) 255-7931
18. Annapolis Area Christian School
Annapolis Area Christian School provides Christ-centered education with strong academic standards and character development.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Biblical foundation
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College prep academics
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Small classes
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Strong parent community
Programs & Activities
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Honors courses
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Fine arts
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Athletics
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Service learning
Best For: Families seeking Christian private education
Location: 109 Burns Crossing Rd, Severn, MD
Phone: (410) 519-5300
19. Archbishop Spalding High School
Archbishop Spalding High School is a Catholic college-preparatory school serving the Annapolis region with strong academic and athletic programs.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Rigorous curriculum
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Faith-based environment
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Championship athletics
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Leadership development
Programs & Activities
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AP courses
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Campus ministry
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Arts and athletics
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Service programs
Best For: Students seeking structured college prep with Catholic values
Location: 8080 New Cut Rd, Severn, MD
Phone: (410) 969-9105
20. The Gunston School
The Gunston School is a private college-preparatory school located near Annapolis with strong environmental and experiential learning programs.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Waterfront campus
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Environmental focus
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Small classes
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College counseling
Programs & Activities
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AP classes
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Environmental science programs
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Athletics
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Arts programs
Best For: Students who enjoy experiential, college-prep learning
Location: 911 Gunston Rd, Centreville, MD
Phone: (410) 758-0620
21. Center of Applied Technology North
Center of Applied Technology North (CAT North) provides career and technical education for high school students in the Annapolis area. Students attend part-time while enrolled in their home high schools, gaining hands-on skills that lead directly to employment or advanced study. Families appreciate the real-world training and industry certifications available here.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Career-focused instruction
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Industry certifications
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Modern technical labs
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Strong workforce connections
Programs & Activities
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Automotive technology
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Cybersecurity
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Health professions
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Construction trades
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Culinary arts
Best For: Students who want practical, career-ready skills
Location: 800 Stevenson Rd, Severn, MD
Phone: (410) 969-6570
22. Center of Applied Technology South
Center of Applied Technology South (CAT South) offers similar career pathways to students zoned for southern Anne Arundel County, including Annapolis families. It blends classroom instruction with technical lab experience to prepare students for in-demand careers.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Hands-on learning
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Career certifications
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Internship opportunities
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Skilled instructors
Programs & Activities
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Welding
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Graphic communications
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Cosmetology
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Computer networking
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Homeland security
Best For: Students pursuing trades or technical careers
Location: 211 Central Ave W, Edgewater, MD
Phone: (410) 956-8800
23. Severn School
Severn School is a respected private college-preparatory school serving Annapolis families. It offers challenging academics, leadership programs, and strong arts and athletics. With small class sizes, students receive individualized attention and strong college counseling support.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Rigorous academics
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Small student-teacher ratio
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Leadership development
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Competitive athletics
Programs & Activities
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AP courses
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Performing arts
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Varsity sports
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Community service
Best For: Students seeking strong private college preparation
Location: 201 Water St, Severna Park, MD
Phone: (410) 647-7701
24. Annapolis Area Christian School
Annapolis Area Christian School provides Christ-centered education with a focus on academic excellence and character formation. Families value the supportive community and structured learning environment.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Faith-integrated curriculum
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Small classes
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Strong parent involvement
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College preparation focus
Programs & Activities
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Honors courses
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Fine arts
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Athletics
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Service programs
Best For: Families seeking Christian private education
Location: 109 Burns Crossing Rd, Severn, MD
Phone: (410) 519-5300
25. Archbishop Spalding High School
Archbishop Spalding High School is a Catholic secondary school serving students in the Annapolis region. It emphasizes academic rigor, discipline, and faith formation alongside strong athletic programs.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Structured college-prep curriculum
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Faith-based leadership training
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Strong athletics
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Service learning opportunities
Programs & Activities
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AP courses
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Campus ministry
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Arts programs
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Varsity sports
Best For: Students seeking Catholic college-preparatory education
Location: 8080 New Cut Rd, Severn, MD
Phone: (410) 969-9105
26. Rockbridge Academy
Rockbridge Academy is a classical Christian school serving families near Annapolis. It emphasizes a traditional liberal arts curriculum grounded in faith and critical thinking.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Classical education model
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Small class sizes
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Strong moral framework
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Engaged faculty
Programs & Activities
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Latin studies
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Logic and rhetoric courses
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Fine arts
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Athletics
Best For: Families seeking classical Christian education
Location: 911 Generals Hwy, Millersville, MD
Phone: (410) 923-1171
27. The Summit School
The Summit School specializes in educating bright students with learning differences. It provides individualized instruction and strong academic support to help students reach their full potential.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Small classes
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Personalized learning plans
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Supportive environment
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College placement success
Programs & Activities
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Academic support services
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Arts programs
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Athletics
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College counseling
Best For: Students with learning differences who need individualized instruction
Location: 664 Central Ave E, Edgewater, MD
Phone: (410) 798-0005
28. The Harbour School at Annapolis
The Harbour School supports students with learning differences and language-based challenges. It focuses on structured literacy and individualized instruction.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Specialized support
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Small classroom settings
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Individual attention
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Inclusive community
Programs & Activities
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Language intervention
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STEM activities
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Arts programs
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Social development programs
Best For: Students needing structured academic support
Location: 1277 Green Holly Dr, Annapolis, MD
Phone: (410) 974-4248
29. Phoenix Academy
Phoenix Academy is an alternative high school program designed to support students who need a smaller learning environment. It focuses on credit recovery and personalized graduation pathways.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Flexible scheduling
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Individualized instruction
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Supportive faculty
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Graduation pathway focus
Programs & Activities
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Core academics
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Credit recovery
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Career counseling
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Life skills training
Best For: Students needing a non-traditional school structure
Location: 723 Central Ave E, Edgewater, MD
Phone: (410) 956-5605
30. Anne Arundel Evening High School
Anne Arundel Evening High School provides flexible academic options for students balancing work, family, or other responsibilities. It allows learners to complete graduation requirements outside traditional hours.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Evening class schedules
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Credit completion
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Adult learner support
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Flexible pacing
Programs & Activities
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Core academic classes
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GED preparation
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Career readiness
Best For: Students needing flexible enrollment options
Location: 31 Woodward Ln, Annapolis, MD
Phone: (410) 222-6573
31. Monarch Global Academy (Upper Grades)
Monarch Global Academy offers an internationally focused curriculum emphasizing global studies and language immersion through upper grades that feed into high school pathways.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Global studies focus
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Language immersion
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Cultural awareness
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Strong academic preparation
Programs & Activities
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World language programs
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Cultural exchange activities
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Honors preparation
Best For: Students interested in international studies
Location: 2001 Monarch Dr, Annapolis, MD
Phone: (410) 224-4141
32. Crofton High School
Crofton High School is one of the newer public high schools serving the Annapolis region. It offers modern facilities and strong AP and honors tracks.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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New campus
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Advanced coursework
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Active extracurricular programs
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College readiness support
Programs & Activities
-
AP classes
-
Arts programs
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Athletics
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Student government
Best For: Students seeking a modern academic setting
Location: 2291 Davidsonville Rd, Gambrills, MD
Phone: (410) 451-5000
33. Southern High School
Southern High School serves families south of Annapolis and offers a strong sense of community. It balances academics with athletics and extracurricular activities.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Supportive teachers
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Strong sports programs
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Career pathways
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Community involvement
Programs & Activities
-
AP courses
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Career technical education
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Fine arts
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Athletics
Best For: Students wanting community-focused education
Location: 4400 Solomons Island Rd, Harwood, MD
Phone: (410) 867-6400
34. Northeast High School
Northeast High School offers comprehensive academic programs and diverse extracurricular opportunities for students in the greater Annapolis area.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Honors classes
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Career academies
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Strong arts programs
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Athletics
Programs & Activities
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AP courses
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Music and theater
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Sports teams
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Student clubs
Best For: Students exploring varied academic interests
Location: 1121 Duvall Hwy, Pasadena, MD
Phone: (410) 255-7931
35. Glen Burnie High School
Glen Burnie High School provides strong academic programs and career-focused education for students near Annapolis.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Career preparation
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Community partnerships
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Athletic programs
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Student leadership
Programs & Activities
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AP classes
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Technical education
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Arts and athletics
Best For: Students interested in career and academic balance
Location: 7550 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd, Glen Burnie, MD
Phone: (410) 761-8950
36. North County High School
North County High School offers career academies and strong extracurricular options for students in Anne Arundel County.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Career academies
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Honors courses
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Inclusive culture
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Sports teams
Programs & Activities
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AP coursework
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Career-focused programs
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Fine arts
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Athletics
Best For: Students exploring career pathways
Location: 10 E 1st Ave, Glen Burnie, MD
Phone: (410) 222-6970
37. Old Mill High School
Old Mill High School provides comprehensive academic offerings alongside active extracurricular programs serving Annapolis-area families.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Honors programs
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Sports teams
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Career pathways
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Supportive faculty
Programs & Activities
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AP classes
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Performing arts
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Career education
Best For: Students seeking balanced public education
Location: 600 Patriot Ln, Millersville, MD
Phone: (410) 969-2432
38. Meade High School
Meade High School serves a diverse population and offers career and leadership pathways including JROTC and technical education.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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JROTC program
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Career training
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Athletic opportunities
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Support services
Programs & Activities
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AP courses
-
Technical pathways
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Varsity sports
Best For: Students interested in military or technical careers
Location: 1100 Clark Rd, Fort Meade, MD
Phone: (410) 674-7710
39. Maryland School for the Blind
Maryland School for the Blind serves students with visual impairments from across the region, including Annapolis families. It offers academic, residential, and life-skills programs.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Specialized support
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Life skills training
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Individualized instruction
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Residential options
Programs & Activities
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Academic curriculum
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Orientation and mobility training
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Career preparation
Best For: Students with visual impairments
Location: 3501 Taylor Ave, Baltimore, MD
Phone: (410) 444-5000
40. Naval Academy Preparatory School
Naval Academy Preparatory School prepares selected students for entrance into the U.S. Naval Academy. It offers rigorous academics and military training.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Military preparation
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Structured discipline
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Academic rigor
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Leadership training
Programs & Activities
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Advanced math and science
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Physical training
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Leadership development
Best For: Students preparing for military academy admission
Location: 197 Elliot Rd, Newport, RI
Phone: (401) 841-2252
41. South Shore School
South Shore School is a public specialty school serving students with significant developmental and learning needs in the Annapolis area. It provides individualized education plans and therapeutic support to help students build academic, communication, and life skills. Families appreciate the highly structured environment and strong collaboration between educators and parents.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Individualized instruction
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Therapeutic services
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Small class sizes
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Strong family communication
Programs & Activities
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Life skills training
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Functional academics
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Occupational and speech therapy
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Community-based instruction
Best For: Students requiring intensive special education support
Location: 1300 Stepney Ln, Edgewater, MD
Phone: (410) 956-5605
42. Central Special School
Central Special School supports students with moderate to severe disabilities through tailored academic and developmental programming. It focuses on functional academics and independence skills to prepare students for adulthood.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Specialized support staff
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Safe learning environment
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Individual education plans
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Strong transition services
Programs & Activities
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Life and job skills
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Communication development
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Community engagement activities
Best For: Students who need comprehensive special education services
Location: 1010 Anne Chambers Way, Crownsville, MD
Phone: (410) 923-7600
43. Mary Moss at Adams Academy
Mary Moss at Adams Academy is an alternative public school program serving students who benefit from smaller class settings and additional academic or behavioral support. The school emphasizes personal growth alongside academic progress.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Smaller class sizes
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Individual attention
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Counseling support
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Flexible pathways to graduation
Programs & Activities
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Core academic instruction
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Social-emotional learning
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Credit recovery
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Career readiness support
Best For: Students needing structured alternative education
Location: 245 Clay St, Annapolis, MD
Phone: (410) 263-9231
44. Anne Arundel Virtual Academy
Anne Arundel Virtual Academy offers online learning options for students across Annapolis and the surrounding county. It provides flexible scheduling and digital coursework aligned with public school standards.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Flexible home-based learning
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Certified teachers
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Self-paced options
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Access to county curriculum
Programs & Activities
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Online core subjects
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AP options
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Virtual clubs
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College prep guidance
Best For: Students who prefer remote or flexible learning environments
Location: Annapolis, MD (Virtual Program)
Phone: (410) 222-5000
45. Chesapeake Bay Academy
Chesapeake Bay Academy is a private school serving students with learning differences in the Annapolis region. It focuses on individualized instruction and structured literacy programs to help students build confidence and academic success.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Specialized academic support
-
Small class sizes
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Individual learning plans
-
Supportive community
Programs & Activities
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Reading intervention
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STEM enrichment
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Arts programs
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Social development activities
Best For: Students with language-based learning differences
Location: 821 Baker Ave, Annapolis, MD
Phone: (410) 263-0110
46. Pathways School Annapolis
Pathways School Annapolis serves students with autism spectrum disorders and related learning needs. The school offers individualized academic and behavioral programming in a structured setting.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Autism-focused instruction
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Low student-teacher ratios
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Behavior support services
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Parent collaboration
Programs & Activities
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Academic curriculum
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Social skills training
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Life skills development
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Therapeutic services
Best For: Students on the autism spectrum needing specialized support
Location: 1780 Forest Dr, Annapolis, MD
Phone: (410) 573-0950
47. High Road Academy
High Road Academy provides alternative and special education services for students requiring a structured, supportive academic environment. It partners with local districts to support student growth and graduation goals.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Structured classrooms
-
Individualized support
-
Behavioral intervention programs
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Graduation pathway assistance
Programs & Activities
-
Core academics
-
Counseling services
-
Life skills development
-
Career exploration
Best For: Students who benefit from intensive academic and behavioral support
Location: 1111 Benfield Blvd, Millersville, MD
Phone: (410) 987-0600
48. Lighthouse Christian Academy
Lighthouse Christian Academy is a private Christian school serving families in the greater Annapolis area. It integrates faith and academics while maintaining a focus on strong foundational learning.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Biblical worldview
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Small classroom setting
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Family-oriented culture
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Structured academic approach
Programs & Activities
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College-prep coursework
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Chapel services
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Athletics
-
Community outreach
Best For: Families seeking faith-based education with personal attention
Location: 669 Ritchie Hwy, Severna Park, MD
Phone: (410) 647-2522
49. Chesapeake Montessori School (Upper Grades Program)
Chesapeake Montessori School offers Montessori-based education through upper grade levels, preparing students for high school with independence and critical thinking skills. Families value its individualized approach and hands-on learning philosophy.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Montessori methodology
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Student independence focus
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Small classes
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Experiential learning
Programs & Activities
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Project-based learning
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Arts and music
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Outdoor education
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Leadership activities
Best For: Students who thrive in self-directed learning environments
Location: 1400 Forest Dr, Annapolis, MD
Phone: (410) 757-4740
50. Yeshiva of Greater Washington (Regional Option)
Yeshiva of Greater Washington serves families seeking Jewish religious education combined with college-preparatory academics. While located outside Annapolis, it is an option for families willing to commute for faith-based secondary education.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Jewish studies integration
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Strong academic standards
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Close-knit community
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Structured learning environment
Programs & Activities
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Torah studies
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College preparatory curriculum
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Leadership programs
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Community service
Best For: Families seeking Orthodox Jewish secondary education
Location: 1216 Arcola Ave, Silver Spring, MD
Phone: (301) 649-7077
How to Choose the Right High School in Annapolis
Selecting the right high school in Annapolis can feel overwhelming, but focusing on a few key factors can help parents and students make a confident choice:
Academics: Look at AP, IB, STEM, and honors programs. Consider your child’s strengths, interests, and college goals.
Class Size: Smaller classes often allow for more individualized attention, while larger schools may offer more diverse programs.
Safety: Review school safety policies, campus security measures, and the overall school climate.
Extracurriculars: Consider sports, arts, clubs, and leadership opportunities. Participation enhances social skills and college applications.
Career Pathways: For students interested in vocational training or STEM careers, check for career academies, technical programs, or internships.
Location: Proximity to home affects commute time and involvement in school events.
School Culture: Visit schools to assess values, community spirit, and how students interact with staff and peers.
Admission Requirements For High Schools in Annapolis
Public Schools:
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Typically accept students based on residential zoning.
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Standard enrollment includes proof of residency, birth certificate, and immunizations.
Charter/Magnet Schools:
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May require an application or lottery system.
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Some programs request test scores, essays, or interviews for specialized tracks like STEM or IB.
Private Schools:
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Require an application, transcripts, recommendation letters, and sometimes standardized test scores.
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Interviews with parents and students are often part of the process.
Application Process (Step-by-Step)
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Research Schools: Identify top high schools in Annapolis that match your child’s interests.
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Check Requirements: Confirm application deadlines, documents, and eligibility.
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Submit Application: Complete forms, provide transcripts, and submit recommendations.
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Attend Tours or Interviews: Visit campuses to meet faculty and students.
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Wait for Acceptance or Lottery Results: Charter and private schools may notify applicants weeks later.
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Enrollment: Submit enrollment forms, pay tuition if applicable, and complete orientation.
High Schools in Annapolis Tuition & Costs
Public Schools in Annapolis: Free for residents.
Private School Tuition Ranges:
| School Type | Typical Annual Tuition | Additional Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Private Catholic | $12,000–$20,000 | Books, uniforms, activities |
| Independent Private | $20,000–$35,000 | Labs, athletics, trips |
| Special Education Private | $25,000–$50,000 | Therapy, transportation |
Families should also consider fees for arts, athletics, technology, and transportation.
Curriculum & Extracurricular Overview
Most Annapolis high schools offer:
Curriculum:
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Core subjects: Math, English, Science, Social Studies
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AP/IB classes
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STEM, arts, and career pathways
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College preparatory programs
Extracurriculars:
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Athletics: Soccer, basketball, swimming, track, rowing
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Arts: Theater, band, choir, visual arts
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Clubs: Robotics, debate, student government, language clubs
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Leadership & service opportunities
FAQ
1. What is the best high school in Annapolis?
Top-ranked options include Annapolis High School, Broadneck High School, and Severna Park High School, each known for strong academics, extracurriculars, and college prep.
2. How do I enroll my child?
Public schools require proof of residency and immunizations. Private and charter schools need applications, transcripts, and sometimes interviews.
3. Are there STEM-focused schools in Annapolis?
Yes, schools like Chesapeake Science Point Public Charter School and CAT North/South emphasize STEM pathways.
4. Private vs Public Schools—what’s the difference?
Public schools are free and typically zoned by residence. Private schools charge tuition, often have smaller classes, and may offer specialized programs or faith-based education.
5. Can students earn college credit in high school?
Yes. Many schools offer AP, IB, dual enrollment, or specialized courses allowing students to earn college credit while still in high school.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right high school in Annapolis is a significant decision for families. By carefully considering academics, extracurriculars, school culture, and student needs, parents can confidently select a school that fosters growth, success, and happiness. Annapolis offers a wide range of top-tier public, charter, and private options, ensuring every student can find the right environment to thrive. With careful planning and research, families can set their children on a path to academic excellence and personal development.