Benjamin PhilipsChoosing the best high schools in Allentown can feel overwhelming for parents and students alike. With options ranging from public and charter to private schools, each offers unique programs, cultures, and opportunities that shape your child’s future. In this guide, you’ll find a comparison of the top 10 high schools in Allentown, USA, plus detailed insights to help you confidently explore academic strengths, extracurriculars, and what makes each school stand out.
High Schools in Allentown Comparison Table
| School Name | Type | Grades | Known For | Best For Students Who |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Building 21 Allentown | Public | 9–12 | Personalized learning, innovation | Independent learners |
| 2. William Allen High School | Public | 9–12 | Comprehensive programs | Traditional academics & athletics |
| 3. Louis E. Dieruff High School | Public | 9–12 | Large student community | Socially engaged students |
| 4. Executive Education Academy Charter School | Public Charter | 9–12 | Leadership & business focus | Career-minded learners |
| 5. Lincoln Leadership Academy Charter School | Public Charter | K–12 | Leadership development | Students seeking structure |
| 6. Roberto Clemente Charter School | Public Charter | K–12 | Bilingual education | Bilingual learners |
| 7. Allentown Central Catholic High School | Private | 9–12 | Catholic values & athletics | Faith-based learners |
| 8. Lehigh Christian Academy | Private | PK–12 | Christian-centered education | Students wanting faith-based environment |
| 9. Salisbury Senior High School | Public | 9–12 | Smaller school atmosphere | Students preferring small classrooms |
| 10. Kids Peace School – Washington Building | Private | 8–12 | Special education services | Students needing specialized support |
Top 10 High Schools in Allentown
1. Building 21 Allentown
Building 21 Allentown is a public high school focused on competency‑based learning and student choice. Students take ownership of their education through project‑based assessments and flexible learning paths designed to support diverse interests and learning styles. This approach prepares learners for both college and careers in a changing world while promoting critical thinking and real‑world problem solving.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Personalized learning pathways that adapt to student strengths
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Emphasis on real‑world projects and skills
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Smaller community feel for deeper engagement
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Focus on student voice and choice
Programs & Activities
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Project‑based learning experiences
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Applied technology and innovation courses
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Advisory groups and mentorship programs
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Clubs based on student interests
Best For: Independent, creative learners who thrive on choice and collaboration
Location: 265 Lehigh St, Allentown, PA 18102
Phone: 484‑765‑4400
2. William Allen High School
William Allen High School is one of Allentown’s largest public high schools, offering a blend of academic rigor, comprehensive extracurriculars, and strong community traditions. The campus spans multiple buildings, reflecting a long history of serving families in the heart of Allentown. Students benefit from a broad selection of courses and activities to prepare for college and beyond.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Wide variety of academic courses and electives
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Rich history and strong local reputation
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Extensive athletics programs
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Large, diverse student body
Programs & Activities
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Honors and college‑prep courses
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Sports teams across fall, winter, spring seasons
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Arts, music, and theater programs
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Clubs including academic teams and service organizations
Best For: Students seeking a traditional, well‑rounded high school experience
Location: 106 N 17th St, Allentown, PA 18102
Phone: 484‑765‑5001
3. Louis E. Dieruff High School
Louis E. Dieruff High School is a dynamic public high school known for its inclusive environment and diverse course offerings. With a large student population, Dieruff provides opportunities that range from advanced academics to hands‑on career pathways. The school emphasizes community engagement and student support.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Broad academic and elective options
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Strong athletics and arts programs
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Focus on preparing students for college and careers
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Community and cultural engagement
Programs & Activities
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Advanced Placement (AP) courses
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Career and technical education pathways
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Sports teams and competitive arts
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Student clubs and leadership groups
Best For: Students who thrive in a bustling, engaged school setting
Location: Allentown, PA (Exact address available through school district)
4. Executive Education Academy Charter School
Executive Education Academy Charter School focuses on leadership development, business education principles, and personal growth. As a public charter school, it blends academic foundations with career‑oriented learning, emphasizing accountability and ownership of learning.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Leadership and business‑focused curriculum
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Structured environment with clear expectations
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Opportunities for real‑world applications
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Strong focus on character development
Programs & Activities
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Business and entrepreneurship classes
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Leadership workshops and seminars
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Academic clubs and student government
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Community service initiatives
Best For: Career‑minded students with leadership potential
Location: 555 Union Blvd, Allentown, PA 18109
Phone: (610) 841‑7044
5. Lincoln Leadership Academy Charter School
Lincoln Leadership Academy Charter School is a comprehensive public charter serving K–12 with a strong emphasis on leadership, community, and academic achievement. High school students benefit from a supportive atmosphere that encourages personal responsibility and academic growth.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Focus on leadership and character development
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Smaller school community with individualized support
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Diverse curricular pathways
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Emphasis on college readiness
Programs & Activities
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Leadership seminars
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Academic clubs and hands‑on activities
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Athletics and arts programs
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College prep resources
Best For: Students looking for structured support with leadership emphasis
Location: 1414 E Cedar St, Allentown, PA 18109
Phone: (484) 860‑3300
6. Roberto Clemente Charter School
Roberto Clemente Charter School is a bilingual public charter school serving K–12 with strong community roots. The high school program integrates Spanish and English instruction, celebrating cultural assets while providing a comprehensive academic experience.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Bilingual education approach
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Community‑oriented environment
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Personalized attention in smaller classes
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Inclusive, culturally rich programs
Programs & Activities
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Dual language coursework
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Cultural and community events
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Student clubs and service opportunities
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Supportive academic programs
Best For: Bilingual learners and culturally engaged students
Location: 136 South Fourth St, Allentown, PA 18102
7. Allentown Central Catholic High School
Allentown Central Catholic High School is a well‑established private Catholic high school with a strong reputation for academics, athletics, and faith‑based community life. The school emphasizes both intellectual growth and spiritual development.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Strong academic and athletic programs
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Values‑based education rooted in Catholic tradition
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Close‑knit student community
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College preparatory focus
Programs & Activities
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Honors and college prep classes
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Competitive sports teams
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Campus ministry and service programs
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Arts and cultural clubs
Best For: Students seeking faith‑based academics and community
Location: 301 N. 4th St, Allentown, PA 18102
Phone: (610) 437‑4601
8. Lehigh Christian Academy
Lehigh Christian Academy offers a Christian‑centered education from primary through high school. Students benefit from a faith‑based environment that emphasizes academic excellence and spiritual growth.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Faith‑centered learning environment
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Smaller class sizes and individualized attention
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Strong sense of community
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Balanced academics and spiritual development
Programs & Activities
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Bible study and spiritual life programs
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Athletics and extracurricular clubs
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Academic enrichment opportunities
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Community service initiatives
Best For: Students and families seeking Christian and academic balance
Location: 1151 S Cedar Crest Blvd, Allentown, PA 18103
Phone: (610) 776‑7301
9. Salisbury Senior High School
Salisbury Senior High School is a public high school with a smaller enrollment, which offers a more personalized setting for students. While part of a nearby district, it still serves many families connected to the Allentown area and provides a community feel with strong student support.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Smaller student population
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Personalized teacher support
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Strong community engagement
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Opportunities for leadership
Programs & Activities
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Comprehensive academic courses
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Athletics and clubs
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Arts and performance groups
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Supportive counseling services
Best For: Students who prefer smaller cohorts and individual support
Location: 500 E Montgomery St, Allentown, PA 18103
Phone: (610) 797‑4107
10. Kids Peace School – Washington Building
Kids Peace School – Washington Building is a private institution focused on serving students with special education needs and individualized support. As part of the private school offerings in Allentown, it provides tailored learning environments and therapeutic services.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Specialized educational support
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Individualized learning plans
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Caring, supportive staff
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Focus on student well‑being
Programs & Activities
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Therapeutic and academic programs
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Small group instruction
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Social‑emotional learning activities
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Support services for diverse learners
Best For: Students requiring specialized education and support
Location: 1610 E Emmaus Ave, Allentown, PA 18103
Phone: (610) 799‑7620
How to Choose the Right High School in Allentown
Selecting the right high school in Allentown is more than academics—it’s about finding a place where your child thrives socially, emotionally, and intellectually. Here’s a practical guide for parents:
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Academics: Look for strong core subjects, AP/IB options, STEM programs, and enrichment courses. Check student-teacher ratios and test performance.
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Class Size: Smaller classes often mean more personalized attention; larger schools may offer a wider variety of programs.
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Safety: Review school safety reports, security measures, and disciplinary policies.
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Extracurriculars: Sports, arts, debate, clubs, and volunteer opportunities foster social skills and leadership.
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Career Pathways: Consider schools offering internships, vocational programs, or college credit opportunities.
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Location: Proximity to home matters for convenience, transportation, and community involvement.
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School Culture: Observe school values, discipline philosophy, and student support services to ensure the environment matches your child’s personality.
Admission Requirements For High Schools in Allentown
Understanding admission requirements helps you plan early:
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Public Schools: Enrollment usually requires proof of residency, immunization records, and prior school transcripts. Some programs like magnet or specialized academies may have testing or interviews.
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Charter/Magnet Schools: Often require an application, lottery selection, or interviews. Deadlines are critical.
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Private Schools: Admissions may include applications, recommendation letters, interviews, standardized testing, and tuition deposit.
Application Process (Step-by-Step)
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Research Schools: Identify public, charter, and private options in Allentown.
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Visit Schools: Attend open houses, tours, and info sessions.
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Gather Documents: Prepare transcripts, residency proof, immunization records, and recommendations.
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Complete Applications: Submit forms by school-specific deadlines.
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Participate in Interviews/Testing: If required by charter or private schools.
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Await Acceptance: Review offers carefully and consider program fit.
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Confirm Enrollment: Submit deposit or enrollment confirmation for private or specialized programs.
High Schools in Allentown Tuition & Costs
Costs vary widely depending on school type:
| School Type | Tuition / Fees |
|---|---|
| Public Schools | Free (tax-funded) |
| Charter Schools | Free (publicly funded) |
| Private Schools | $8,000 – $20,000+ per year, depending on program and grade |
| Additional Fees | Books, uniforms, extracurricular activities, field trips |
Even in private schools, some offer scholarships, sliding-scale tuition, or financial aid.
Curriculum & Extracurricular Overview
High schools in Allentown typically offer:
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Curriculum: English, math, science, social studies, foreign languages, arts, computer science, and AP/IB courses.
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Extracurriculars: Sports (football, soccer, basketball, track), arts (band, theater, visual arts), academic clubs, STEM clubs, robotics, debate, and student government.
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Special Programs: Career and technical education, dual enrollment with colleges, leadership programs, and community service initiatives.
This combination ensures students have academic rigor and opportunities for personal growth.
FAQ
1. What is the best high school in Allentown?
While “best” depends on your child’s needs, Building 21 Allentown is popular for innovation and student choice, whereas William Allen High School and Allentown Central Catholic are well-regarded for traditional academics and extracurricular breadth.
2. How do I enroll in a high school in Allentown?
For public schools, provide residency, immunization records, and transcripts. Charter schools often use a lottery system, while private schools may require applications, interviews, and standardized tests.
3. Are there STEM-focused schools?
Yes, schools like Building 21 Allentown and certain charter schools offer STEM and project-based programs emphasizing technology, engineering, and applied sciences.
4. Private vs. public schools – which is better?
Public schools are tuition-free and offer diversity and comprehensive programs. Private schools often provide smaller class sizes, specialized curricula, faith-based education, and additional extracurricular options. The choice depends on priorities, budget, and child’s learning style.
5. Can students earn college credit in Allentown high schools?
Yes, many schools offer Advanced Placement (AP) courses, dual enrollment programs, and partnerships with local colleges for early college credit opportunities.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a high school in Allentown is a major step in your child’s educational journey. By evaluating academics, extracurriculars, culture, and logistics, parents can make informed decisions that align with their child’s strengths and interests. With diverse public, charter, and private options, Allentown offers opportunities for every type of learner. Visit schools, talk to staff, and observe environments to ensure your child finds a place where they can thrive academically, socially, and personally. A thoughtful choice today sets the foundation for a bright future.