Benjamin Philips
Choosing the right high school in Amarillo, USA can shape your child’s academic future, college opportunities, and confidence. From strong public high schools in Amarillo to faith-based and private academies, families have several solid options. In this guide, you’ll discover the top high schools in Amarillo, what makes each unique, and how to decide which environment best fits your student’s goals, personality, and career interests.
High Schools in Amarillo Comparison Table
| School Name | Type | Grades | Known For | Best For Students Who |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amarillo High School | Public | 9–12 | Academics & Athletics | Want strong college prep & sports |
| Tascosa High School | Public | 9–12 | Career pathways | Prefer hands-on & technical programs |
| Palo Duro High School | Public | 9–12 | Diverse programs | Thrive in vibrant, inclusive settings |
| Caprock High School | Public | 9–12 | Fine arts & AP | Enjoy arts and leadership |
| Randall High School | Public | 9–12 | Academic excellence | Aim for competitive colleges |
| West Plains High School | Public | 9–12 | Modern campus | Prefer newer facilities |
| Amarillo Collegiate Academy | Charter | 6–12 | STEM focus | Love science & technology |
| San Jacinto Christian Academy | Private | PK–12 | Faith-based education | Want Christian-centered learning |
| Ascension Academy | Private | PK–12 | Catholic academics | Seek structured faith & academics |
| Highland Park High School | Public | 9–12 | Small class sizes | Prefer close-knit community |
Top 25 High Schools in Amarillo
1. Amarillo High School
Amarillo High School is one of the most recognized public high schools in Amarillo. Known for strong academics and competitive athletics, it consistently prepares students for college and career success. The campus culture encourages leadership, involvement, and academic achievement.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Strong Advanced Placement offerings
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Award-winning athletic teams
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Active student organizations
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College readiness focus
Programs & Activities
AP courses, athletics, fine arts, debate, career pathways.
Best For: Students seeking balanced academics and extracurricular excellence
Location: 4225 Danbury Dr, Amarillo, TX
Phone: (806) 326-2000
2. Tascosa High School
Tascosa High School offers a well-rounded education with strong career and technical education pathways. Students benefit from both academic and vocational opportunities that prepare them for college or workforce entry.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Career & technical education tracks
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Athletic programs
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Inclusive environment
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Strong community support
Programs & Activities
CTE programs, athletics, band, ROTC, AP courses.
Best For: Students interested in hands-on learning and career skills
Location: 3921 Wllee Rd, Amarillo, TX
Phone: (806) 326-2200
3. Palo Duro High School
Palo Duro High School emphasizes diversity, engagement, and student achievement. It serves a vibrant community and offers multiple academic pathways.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Diverse student population
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AP and honors classes
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Strong fine arts
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Support programs
Programs & Activities
AP classes, athletics, performing arts, student leadership groups.
Best For: Students who thrive in diverse and active school communities
Location: 1400 N Grant St, Amarillo, TX
Phone: (806) 326-2400
4. Caprock High School
Caprock High School provides a supportive learning environment with emphasis on academics and extracurricular involvement.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Strong arts programs
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College-prep courses
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Student leadership opportunities
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Supportive teachers
Programs & Activities
Fine arts, athletics, AP coursework, clubs.
Best For: Creative students who value leadership and community
Location: 3001 E 34th Ave, Amarillo, TX
Phone: (806) 326-2600
5. Randall High School
Randall High School is widely regarded for academic rigor and competitive extracurricular programs.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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High graduation rates
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Strong STEM courses
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Competitive sports
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College-focused curriculum
Programs & Activities
AP courses, athletics, UIL competitions, leadership clubs.
Best For: High-achieving students targeting competitive universities
Location: 9201 FM 2590, Amarillo, TX
Phone: (806) 677-2300
6. West Plains High School
West Plains High School offers modern facilities and growing academic programs.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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New campus
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Technology integration
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Academic growth
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Student engagement
Programs & Activities
STEM courses, athletics, arts programs.
Best For: Students who value innovation and modern learning spaces
Location: 10576 Arden Rd, Amarillo, TX
Phone: (806) 677-2500
7. Amarillo Collegiate Academy
Amarillo Collegiate Academy focuses on STEM education and academic rigor.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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STEM emphasis
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College readiness
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Structured learning environment
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Supportive culture
Programs & Activities
STEM labs, college prep, leadership development.
Best For: Students passionate about science and engineering
Location: 6000 W 45th Ave, Amarillo, TX
Phone: (806) 418-2300
8. San Jacinto Christian Academy
San Jacinto Christian Academy provides a faith-based private education with strong academic standards.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Christian-centered education
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Small class sizes
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Character development
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Academic support
Programs & Activities
Bible studies, athletics, arts, college prep.
Best For: Families seeking Christian education in Amarillo
Location: 501 S Carolina St, Amarillo, TX
Phone: (806) 373-3113
9. Ascension Academy
Ascension Academy offers Catholic-based education with structured academic programs.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Faith integration
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Academic discipline
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Small community feel
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Leadership focus
Programs & Activities
College prep curriculum, service programs, athletics.
Best For: Students seeking Catholic education in Amarillo
Location: 9301 Ascension Pkwy, Amarillo, TX
Phone: (806) 376-4084
10. Highland Park High School
Highland Park High School provides small class sizes and personalized instruction.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Close-knit community
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Individual attention
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Athletic programs
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Supportive environment
Programs & Activities
CTE programs, athletics, clubs.
Best For: Students who prefer smaller public schools in Amarillo
Location: 15300 Amarillo Blvd E, Amarillo, TX
Phone: (806) 335-1084
11. River Road High School
River Road High School offers strong academics within a community-driven setting.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Community involvement
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College prep
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Athletics
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Student engagement
Programs & Activities
AP coursework, sports, fine arts.
Best For: Students who thrive in supportive suburban settings
Location: 10101 US-87, Amarillo, TX
Phone: (806) 381-7800
12. Bushland High School
Bushland High School is known for academic excellence and strong extracurricular programs.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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High test scores
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Strong athletics
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Leadership development
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Engaged parents
Programs & Activities
STEM, athletics, UIL competitions.
Best For: High-achieving students in smaller districts
Location: 1700 FM 2381, Amarillo, TX
Phone: (806) 359-5418
13. Canyon High School
Canyon High School serves nearby families with competitive academics and sports.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Competitive programs
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AP courses
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Strong athletic reputation
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Community support
Programs & Activities
College prep, athletics, clubs.
Best For: Students seeking strong academics near Amarillo
Location: 1701 23rd St, Canyon, TX
Phone: (806) 677-2700
14. Midway Alternative High School
Midway Alternative High School supports students needing flexible academic pathways.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Individualized support
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Flexible scheduling
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Credit recovery
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Small environment
Programs & Activities
Alternative curriculum, counseling services.
Best For: Students who benefit from personalized academic support
Location: 5800 Bell St, Amarillo, TX
Phone: (806) 326-3000
15. Amarillo ISD Early College High School
Amarillo ISD Early College High School allows students to earn college credits while completing high school.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Dual credit opportunities
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College exposure
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Academic rigor
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Reduced college costs
Programs & Activities
Dual credit courses, academic advising, leadership programs.
Best For: Students aiming to graduate with college credits
Location: 2201 S Washington St, Amarillo, TX
Phone: (806) 371-5000
16. Premier High School of Amarillo
Premier High School of Amarillo is a tuition-free public charter school designed for students who benefit from a flexible, self-paced learning structure. It focuses on helping students stay on track for graduation, especially those who may need credit recovery or a nontraditional classroom environment. Smaller class sizes allow teachers to provide personalized attention and mentorship.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Flexible scheduling options
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Individualized graduation plans
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Supportive learning environment
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Focus on credit recovery
Programs & Activities
Self-paced curriculum, core academics, career readiness support, graduation planning.
Best For: Students who need flexible schedules or personalized academic pacing
Location: 324 SW 9th Ave, Amarillo, TX
Phone: (806) 373-5800
17. Richard Milburn Academy Amarillo
Richard Milburn Academy Amarillo is a public charter school that emphasizes dropout prevention and academic recovery. The school works closely with students to create achievable goals and graduation pathways. Its structured yet supportive environment helps students regain confidence in their academic abilities.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Smaller class sizes
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Individual learning plans
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Focus on graduation success
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Supportive staff
Programs & Activities
Core academics, credit recovery, career planning, mentoring programs.
Best For: Students seeking a second chance to complete high school successfully
Location: 2415 S Georgia St, Amarillo, TX
Phone: (806) 353-1900
18. Amarillo ISD Alternative Education Center
The Amarillo ISD Alternative Education Center provides structured academic support for students who require a different setting than traditional public high schools in Amarillo. The focus is on academic progress, behavioral growth, and preparing students to transition back to their home campus.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Structured learning environment
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Behavioral and academic support
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Individual attention
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Transition planning
Programs & Activities
Core coursework, counseling services, structured discipline programs.
Best For: Students who need additional structure and focused academic support
Location: 7200 Interstate 40 West, Amarillo, TX
Phone: (806) 326-5600
19. Victory Christian Academy
Victory Christian Academy offers faith-based private education in Amarillo with an emphasis on character development and academic excellence. The school integrates Christian values into daily instruction while maintaining strong academic standards.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Christian-centered curriculum
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Small class sizes
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Strong moral foundation
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Family-oriented environment
Programs & Activities
Bible studies, athletics, fine arts, college preparatory coursework.
Best For: Families seeking a faith-driven private high school experience
Location: 7700 S Soncy Rd, Amarillo, TX
Phone: (806) 359-5444
20. Texas Leadership Charter Academy Amarillo
Texas Leadership Charter Academy Amarillo focuses on leadership development alongside academic instruction. As a charter option, it offers a structured environment that emphasizes responsibility, character, and academic achievement.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Leadership-focused culture
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Structured academic expectations
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Character education
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College readiness focus
Programs & Activities
Core academics, leadership programs, extracurricular clubs, college prep guidance.
Best For: Students who thrive in structured, character-focused environments
Location: 6000 W 45th Ave, Amarillo, TX
Phone: (806) 318-9600
21. Amarillo Montessori Academy High School Program
Amarillo Montessori Academy offers a unique student-centered approach that encourages independence and critical thinking. The high school program blends academic rigor with individualized learning plans, allowing students to take ownership of their education.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Montessori-based instruction
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Emphasis on independence
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Small learning community
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Personalized guidance
Programs & Activities
College preparatory courses, project-based learning, community service initiatives.
Best For: Independent learners who thrive in self-directed environments
Location: 3501 S Soncy Rd, Amarillo, TX
Phone: (806) 355-3513
22. Amarillo Preparatory Academy
Amarillo Preparatory Academy is designed to prepare students for higher education through a rigorous curriculum and structured environment. The school emphasizes discipline, academic performance, and student accountability.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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College-prep focus
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Structured academic system
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Small class sizes
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Engaged faculty
Programs & Activities
Advanced coursework, leadership programs, academic competitions.
Best For: Students aiming for competitive college admissions
Location: 6000 W 45th Ave, Amarillo, TX
Phone: (806) 410-0000
23. Excel Academy Charter School Amarillo
Excel Academy Charter School Amarillo offers a personalized learning model that adapts to each student’s pace and goals. The school prioritizes academic achievement while providing flexible scheduling for families.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Flexible academic pacing
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Individual support
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Career readiness guidance
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Smaller classes
Programs & Activities
Core subjects, graduation planning, mentoring, career exploration programs.
Best For: Students who benefit from flexible academic structures
Location: 2626 W Amarillo Blvd, Amarillo, TX
Phone: (806) 373-1800
24. North Heights Alternative School
North Heights Alternative School provides targeted academic support for students who require nontraditional education pathways. The campus focuses on helping students meet graduation requirements through personalized instruction.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Individualized instruction
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Credit recovery programs
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Supportive faculty
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Structured environment
Programs & Activities
Core academics, counseling services, behavior support programs.
Best For: Students seeking alternative pathways toward graduation
Location: 1100 NW 18th Ave, Amarillo, TX
Phone: (806) 326-4800
25. Panhandle Christian Academy
Panhandle Christian Academy offers private Christian education in Amarillo with an emphasis on faith integration and academic preparation. The school fosters strong family involvement and student leadership.
Why Parents & Students Like This School
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Biblical worldview integration
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Small classroom settings
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Strong parent involvement
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Character development focus
Programs & Activities
College preparatory academics, athletics, arts programs, service opportunities.
Best For: Families looking for a close-knit Christian high school community
Location: 7201 Arden Rd, Amarillo, TX
Phone: (806) 352-7792
How to Choose the Right High School in Amarillo
Choosing among the best high schools in Amarillo can feel overwhelming. Every student is different, and the right fit depends on personality, goals, and learning style. Here’s what parents should carefully consider:
Academics
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Look at graduation rates and college acceptance trends
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Check availability of AP, dual credit, or STEM programs
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Ask about tutoring and academic support
Class Size
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Smaller schools often offer more personalized attention
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Larger campuses may provide more course variety
Safety & Environment
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Visit the campus
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Ask about discipline policies
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Observe student-teacher interactions
Extracurricular Opportunities
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Athletics
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Fine arts
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Leadership clubs
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Career and technical programs
Career Pathways
Some public high schools in Amarillo offer CTE programs in healthcare, engineering, business, and trades. If your student prefers hands-on learning, this matters.
Location & Transportation
Search for “schools near me” to compare commute times and bus routes.
School Culture
A supportive environment often matters more than rankings. Talk to current parents and students before deciding.
Admission Requirements For High Schools in Amarillo
Understanding high school enrollment in Amarillo helps families avoid surprises.
Public High Schools in Amarillo
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Must live within district boundaries
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Proof of residency required
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Immunization records
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Previous school transcripts
Public schools are tuition-free for residents.
Charter & Magnet Schools
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Open enrollment
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Lottery system if applications exceed capacity
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May require academic interest or commitment forms
Private High Schools in Amarillo
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Application forms
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Interview process
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Academic transcripts
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Entrance assessments (sometimes)
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Tuition required
Private schools often have earlier application deadlines.
Application Process (Step-by-Step)
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Research Schools Early
Review academic programs, graduation rates, and campus culture. -
Schedule Campus Visits
Walk through classrooms and meet counselors. -
Gather Documents
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Birth certificate
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Immunization records
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Proof of residency
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Report cards
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Submit Application or Enrollment Forms
Public schools usually allow online enrollment. -
Attend Orientation
Students receive schedules and meet teachers before the school year starts. -
Finalize Course Selection
Choose electives, AP classes, or career pathways.
High Schools in Amarillo Tuition & Costs
Public high schools in Amarillo are free for district residents. However, there may be additional costs.
| School Type | Tuition Range | Additional Costs |
|---|---|---|
| Public | Free | Sports fees, uniforms, field trips |
| Charter | Free | Activity fees |
| Private | $6,000–$12,000 per year (varies) | Registration, uniforms, technology fees |
Additional Expenses to Consider
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Athletic participation fees
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Band or fine arts supplies
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Transportation
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Lunch programs
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College testing fees (SAT/ACT)
Understanding total costs helps families plan financially.
Curriculum & Extracurricular Overview
Across the top high schools in Amarillo, families can expect:
Core Curriculum
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English
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Mathematics
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Science
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Social Studies
Advanced Options
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Advanced Placement courses
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Dual credit with local colleges
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Honors classes
Career & Technical Education
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Healthcare pathways
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Automotive technology
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Engineering
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Business management
Extracurricular Activities
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Football, basketball, track
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Band, choir, theater
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Robotics and STEM clubs
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Student government
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National Honor Society
Students in Amarillo often have opportunities to earn college credit before graduation, helping reduce future tuition costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best high school in Aliso Viejo?
Aliso Viejo is located in California, not Texas. Families searching for the best high schools in Amarillo should focus on Amarillo ISD, Randall ISD, and private institutions within Amarillo, USA for accurate comparisons.
2. How do I enroll my child in a public high school in Amarillo?
Enrollment typically requires proof of residency, immunization records, and previous transcripts. Most districts allow online registration through their websites.
3. Are there STEM schools in Amarillo?
Yes. Several schools offer strong STEM programs, including charter academies and public campuses with engineering, robotics, and dual credit science courses.
4. What is the difference between public and private high schools in Amarillo?
Public schools are tuition-free and funded by the state. Private high schools in Amarillo charge tuition but may offer smaller class sizes and faith-based education.
5. Can students earn college credit in Amarillo high schools?
Yes. Many campuses offer dual credit courses in partnership with local colleges, allowing students to graduate with transferable college credits.
Final Thoughts
Finding the best high schools in Amarillo is not just about rankings — it’s about fit. Whether your child thrives in large public high schools in Amarillo, a faith-centered private academy, or a flexible charter setting, Amarillo offers meaningful options. Take time to visit campuses, ask questions, and consider your student’s strengths and goals. With the right environment, your child can build confidence, academic success, and a strong foundation for college or career in Amarillo, USA.