The Best Schools in Houston for Families Looking to Move

For families with children, finding a home often means finding the right school district. Houston offers a variety of top-rated schools, making it a great city for families who prioritize education. To make your home search easier, I’ve compiled a guide to some of the best schools in Houston, including public, private, and charter options that excel in academic achievement, extracurricular offerings, and community support.

1. Houston Independent School District (HISD)

The Houston Independent School District is the largest school district in Texas, with over 280 schools. HISD includes a range of highly-rated elementary, middle, and high schools, with some standout options:

• DeBakey High School for Health Professions
  Recognized as one of the top high schools in the nation, DeBakey focuses on health and science fields, making it ideal for students interested in pursuing careers in medicine or health sciences. This magnet school offers rigorous coursework and hands-on learning experiences.

• T.H. Rogers School
  T.H. Rogers is known for its accelerated curriculum and services for gifted and talented students. The school serves grades K-12 and has a reputation for academic excellence, with specialized programs for students with disabilities as well.

• Briargrove Elementary School
  Located in the Briargrove area, this school is well-regarded for its strong academic program and supportive community. It offers a balanced focus on academics and extracurricular activities, making it a great choice for young families.

2. Katy Independent School District (Katy ISD)

For families considering the suburbs, Katy ISD is one of the highest-rated school districts in the Houston metro area. Known for its safe neighborhoods and excellent education, Katy is a popular choice for families looking for a community-oriented environment.

• Cinco Ranch High School
  Cinco Ranch High is recognized for its academic success, AP course offerings, and competitive sports programs. The school emphasizes student leadership and offers various extracurriculars, including a strong fine arts department.

• Tom Wilson Elementary
  This elementary school has a warm, inclusive culture that encourages early academic achievement. Teachers are known for their dedication, and parents appreciate the school’s focus on personalized learning.

• Seven Lakes Junior High
  Located in the Seven Lakes area, this junior high is known for its rigorous academic programs and well-rounded extracurricular activities, such as band, theater, and robotics.

3. The Woodlands – Conroe Independent School District (Conroe ISD)

Conroe ISD serves the Woodlands, a highly desirable suburb north of Houston with plenty of family-friendly amenities. Conroe ISD schools often rank among the best in Texas, making it a great option for families.

• The Woodlands High School
  Known for academic and athletic achievements, The Woodlands High School offers an excellent college preparatory program with numerous AP and Dual Credit options. The school also has strong arts programs and a variety of clubs and activities for students.

• Deretchin Elementary School
  Serving grades K-6, Deretchin is well-loved by parents for its supportive environment and excellent teachers. The school emphasizes foundational learning and has a highly involved parent-teacher organization.

• McCullough Junior High School
  McCullough is known for high academic standards and a commitment to student growth and development. Students at McCullough participate in a variety of extracurricular activities, including academic clubs, fine arts, and athletics.

4. Spring Branch Independent School District (SBISD)

Located west of downtown Houston, Spring Branch ISD is known for its commitment to innovation in education. The district provides various magnet programs and is home to several top-rated schools.

• Memorial High School
  Memorial High consistently ranks as one of the best public high schools in Texas, with a college-prep focus, strong athletics, and an emphasis on academic excellence. The school offers a well-rounded education with numerous extracurricular options.

• Frostwood Elementary School
  A highly sought-after elementary school, Frostwood has a reputation for academic achievement and a supportive community. It has a strong focus on foundational learning and critical thinking skills.

• Spring Forest Middle School
  Spring Forest offers strong academic programs, as well as diverse extracurricular options. The school prioritizes student engagement and has a close-knit, supportive environment.

5. Top Private and Charter Schools in Houston

In addition to excellent public school options, Houston is home to top-rated private and charter schools that offer unique programs and specialized education opportunities.

• St. John’s School
  Known for its rigorous college preparatory program, St. John’s is one of Houston’s most prestigious private schools. With small class sizes, personalized attention, and an emphasis on academic excellence, St. John’s offers a challenging curriculum for students in grades K-12.

• Carnegie Vanguard High School
  This magnet high school is highly regarded for its advanced curriculum focused on gifted and talented students. It has consistently ranked as one of the top high schools in Texas and the nation, with a high college acceptance rate and rigorous academics.

• Harmony Public Schools
  Harmony is a network of charter schools known for its STEM-focused programs and strong academic performance. Harmony offers a college-preparatory curriculum for students from elementary through high school and has multiple campuses throughout Houston.

Houston has an abundance of outstanding school options for families, whether you prefer a public, private, or charter school environment. When looking for a home, consider how the school’s community, extracurricular options, and academic focus align with your family’s values and educational goals. If you're exploring neighborhoods and want guidance on which school districts fit your needs, reach out—I’d be happy to help you find a home in a community where your family can thrive academically and personally.