News Summary
Benjamin Franklin High School has been recognized as the top high school in Louisiana, achieving a national rank of No. 99. This marks a significant accomplishment for the school, emphasizing its exceptional academic performance and dedication to rigorous coursework. With over 95% graduation rates and outstanding participation in Advanced Placement courses, the school’s commitment to educational excellence stands apart in the competitive educational landscape of Louisiana. The recognition reflects the unified effort of students, educators, and the community towards achieving high academic standards.
New Orleans Achieves Top High School Recognition
Benjamin Franklin High School has been named the top high school in Louisiana and earned a prestigious rank of No. 99 nationally in the recently released U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best High Schools. This recognition positions Franklin as the only school in the state to break into the national Top 100, highlighting its exceptional academic achievements and rigorous curriculum.
The school also boasts the distinction of being the No. 1 high school in the New Orleans metro area and ranks No. 24 among charter schools across the nation. Serving approximately 1,056 students in grades 9-12, Franklin’s commendable performance is reflected in critical metrics, including a graduation rate exceeding 95%.
In terms of academic rigor, Benjamin Franklin High School showcases a remarkable 91% participation rate in Advanced Placement (AP) courses, with nearly all students scoring 3 or higher on their AP exams. Furthermore, the school’s stellar ACT performance is evidenced by seven students achieving a perfect score of 36, while 31% of the students scored 30 or higher on this standardized test.
Academic Excellence and Performance Metrics
Students at Franklin have demonstrated impressive proficiency levels in key subjects, achieving 91% proficiency in math and 99% proficiency in reading based on state assessments. Achievements like these underscore the school’s commitment to academic excellence and college readiness.
Leadership at the school attributed this success to the curiosity, ambition, and drive of the students. Similarly, local school officials acknowledged the ranking as a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire school community, reflecting a unified commitment to educational quality.
Top Competitors in Louisiana
Benjamin Franklin High School stands out in a competitive educational landscape in Louisiana. Other notable institutions include Haynes Academy School for Advanced Studies, which ranks second in the state, followed by Patrick F. Taylor Science and Technology Academy at third. Haynes Academy reports a 100% AP participation rate, with 75% of students passing at least one AP exam and a graduation rate around 95%. Patrick F. Taylor has a 72% AP participation rate, with 57% passing at least one AP exam. Other well-performing schools include Baton Rouge Magnet High School, Caddo Parish Magnet High School, and LSU Laboratory School.
Education Landscape in Louisiana
The rankings from U.S. News & World Report are based on a variety of factors, emphasizing college readiness through metrics such as graduation rates, performance on state-required tests, and participation in advanced coursework. This data paints a promising picture of the educational environment in Louisiana, where state initiatives, including tutoring programs and literacy screeners, are contributing to improved performance, particularly among 4th and 8th graders.
As educational institutions across the state strive for excellence, the achievements of Benjamin Franklin High School serve as an inspiring benchmark, highlighting the potential for further advancements in Louisiana’s educational rankings.
The school’s address is 2001 Leon C Simon Dr., New Orleans, where academic excellence continues to thrive within its community.
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Additional Resources
- Fox 8 Live
- Shreveport Times
- NOLA.com
- Google Search: Louisiana high schools U.S. News ranking
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Benjamin Franklin High School New Orleans

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