PLSD Celebrates Two High Schools Ranked Among the Nation’s Best

Pickerington Local Schools Celebrates Two High Schools Ranked Among the Nation’s Best by ​U.S. News & World Report
August 19, 2025

Pickerington, OH – Pickerington Local Schools is proud to announce that both of its high schools, Pickerington High School Central (PHSC) and Pickerington High School North (PHSN), have been recognized among the best high schools in the country in the 2025–2026 U.S. News & World Report rankings.

The annual report evaluated more than 24,000 public high schools—in 50 states nationwide, and the District of Columbia—including traditional, charter, and STEM-focused schools. Rankings are based on six key measures: college readiness, state assessment proficiency and performance, underserved student performance, college curriculum breadth, and graduation rate.

“We are thrilled to see both Pickerington High School Central and Pickerington High School North recognized among the top high schools in the nation,” said Superintendent of Pickerington Local Schools Dr. Charles Smialek. “This honor reflects the hard work and heart our students bring to their learning, the unwavering support of our families, and the deep commitment of our educators and staff. These rankings affirm what we already know—that Pickerington is a place where excellence is nurtured, and every student is empowered to thrive.”

Pickerington High School Central earned:

  • #18 in Ohio Metro Area High Schools
  • #85 in Ohio High Schools
  • #2,661 Nationally

Students at PHSC have access to rigorous coursework, including Advanced Placement® classes, with an AP® participation rate of 51%. The school’s student body is 61% minority enrollment, with 30% of students identified as economically disadvantaged.

“We are incredibly proud and humbled by this national recognition,” said Pickerington High School Central Principal Roshawn Parker. “This achievement is a testament to the dedication of our students, the unwavering support of our families, and the tireless commitment of our exceptional staff. At Central, our student-centered approach, guided by our core values of Trust, Integrity, and Empathy, truly makes this a magical place to learn and grow. This ranking underscores our belief that there is no better place to be than here, together as Tigers. Our Core Values continue to T.I.E. us together! #TigerUp #TigersTIE”

Pickerington High School North earned:

  • #13 in Ohio Metro Area High Schools
  • #63 in Ohio High Schools
  • #1,884 Nationally

PHSN offers a strong college preparatory program, with an AP® participation rate of 58%. The school has a diverse student body, with 49% minority enrollment and 21% of students economically disadvantaged.

“We are extremely proud to receive this recognition from U.S. News & World Report,” said Pickerington High School North Principal Mike Hudak . “This honor is a true testament to the dedication and commitment of our district and staff to remain student-centered. Being ranked among the best in the nation, state, and metro area is a direct result of our relentless pursuit of success for our students, staff, and community.”

The complete list of high school rankings can be found on the U.S. News & World Report’s website.

About Pickerington Local Schools