The Gwinnett School of Mathematics, Science and Technology (GSMST) in Lawrenceville has been named the seventh‑ranked public high school in the United States by U.S. News & World Report. The school moved up six places from the previous year, joining a select group of schools that excel in academic outcomes and college readiness.
Ranking methodology
U.S. News evaluated more than 27,000 eligible public high schools across all 50 states and Washington, D.C., ultimately ranking nearly 18,000. The rankings rely entirely on quantitative data—state assessment scores, Advanced Placement or International Baccalaureate participation, graduation rates, and performance of underserved students—rather than on classroom visits or facility inspections. Six factors make up the formula:
- College readiness (30%): proportion of seniors earning qualifying AP or IB scores.
- State assessment proficiency (20%): aggregated math, science and reading scores.
- State assessment performance (20%): outcomes relative to expectations based on the school’s share of underserved students.
- Underserved student performance (10%): comparison of Hispanic, Black and low‑income student outcomes with non‑underserved peers.
- College curriculum breadth (10%): breadth of AP/IB courses offered.
- Graduation rate (10%).
GSMST tied for first nationally in both graduation rate and state assessment proficiency and posted a 99 percent science proficiency score. The school also ranked No. 42 for college readiness and No. 26 for curriculum breadth. In the STEM‑specific ranking, GSMST placed 12th nationwide.
Local significance
GSMST is the only Georgia school to break into the national top ten, giving Metro Atlanta a prominent place among the country’s highest‑performing public high schools. LaMont Jones, Ed.D., managing editor for education at U.S. News, said the rankings are intended to provide families with fact‑based information to help them decide where to send their children.
“When you know we do these rankings in U.S. News, whether it’s the best colleges, or global universities, or even high schools, the objective is to get important data, fact‑based information to parents and students to help them make the best decisions they can about where they want to send their kids to school,” Jones said.
What families should consider
While the rankings offer a useful starting point, Jones cautioned that they do not capture every aspect of a school’s environment. He encouraged families to weigh personal preferences, financial circumstances, and other factors that matter to their individual situations.
“They’re a starting point. Think about your personal preferences, your personal financial situation, whatever is personal for you and your family, and use this as a starting point to help you make your decision,” he added.
Community reaction
Local parents and community leaders expressed pride in the achievement, noting that the school’s success reflects both strong academic programs and the dedication of teachers and families. The recognition also highlights the quality of education options available to families in Lawrenceville and the broader Metro Atlanta area.
As GSMST celebrates its national standing, the school continues to focus on preparing students for college and beyond, reinforcing the importance of rigorous curricula and supportive learning environments for the next generation of Georgia scholars.
Original reporting: SaportaReport — read the source article.
