Mississippi has been making strides in education, and as we look towards 2025, several schools stand out for their commitment to academic excellence. Here’s an overview of some of the top K-12 schools in the state.

Top Public Schools

1. Mississippi School for Mathematics and Science (Columbus)
   • Residential public high school for gifted students
   • Consistently ranked as the top public high school in Mississippi
2. Ocean Springs High School (Ocean Springs)
   • Known for strong academic programs and high graduation rates
   • Offers a variety of AP courses and extracurricular activities
3. Petal High School (Petal)
   • Recognized for academic achievement and college readiness
   • Strong focus on STEM education and career technical programs

Top Private Schools

1. St. Andrew’s Episcopal School (Ridgeland)
   • Independent college preparatory school
   • Known for rigorous academics and strong arts programs
2. Jackson Preparatory School (Flowood)
   • Large independent school with a comprehensive college prep curriculum
   • Excels in academics, arts, and athletics
3. St. Joseph Catholic School (Madison)
   • Catholic college preparatory school
   • Emphasizes faith-based education alongside academic excellence

Emerging Trends

• Increased focus on early childhood education programs
• Growing emphasis on career and technical education pathways
• Integration of social-emotional learning into curriculum

Note: School rankings and performance can change over time. It’s always recommended to visit schools, speak with current students and parents, and review the most recent data when making educational decisions.