The Alabama School of Mathematics and Science (ASMS) has achieved a significant national milestone, securing the 19th spot in Niche's 2026 rankings of the best public high schools in the United States. This distinction also positions the Mobile-based residential institution as the highest-ranked public high school in the state of Alabama.
Key Takeaways
- The Alabama School of Mathematics and Science (ASMS) was ranked the 19th best public high school in the nation by Niche.
- ASMS is the top-ranked public high school in Alabama, sweeping multiple number one state-level categories for the second consecutive year.
- The school earned the #1 position in Alabama for Best Public High School, Best for STEM, Best College Prep, and Best Magnet High School.
- Rankings are determined by a combination of federal data, academic performance, and feedback from students, parents, and alumni.
National Recognition for Alabama Institution
The Alabama School of Mathematics and Science, a public residential high school located in Mobile, has been named one of the elite secondary schools in the country. In the latest rankings released by Niche, a leading platform for school and neighborhood data, ASMS placed No. 19 nationally among all public high schools.
This achievement places the specialized school in the top percentile of educational institutions nationwide. The national ranking highlights the school's academic rigor, student success, and overall educational environment on a competitive stage that includes thousands of high schools across the country.
Ranking Methodology
According to Niche, the 2026 rankings are compiled using a comprehensive analysis of various data sources. These include academic performance metrics, data from the U.S. Department of Education, and millions of reviews and survey responses from students, alumni, and parents.
Dominance in Statewide Categories
In addition to its national honors, ASMS has demonstrated consistent excellence within its home state. For the second year in a row, the school has been recognized as the premier institution in Alabama across several key areas. This continued success underscores its position as a leader in specialized education in the region.
The school's top placements in the state reaffirm its mission to provide an advanced educational experience for academically talented students from across Alabama. The consistent high marks suggest a sustained level of quality and student satisfaction.
ASMS Alabama Rankings for 2026
Niche awarded the Alabama School of Mathematics and Science the number one spot in the following statewide categories:
- #1 Best Public High School in Alabama
- #1 Best High School for STEM in Alabama
- #1 Best College Prep Public High School in Alabama
- #1 Best Magnet High School in Alabama
These top rankings reflect the school's specialized focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), as well as its effectiveness in preparing students for higher education. The designation as the best magnet high school also highlights its role in drawing gifted students from diverse backgrounds.
About the Alabama School of Mathematics and Science
ASMS is a public residential high school that serves academically gifted sophomores, juniors, and seniors from every county in Alabama. The school offers a curriculum that is significantly more advanced than typical high school programs, with a strong emphasis on STEM fields alongside comprehensive humanities courses. Students live on campus, creating an immersive, college-like learning environment.
Leadership and Student Perspectives
ASMS President Dr. John Hoyle commented on the achievement, attributing the school's success to the collective efforts of its community. He acknowledged the contributions of the students, faculty, staff, alumni, and the broader support network that helps the institution thrive.
The sentiment was shared by students, who feel a strong connection to the school and its unique environment. Emma Kate South, a senior from Baldwin County, expressed her pride in the national recognition.
“I knew from my first step on campus three years ago that ASMS was something incredibly special, and these rankings solidified that,” said South. “Seeing the school that changed my life get recognized not just as the best in our state, but also within the very best in our nation, makes me even more proud to be a dragon. Now, the world gets to know what I do — everything that happens here at ASMS is nothing short of extraordinary.”
South's comments reflect the transformative impact the school has on its attendees, providing an environment that fosters both academic and personal growth. The national ranking serves as external validation for the experiences that students and staff have long valued within the school community.