Beacon High School

Beacon High School is a highly competitive and well-regarded college-preparatory public high school in Manhattan, known for its challenging academics and vibrant environment. The school offers an inquiry-based, liberal arts education that integrates technology and a wide array of arts, including a 9th-grade rotation in drama, dance, music, visual arts, film, and photography. A distinctive feature is its performance-based assessment system, where students present projects to teacher panels for graduation, rather than relying solely on Regents exams (except English). Beacon boasts an exceptionally high 4-year graduation rate of 97%, well above the citywide median, and a strong college enrollment rate of 82.8%, also significantly exceeding the citywide median. English Regents pass rates are excellent at 97.1%. The school occupies a spacious, modern building in Hell's Kitchen, featuring dedicated music and art facilities. It provides extensive opportunities in clubs, sports, community service, and international travel. While parents generally express high satisfaction with passionate and supportive teachers, some students and families note a demanding workload, particularly in junior year, which can lead to stress. Student surveys indicate areas for improvement in how conflicts are resolved and in addressing bullying and substance use.