Best Schools in San Antonio and Nearby Areas

Choosing the right school for your children is one of the most important decisions when moving to a new city. San Antonio and its surrounding areas are home to many excellent schools, both public and private, offering quality education and diverse programs. Here is a guide to some of the best schools in San Antonio and nearby areas to help you make the right choice for your family.

1. Alamo Heights Independent School District (AHISD)

Location: North Central San Antonio
Highlights: Alamo Heights ISD is known for its academic excellence and well-rounded programs that include athletics, arts, and extracurricular activities. The district serves neighborhoods like Alamo Heights, Terrell Hills, and Olmos Park, making it one of the most sought-after school districts in the area.

Top Schools in AHISD:

• Alamo Heights High School: Offers Advanced Placement (AP) and college prep courses, with a focus on academics, sports, and arts.
• Alamo Heights Junior School: Known for its strong emphasis on preparing students for high school through a diverse curriculum.
• Cambridge Elementary: Offers a nurturing environment with a focus on both academic and personal growth.

2. North East Independent School District (NEISD)

Location: Northeast San Antonio
Highlights: NEISD is one of the largest districts in the area, known for its commitment to academic achievement and a wide variety of extracurricular programs. The district covers areas like Stone Oak, Encino Park, and portions of Shavano Park.

Top Schools in NEISD:

• Reagan High School: Highly regarded for its rigorous academic programs and strong athletic department. Reagan consistently ranks among the top high schools in San Antonio.
• Johnson High School: Offers numerous AP courses and has a reputation for academic excellence, as well as strong performing arts and athletic programs.
• Bush Middle School: Known for its supportive learning environment and high academic standards, offering many enrichment programs.

3. Northside Independent School District (NISD)

Location: North and Northwest San Antonio
Highlights: NISD is the largest school district in San Antonio, serving a diverse population. It is recognized for its innovative programs, strong academics, and extensive extracurricular offerings. The district covers popular neighborhoods like Helotes, Alamo Ranch, and Leon Valley.

Top Schools in NISD:

• Clark High School: Known for its high academic standards and numerous extracurricular activities, including a competitive sports program.
• Brandeis High School: Offers a variety of AP courses, honors programs, and extracurricular activities, making it a favorite among families in the northwestern area.
• Hector Garcia Middle School: Provides a strong academic program with a focus on preparing students for high school success, as well as excellent music and athletic programs.

4. Great Hearts Academies

Location: Multiple campuses in San Antonio
Highlights: Great Hearts is a charter school network offering a classical liberal arts education with a focus on academics, arts, and character development. Great Hearts campuses are known for their rigorous curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking and personal growth.

Top Campuses:

• Great Hearts Monte Vista: Located near downtown San Antonio, this campus is popular for its focus on classical education and well-rounded development.
• Great Hearts Northern Oaks: Located in the far north part of San Antonio, this campus serves a broad range of students and provides a challenging academic environment.

5. BASIS San Antonio

Location: Shavano Park and Medical Center area
Highlights: BASIS San Antonio is a highly regarded charter school with a focus on advanced academic programs, including a rigorous curriculum designed to prepare students for college and beyond. BASIS schools consistently rank among the best in the nation, and their San Antonio campuses are no exception.

Top Campuses:

• BASIS Shavano Campus: Known for its challenging curriculum, including advanced math, science, and liberal arts, as well as a strong AP program.
• BASIS Medical Center Campus: Offers a rigorous academic schedule with an emphasis on preparing students for success in higher education.

6. Comal Independent School District (Comal ISD)

Location: North of San Antonio, including areas like New Braunfels, Bulverde, and Spring Branch
Highlights: Comal ISD covers the growing areas north of San Antonio and is known for its commitment to small class sizes, strong community involvement, and a variety of extracurricular programs. The district is ideal for families looking for a suburban or rural environment close to the city.

Top Schools in Comal ISD:

• Smithson Valley High School: Offers a variety of AP courses, vocational training, and a highly-regarded athletic program.
• Spring Branch Middle School: Known for its dedicated teachers and strong focus on academics and student support.
• Timberwood Park Elementary: A newer school with excellent facilities and a strong commitment to student achievement.

7. Boerne Independent School District (Boerne ISD)

Location: Northwest of San Antonio, Boerne area
Highlights: Boerne ISD serves the scenic Hill Country town of Boerne, just northwest of San Antonio. The district is known for its excellent academic programs, supportive community, and high student achievement. Boerne offers a quieter environment with highly rated schools, perfect for families seeking a small-town feel.

Top Schools in Boerne ISD:

• Boerne High School: Offers a strong academic program with AP and dual-credit courses, as well as a well-rounded extracurricular program.
• Champion High School: Known for its rigorous academic courses, competitive sports, and active community involvement.
• Cibolo Creek Elementary: A top choice for young families, offering a caring environment and a strong academic foundation.

8. Private Schools in San Antonio

San Antonio also has a wide selection of private schools that offer specialized programs, small class sizes, and individualized attention.

Top Private Schools:

• The Saint Mary's Hall: A well-established private school with a focus on academic excellence, arts, and athletics, providing education from pre-K through high school.
• Keystone School: Located near downtown, Keystone is known for its rigorous academic program and personalized learning environment.
• TMI Episcopal: Offers a college-preparatory curriculum, leadership programs, and a beautiful campus with extensive extracurricular opportunities, including JROTC.

Conclusion

San Antonio and the surrounding areas offer a wealth of educational opportunities, with top-rated public, charter, and private schools to meet the needs of diverse families. Whether you're looking for an academically rigorous environment, a supportive community, or a school with a strong focus on extracurricular activities, there’s a perfect fit for your child.

If you’re planning a move to San Antonio and need help finding the right neighborhood based on your preferred school options, contact Brad Burnes, a local Realtor who understands the importance of quality education and can help you find the best community for your family. Reach out today to get started!