It would seem that a lot goes into trying to figure out where America's best high schools are and what makes them so special. Niche, the leading platform connecting students and families with colleges and schools, has just published its new 2026 Best Public High Schools In America rankings for the eleventh year. Here's how Niche’s 2026 Best Public High Schools In America rankings were determined:The Best Public High Schools ranking is based on rigorous analysis of academic and student life data from the U.S. Department of Education along with test scores, college data, and ratings collected from millions of Niche users. If finding just the right spot for your kid or grandchild to attend high school is a high priority in your house, read on and we'll point you in the right direction. Getty Images Getty Images loading...Before We Get Into The Top Ten List Of Illinois' Best Public High Schools, Let's Take A Look At Which High School Was Ranked As Being The Best In The Entire CountryThat honor, according to the Niche study, goes to the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics in Durham, North Carolina.