Your guide to the best public schools in PGC, including those with specializations in STEM and foreign language.

Choosing a public school for your child shouldn't feel like a gamble. Prince George's County offers a surprising range of options — from language immersion and STEM academies to dual-enrollment programs that let students graduate with college credit already in hand. We've rounded up 10 standout schools across the county, each with its own specialty, so you can find the fit that actually matches your child's interests and goals.

This list was made based on information gathered from trusted educational resources online, like school rating websites, official school websites and educational forums.

1. Academy of Health Sciences at Prince George's Community College

The first middle college program in Largo, Academy of Health Sciences students typically graduate with an associate's degree with a focus in Health Sciences or Teaching. The school also offers a variety of STEM-focused after-school clubs to help students build their higher education resumes.

"This school has prepared me for college and some aspects of the real world. It is built for students who have goals and intentions for where they want to go and are focused on elevating and being the best for their future self," one alum said.

A tip for students: 84% of students and parents agree that students at this school are competitive academically, so students should be prepared to push themselves and take advantage of internship options and extracurricular activities.

Address: 301 Largo Road, Largo

District: Prince George's County Public Schools

Noteworthy attributes:

  • 9-12 middle college high school
  • Advanced health courses
  • Chinese language courses
  • Internship options

2. Eleanor Roosevelt High School

Eleanor Roosevelt High School emphasizes personal responsibility, trust and compassion. The school offers a locally designed service-learning program that incorporates science, social studies and independent community service.

"Eleanor Roosevelt has so much [sic] opportunities and clubs to really find your people and find your interests," a student wrote.

A tip for students: 77% of students say kids at this school are involved in school activities, so looking into clubs and extracurricular activities on campus early is a must.

Address: 7601 Hanover Parkway, Greenbelt

District: Prince George's County Public Schools

Noteworthy attributes:

  • 9-12 public high school
  • Science and technology programs available
  • Work-based learning programs
  • Dual enrollment options

3. College Park Academy

Focused on personalized learning, College Park Academy gives students the opportunity to earn up to 60 college credits while learning at their own pace. Rather than only punishing poor behavior, College Park uses a positive behavior incentive system to encourage and reward good actions.

"The faculty always was and is kind. They've helped me get through the day, day by day. Inspiring me to do my best even when it is hard," a senior wrote.

A tip for students: A student poll found that 100% of students and parents surveyed agree that the teachers genuinely care about the students, so there's no need to be afraid to ask your instructor for help when necessary.

Address: 5751 Rivertech Court, Riverdale

District: Prince George's County Public Schools

Noteworthy attributes:

  • 6-12 public charter school
  • Signature programs
  • AP Seminar and AP Research
  • Top Prince George's County school according to U.S. News & World Report

4. Oxon Hill High School

A welcoming environment that transforms students into productive citizens, Oxon Hill High School mixes traditional learning with unique immersive experiences. Every other week, students can participate in Engagement and Achievement activities to learn about different fields and programs.

"They have a lot of activities and their school is very diverse. Students get along with others and connect well with staff," a student wrote.

A tip for students: Student reviews on education platforms highlight that preparation and organization are key to navigating the active school environment.

Address: 6701 Leyte Drive, Oxon Hill

District: Prince George's County Public Schools

Noteworthy attributes:

  • 9-12 public high school
  • Specialized academies
  • Air Force training available
  • Recently expanded student wellness center

5. Chesapeake Math and IT Academy

This STEM based charter school offers unique opportunities for high schoolers to participate in advanced science projects and internships. Lower school programs also give students a leg up in STEM fields through specialized instruction and after school programs.

"Being a student at Chesapeake Math & IT Academy has pushed me to aim higher in both academics and personal growth. From the moment I started here, I knew that this school sets high expectations not just for grades, but for character and effort too," an alum wrote.

A tip for students: 40% of students and parents agree that there are plenty of clubs and organizations for students to get involved in. A recent reviewer stated that some clubs need a one-time donation, so make sure to ask when signing up for extracurriculars so there are no surprises.

Address: 14800 Sweitzer Lane, Laurel

District: Prince George's County Public Schools

Noteworthy attributes:

  • 9-12 public charter high school
  • Sister school to Chesapeake Science Point
  • Partnerships with local colleges and universities
  • Individualized instruction

6. Charles Herbert Flowers High School

Charles Herbert Flowers High School collaborates with students, teachers and parents to create a path for excellence. This school helps college and career readiness through programs ranging from Advanced Placement to Air Force training.

"My experience at Charles Herbert Flowers High School has been positive overall. The best part of the school is the supportive teachers, diverse student body, and opportunities to participate in sports and extracurricular activities," an alum said.

A tip for students: Charles Herbert Flowers HS offers specialized programs that many schools in the area don't, like the Science & Technology or Aerospace Engineering & Aviation Technology. Students who are interested in these fields should take advantage of these programs.

Address: 10001 Ardwick-Ardmore Road, Springdale

District: Prince George's County Public Schools

Noteworthy attributes:

  • 9-12 public high school
  • Dedicated tutoring and extracurricular support time
  • Varied extracurriculars
  • Experienced administration

7. Glenarden Woods Elementary

An encouraging environment where hard work is valued as much (if not more) than innate talent, Glenarden allows students to grow. Challenges are treated like a part of learning and mistakes are considered a part of educational development.

"So, the teachers there are fantastic, I remember that in one year we had like 3 teachers with PhDs. The attitude in the classroom is great. The school starts teaching you about social issues and bullying from the very beginning of second grade, which really engraves these concepts into your mind after 4 years," an alum wrote on GreatSchools.

A tip for students: 75% of students and parents agree that the teachers give engaging lessons, so students should be prepared to take extensive notes. Don't be afraid to raise your hand in class!

Address: 7801 Glenarden Parkway, Glenarden

District: Prince George's County Public Schools

Noteworthy attributes:

  • 2-5 public elementary school
  • Gifted and talented programs available
  • Many creative projects
  • Uses New Mathematics Standards

8. Heather Hills Elementary

This school prioritizes social-emotional support to ensure students are prepared to take on any challenges that may come their way. Small group instruction and writing courses help kids develop the most essential elementary skills.

"Great small community school, very quaint, excellent learning program. I was very impressed with the rate that my daughter learned new content and all the special activities the school performed in," a parent said on GreatSchools.

A tip for students: According to the latest available handbook, students can earn ClassDojo points (earning a monthly certificate of achievement) or earn the designation of Student of the Month, highlighting students who go above and beyond expectations.

Address: 12605 Heming Lane, Bowie

District: Prince George's County Public Schools

Noteworthy attributes:

  • Grades 2-5 public elementary school
  • Gifted and talented programs available
  • Maryland Green School

Before and after care

9. Capitol Heights Elementary

A challenging environment that fosters children's individual gifts, Capitol Heights Elementary offers many enrichment programs so students can explore new skills and interests.

"CHES is a well-rounded school, combined with academics, arts, great staff. We experienced our first year of public school here and it was a great decision," a parent wrote on GreatSchools.

A tip for students: The student-to-teacher ratio is 11:1, giving students a better advantage to a more personalized learning experience. Don't be afraid to take advantage of that opportunity!

Address: 601 Suffolk Avenue, Capitol Heights

District: Prince George's County Public Schools

Noteworthy attributes:

  • K-5 public elementary school
  • Excellence in Gifted and Talented Education Award recipient
  • Dual language Spanish program
  • Arts Integration program

10. Dora Kennedy French Immersion School

An incredible place to develop language skills with gifted and talented programs, Dora Kennedy French Immersion School allows students access to higher level language learning at a public school.

"Dora Kennedy is an amazing school. My 4th grader is nearly fluent in French after 4 years there. He also is excelling in math and science (which he learned about all in French). The Administration is consistent and we could not be more pleased with our experience," a parent said.

A tip for students: This is a language immersion school so be prepared for the challenge of learning your basic studies in two different languages.

Address: 9850 Good Luck Road, Seabrook

District: Prince George's County Public Schools

Noteworthy attributes:

  • K-8 magnet school
  • Language focused
  • Maryland Green School
  • Digital school library