— from Cathy Ferran —

U.S. News and World Report just announced their 2017 Best High Schools rankings. The rankings award the top 6,041 public high schools with gold, silver and bronze medals, indicating their level of college readiness.

Orcas High School has moved up in the rankings from silver to gold status, and is now ranked #8 in Washington state and #452 in the nation.

Schools are ranked based on their performance on state-required tests and how well they prepare students for college.

Students have the opportunity to take Advanced Placement® course work and exams. The AP® participation rate at Orcas Island High School is 88 percent. The student body makeup is 51 percent male and 49 percent female, and the total minority enrollment is 16 percent.

This ranking is an accomplishment that reflects the dedicated efforts of our entire OISD K-12 staff, and the strength and commitment of our local volunteer organizations. Congratulations and thanks to our students, staff and the great community that inspires and supports us.

Complete report: https://www.usnews.com/education/best-high-schools/washington/districts/orcas-island-school-district/orcas-island-high-school-21080