2024 Best Public High Schools in the Indianapolis Area

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Alum: Overall, Carmel High School provided me with a fantastic High School experience. The school is well known within the surrounding community for having great academics and sports, but most people are still unaware of the amazing amount of resources and experiences the school provides. I can absolutely say that I feel fully prepared for college, thanks in part to their comprehensive college and career readiness center, which offers programs that help counsel students on the college application process in various ways - particularly writing essays and completing the common app. I can also say that the counseling department is great at helping students choose the right courses and schedule as well as discussing any issues or questions pertaining to college applications. Another great part of Carmel High School is the widespread sense of community and engagement, as the sports events and clubs/activities offer an abundance of opportunities to get involved.... Read 1,226 reviews
#1 Best Public High Schools in Indianapolis Area.
Carmel High School
Blue checkmark.
Carmel Clay Schools, IN,
9-12,
1226 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says Overall, Carmel High School provided me with a fantastic High School experience. The school is well known within the surrounding community for having great academics and sports, but most people are....
Read 1226 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Students: 5,192,
Student-Teacher Ratio: 18 to 1,
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#2 Best Public High Schools in Indianapolis Area.
Zionsville Community High School
Blue checkmark.
Zionsville Community Schools, IN,
9-12,
463 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says Overall, my time at ZCHS so far has been great! I have met some of the best people and feel welcomed by the kind teachers and staff. I have truly felt cared for by the teachers and administration....
Read 463 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Students: 2,255,
Student-Teacher Ratio: 19 to 1,
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Alum: My high school experience wasn't anything crazy, it doesn't stand out amongst the rest. There were opportunities to engage in such as clubs, AP courses, sports, and our honors diploma "program"; but I just didn't engage. My personal schedule just never worked out that way. I know a lot of people at my high school, who've graduated alongside me, engaged in several opportunities, I would've as well. My best experience was definitely with the teachers, they all were so caring and made an impact on who I am today. However, I didn't really enjoy the school schedule. 9am to 4pm wasn't the best as downtown rush-hour traffic hit as soon as we were dismissed.... Read 349 reviews
#3 Best Public High Schools in Indianapolis Area.
Herron High School
Blue checkmark.
Public School,
INDIANAPOLIS, IN,
9-12,
349 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says My high school experience wasn't anything crazy, it doesn't stand out amongst the rest. There were opportunities to engage in such as clubs, AP courses, sports, and our honors diploma "program"; but....
Read 349 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Students: 995,
Student-Teacher Ratio: 11 to 1,
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Senior: The atmosphere was very dull going into my Freshman year… a lack of guidance and an overall welcoming was immensely apparent. The safety was subpar, kids were found smuggling drugs into the restrooms which they were only found out when another peer reported them. The education was varied across the board, some teachers left me inspired and wanted to pursue a further education in their area of study while others left me wanting nothing more than to leave their classroom. James Gaddy comes to mind as one of the most influential teachers during my high school career. He gave extensive speeches going above and beyond what any teacher would do.... Read 420 reviews
#4 Best Public High Schools in Indianapolis Area.
Westfield High School
Westfield-Washington Schools, IN,
9-12,
420 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says The atmosphere was very dull going into my Freshman year… a lack of guidance and an overall welcoming was immensely apparent.The safety was subpar, kids were found smuggling drugs into the restrooms which they were only found out when another peer reported them.The education was varied across the board, some teachers left me inspired and wanted to pursue a further education in their area of study while others left me wanting nothing more than to leave their....
Read 420 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Students: 2,665,
Student-Teacher Ratio: 18 to 1,
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Alum: The best parts of being at Fishers high school was the school culture and the amount of resources we had in order to be successful. I enjoyed all the staff and teachers I had, they were all looking out for the best in all students and worried about their future. There were many sports and clubs to get involved in and there was always measures for inclusivity at Fishers High school!... Read 832 reviews
#5 Best Public High Schools in Indianapolis Area.
Fishers High School
Blue checkmark.
Hamilton Southeastern School District, IN,
9-12,
832 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says The best parts of being at Fishers high school was the school culture and the amount of resources we had in order to be successful. I enjoyed all the staff and teachers I had, they were all looking....
Read 832 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A,
Students: 3,674,
Student-Teacher Ratio: 23 to 1,
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Senior: I am a student heading into my senior year at Brownsburg High School. I have spent the other years also at Brownsburg High School. And I don’t think I could’ve asked for a better high school. There is something for everyone, whether or not you’re going their for sports, music, or academics. I’d say it is one of the most well rounded high schools in the state of Indiana. And I’ve been blessed to be able to take advantage of that because of the amazing counseling and faculty that are available to you as much as you need them.... Read 709 reviews
#6 Best Public High Schools in Indianapolis Area.
Brownsburg High School
Blue checkmark.
Brownsburg Community School Corporation, IN,
9-12,
709 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says I am a student heading into my senior year at Brownsburg High School. I have spent the other years also at Brownsburg High School. And I don’t think I could’ve asked for a better high school. There....
Read 709 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A,
Students: 3,177,
Student-Teacher Ratio: 19 to 1,
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Alum: I was in Band, Choir, and Theatre during my time at the High School and the department was severely underfunded. So I question the school and how they choose to spend their money. With multiple flat screen T.Vs and a new sound system that collects dust I wonder why they do not put that money towards the art department. Staff are some of the best educators around. The teachers love their subjects and are dedicated to teaching students... Read 102 reviews
#7 Best Public High Schools in Indianapolis Area.
Speedway Senior High School
Blue checkmark.
School Town of Speedway, IN,
9-12,
102 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says I was in Band, Choir, and Theatre during my time at the High School and the department was severely underfunded. So I question the school and how they choose to spend their money. With multiple flat....
Read 102 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A,
Students: 565,
Student-Teacher Ratio: 17 to 1,
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Senior: I love what I made of my high school experience and if it weren't for the opportunities my school has provided, my experience wouldn't have been so great. During my freshman year of high school I applied for Blue crew, which is a committee that leads and runs student sections for all sporting events. Because of Blue crew I was able to form friendships and make memories that most high schoolers won't have. Friday night football games and basketball games are a feeling like no other. My school has also created classes based on student interest. I was about to be in our PR class this year and work and learn from talented people in our community. I also was able to take an interior design class which sparked my passion for design. All schools have their set of teachers that could lead better, but there a many teachers in my school who have helped me not just academically, but as a person as well. I am very grateful for my school and I take a lot of pride in being a royal.... Read 772 reviews
#8 Best Public High Schools in Indianapolis Area.
Hamilton Southeastern High School
Blue checkmark.
Hamilton Southeastern School District, IN,
9-12,
772 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says I love what I made of my high school experience and if it weren't for the opportunities my school has provided, my experience wouldn't have been so great. During my freshman year of high school I....
Read 772 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A,
Students: 3,450,
Student-Teacher Ratio: 21 to 1,
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Junior: With one of America's best bands and state-qualifying orchestras and choirs, Avon High School is the perfect place for me! Being a part of Avon's Performing Arts program has been fantastic. The director, students, and parent involvement have been amazing within the arts programs. Approaching my senior year, I am sad that I will no longer be able to be a part of such an awesome program. Avon also provides clubs for everyone's interests! From pre-law and pre-med to rock climbing club, Avon has it all! Although Avon has awesome programs and opportunities, there are some things I feel could make this school a better overall experience. Furthermore, some violence that has occurred within the school has resulted in some students feeling unsafe or scared in the hallways. Luckily, the school has created several rules and apps to create a safer environment for all students! I am looking forward for Avon to become a better place for future students and staff!... Read 818 reviews
#9 Best Public High Schools in Indianapolis Area.
Avon High School
Blue checkmark.
Avon Community School Corporation, IN,
9-12,
818 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says With one of America's best bands and state-qualifying orchestras and choirs, Avon High School is the perfect place for me! Being a part of Avon's Performing Arts program has been fantastic. The....
Read 818 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A,
Students: 3,348,
Student-Teacher Ratio: 19 to 1,
View nearby homes
Alum: Some of the best parts of Plainfield high School were the teachers and their willingness to work with the kids. I had very few rough patches with teachers, and they always seemed to have something fun to do or a great connection with their kids. They would remember you years after having you, and they're all very trans and LGBTQ+ inclusive, which was a huge plus for me. The only negative experiences I had involved the drama of my grade and the ones before it. The kids weren't good at keeping to themselves about falsehoods or people just living their lives, but most of it was fluff for the kids to feel better about themselves anyways. I would like the drama to be better controlled, but if you're good at ignoring the bad around you (especially if it's all dramatic, unnecessary hatred), then it's a good experience.... Read 382 reviews
#10 Best Public High Schools in Indianapolis Area.
Plainfield High School
Plainfield Community School Corporation, IN,
9-12,
382 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says Some of the best parts of Plainfield high School were the teachers and their willingness to work with the kids. I had very few rough patches with teachers, and they always seemed to have something....
Read 382 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A,
Students: 1,782,
Student-Teacher Ratio: 20 to 1,
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#11 Best Public High Schools in Indianapolis Area.
Ben Davis University High School
Metropolitan School District of Wayne Township, IN,
10-12,
258 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.
Featured Review: Parent says Faculty and professors welcome any questions and address any and all issues in a timely manner. The professors care about their scholar’s education and always available to assist when and where....
Read 258 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A,
Students: 358,
Student-Teacher Ratio: 20 to 1,
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Alum: The different activities, clubs, teams, sports, and music programs are extremely diverse at Center Grove with most of them being highly rated in the state or nation. The student life was fun and exciting being able to pick and choose various clubs that cater to anyone and everyone, and the academic experience was decent. Most of the teachers there wants the students to succeed and encouraged them to ask for help, but some teachers weren't the same way and would have obvious favorites that they would have bias over and wouldn't respond to students asking for help very kindly.... Read 532 reviews
#12 Best Public High Schools in Indianapolis Area.
Center Grove High School
Blue checkmark.
Center Grove Community School Corporation, IN,
9-12,
532 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says The different activities, clubs, teams, sports, and music programs are extremely diverse at Center Grove with most of them being highly rated in the state or nation. The student life was fun and....
Read 532 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A,
Students: 2,851,
Student-Teacher Ratio: 21 to 1,
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Alum: North Central while it had its flaws and trust me there were a few of them, it helped me feel more prepared for college because I was academically challenged and I was gifted study techniques that I still use in college. It also created a sense of family when it came to performing arts and I now have friendships that will last a lifetime. And no school is perfect and there are plenty of areas where North Central could improve particularly with the administration, but overall it is a really good place to be for high school and it shaped me into who I am and for that I am forever greatful.... Read 886 reviews
#13 Best Public High Schools in Indianapolis Area.
North Central High School
Metropolitan School District of Washington Township, IN,
9-12,
886 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says North Central while it had its flaws and trust me there were a few of them, it helped me feel more prepared for college because I was academically challenged and I was gifted study techniques that I....
Read 886 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A,
Students: 3,628,
Student-Teacher Ratio: 16 to 1,
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#14 Best Public High Schools in Indianapolis Area.
Noblesville High School
Noblesville Schools, IN,
9-12,
712 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says I honestly don’t mind attending this school since I do enjoy going here. Although I do not like some classes because certain teachers doest’t teach, other classes that I like do make it up. I just....
Read 712 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A,
Students: 3,227,
Student-Teacher Ratio: 17 to 1,
View nearby homes
Junior: Herron-Riverside High School is a school that has a very welcoming aura. At first, it may feel scary or uncomfortable because the school is much smaller and everyone already knows each other. Despite this, it is not hard to adjust to Riverside life. The teachers are kind and make sure to learn the names of every student. They greet you at the doors when you get to class and create a nice environment for learning. The higher standard of education at the school is also something that I appreciate because it provides more of a challenge and more motivation for students to try their best to succeed.... Read 18 reviews
#15 Best Public High Schools in Indianapolis Area.
Herron-Riverside High School
Blue checkmark.
Public School,
INDIANAPOLIS, IN,
9-12,
18 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says Herron-Riverside High School is a school that has a very welcoming aura. At first, it may feel scary or uncomfortable because the school is much smaller and everyone already knows each other. Despite....
Read 18 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A minus,
Students: 409,
Student-Teacher Ratio: 7 to 1,
View nearby homes
Senior: The experiance of Franklin central highschool was actually pretty nice overall as i grew as a person through the years. Freshmen year was a bit of a drowner because of covid things like french class was hard because it wasn't in person as much as i needed it to be, and school work at home amd school work at school are completly different settings that i am glad it was majority of school for the rest of my highschool years. The best was Senior year as I got to explore most about myself and my future, but also the most nerve racking as you move on from what a younger kid would call a normal life.... Read 586 reviews
#16 Best Public High Schools in Indianapolis Area.
Franklin Central High School
Blue checkmark.
Franklin Township Community School Corporation, IN,
9-12,
586 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says The experiance of Franklin central highschool was actually pretty nice overall as i grew as a person through the years. Freshmen year was a bit of a drowner because of covid things like french class....
Read 586 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A minus,
Students: 3,319,
Student-Teacher Ratio: 21 to 1,
View nearby homes
Senior: Being a student at Perry Meridian High School has overall been a great experience so far. From the great diversity to the outstanding education and teachers, students at our school are receiving an above average high school experience. Getting involved in clubs and attending events is the key to enjoying your time at Perry Meridian; clubs and sports make our culture. Education at Perry Meridian is also great; our DC and AP programs produce committed and determined students like me. Where the school falls short, however, is through its facilities. This school is older than most schools in the area, making it seem less nice compared to other schools. During my time at Perry Meridian, we have slowly gotten grants to redo certain aspects of the school, such as getting a new gymnasium floor, but nothing drastic enough to change the overall retro-feel. We have a lovely custodial staff that keeps the school clean, but they can only do so much to fix the plumbing issues that we tend to have.... Read 479 reviews
#17 Best Public High Schools in Indianapolis Area.
Perry Meridian High School
Perry Township Schools, IN,
9-12,
479 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says Being a student at Perry Meridian High School has overall been a great experience so far. From the great diversity to the outstanding education and teachers, students at our school are receiving an....
Read 479 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A minus,
Students: 2,350,
Student-Teacher Ratio: 19 to 1,
View nearby homes
Junior: Overall, attending Cascade High School has been a very positive experience. The student life and involvement has been wonderful and the atmosphere of the school is very positive. I would like to see more discipline and action taken by the administration regarding issues in the school, such as taking action against vaping and fights. However, the good definitely outweighs the bad at Cascade. Most athletic departments are well supported, put-together, and successful, and the students and very involved in attending sporting events.... Read 184 reviews
#18 Best Public High Schools in Indianapolis Area.
Cascade Senior High School
Mill Creek Community School Corporation, IN,
9-12,
184 Niche users give it an average review of 3.5 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says Overall, attending Cascade High School has been a very positive experience. The student life and involvement has been wonderful and the atmosphere of the school is very positive. I would like to see....
Read 184 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A minus,
Students: 513,
Student-Teacher Ratio: 17 to 1,
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#19 Best Public High Schools in Indianapolis Area.
Triton Central High School
Northwestern Consolidated School Corporation, IN,
9-12,
164 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says Triton Central High school is a wonderful community based school in Fairland, Indiana. It is small, and the learning environment is very personal and beneficial..
Read 164 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B+,
Students: 457,
Student-Teacher Ratio: 17 to 1,
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#20 Best Public High Schools in Indianapolis Area.
Lawrence North High School
Blue checkmark.
Metropolitan School District of Lawrence Township, IN,
9-12,
665 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says The fact that it was under constraction for the whole time I was there and still is, was definitively the worst part but great teachers, staff, very cordial, very kind, very helpfull..
Read 665 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B+,
Students: 2,861,
Student-Teacher Ratio: 20 to 1,
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Alum: One of the best parts about Pike is its incredible diversity—it's a melting pot of cultures and backgrounds, making the environment rich and inclusive. This diversity has broadened my horizons and taught me so much. Pike offers a wide range of opportunities, from sports teams to student council and community service, where I've developed leadership skills and lasting friendships. However, Pike also has its issues. It often prioritizes appearances over real change. There's a lot of talk about improvements, but little action follows. Student and staff ideas for change often go unheard or ignored, creating frustration. I believe Pike should focus more on genuine action and listen actively to its community. Creating better channels for communication and a more supportive environment would ensure every voice is heard and needs are met. I hope future students benefit from a more responsive and proactive school environment.... Read 1,015 reviews
#21 Best Public High Schools in Indianapolis Area.
Pike High School
Blue checkmark.
Metropolitan School District of Pike Township, IN,
9-12,
1015 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says One of the best parts about Pike is its incredible diversity—it's a melting pot of cultures and backgrounds, making the environment rich and inclusive. This diversity has broadened my horizons and...However, Pike also has its issues. It often prioritizes appearances over real change. There's a lot of talk about improvements, but little action follows. Student and staff ideas for change often go....
Read 1015 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B+,
Students: 3,286,
Student-Teacher Ratio: 16 to 1,
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#22 Best Public High Schools in Indianapolis Area.
Ben Davis Ninth Grade Center
Metropolitan School District of Wayne Township, IN,
9,
54 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says Overall Ben Davis 9th grade center is a pretty good school. It offers things that other schools don't..
Read 54 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B+,
Students: 1,307,
Student-Teacher Ratio: 17 to 1,
View nearby homes
Review your school
Junior: So far, the past 3 years that I've attended Southport have been great, at least socially. I've made great friends and have been able to break out of my shell a little. However, in terms of academics, I've struggled a bit. The teachers here are some of the greatest people you'd ever meet, but that doesn't mean that they make great teachers. I wish to see some more resources to help students who struggle in certain subjects. We have IPASS and math labs, but that doesn't always work since there may be more than one subject that a student struggles with and IPASS allows a student to only visit one teacher. Math labs are after school and most students do a club or a sport, many others work making it difficult to be able to receive the help they need. If the school were to either switch up a few of these resources or install new ones, they'd have a better chance of making sure that their students can succeed.... Read 370 reviews
#23 Best Public High Schools in Indianapolis Area.
Southport High School
Perry Township Schools, IN,
9-12,
370 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says So far, the past 3 years that I've attended Southport have been great, at least socially. I've made great friends and have been able to break out of my shell a little. However, in terms of academics,....
Read 370 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B+,
Students: 2,355,
Student-Teacher Ratio: 18 to 1,
View nearby homes
Senior: I came to the United States in nov 2022. WCHS was my first school in this country. I was scared and nervous thinking if i'll be able to adjust in this different environment or not. I was not fluent in english and because of that i was being embarrassed to talk to anyone . But the teachers and the students never looked down upon me. They always encouraged me and helped me to understand and do assignments in the best way. The fear i had in the beginning of the year finally came to an end with the help of my teachers and classmates. I am grateful to be a part of WCHS high school.... Read 326 reviews
#24 Best Public High Schools in Indianapolis Area.
Whiteland Community High School
Clark-Pleasant Community School Corporation, IN,
9-12,
326 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says I came to the United States in nov 2022. WCHS was my first school in this country. I was scared and nervous thinking if i'll be able to adjust in this different environment or not. I was not fluent....
Read 326 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B+,
Students: 1,879,
Student-Teacher Ratio: 17 to 1,
View nearby homes
#25 Best Public High Schools in Indianapolis Area.
Lebanon Senior High School
Lebanon Community School Corporation, IN,
9-12,
282 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says Lebanon Senior High School has fostered an environment that has allowed me to grow not only as a person but as a student. From loud Friday night games to early morning DECA meeting LHS has allowed me....
Read 282 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B+,
Students: 1,027,
Student-Teacher Ratio: 16 to 1,
View nearby homes
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6-12
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2024 Best Public High Schools in the Indianapolis Area

Carmel High School

Carmel High School

Zionsville Community High School

Zionsville Community High School

Herron High School

Herron High School

Westfield High School

Westfield High School

Fishers High School

Fishers High School

Brownsburg High School

Brownsburg High School

Speedway Senior High School

Speedway Senior High School

Hamilton Southeastern High School

Hamilton Southeastern High School

Avon High School

Avon High School

Plainfield High School

Plainfield High School

Ben Davis University High School

Ben Davis University High School

Center Grove High School

Center Grove High School

North Central High School

North Central High School

Noblesville High School

Noblesville High School

Herron-Riverside High School

Herron-Riverside High School

Franklin Central High School

Franklin Central High School

Perry Meridian High School

Perry Meridian High School

Cascade Senior High School

Cascade Senior High School

Triton Central High School

Triton Central High School

Lawrence North High School

Lawrence North High School

Pike High School

Pike High School

Ben Davis Ninth Grade Center

Ben Davis Ninth Grade Center

Southport High School

Southport High School

Whiteland Community High School

Whiteland Community High School

Lebanon Senior High School

Lebanon Senior High School

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