The Big Picture

Connecticut prioritizes education at every level, investing in students from early learning through higher ed and it shows in its renowned institutions and forward-thinking policies.

• #2 Best Public School System in the U.S.

• #3 Most Educated State

• Top 10 State for Families

• Connecticut students have the highest median ACT score of 25.5.

• Connecticut students have the third-highest reading test scores nationwide.

• The state budget includes a $435 million increase in K-12 education funding.

Public Schools

Connecticut’s public grade schools really make the grade. Recognized for their diverse and robust educational offerings, they’re designed to cater to a wide range of student interests and needs giving students and families an array of options for K–12 education.

• Connecticut boasts a student-teacher ratio of approximately 12:1, better than the national average of 16:1.

• 92% of public-school funding comes from state and local sources, with a strong emphasis on equity and support for students with special needs.

• In 2024, the General Assembly passed landmark legislation to fund all public-school students based on their individual learning needs.

• Interdistrict Magnet Schools (PK3–12) Students from multiple districts engage in high-quality, themed learning. Many offer college credit opportunities through higher ed partnerships and Early College Experience programs.

• The Open Choice Program (PK4–12) Designed to foster diversity and inclusion, this program lets students from urban, suburban, and rural areas attend schools in nearby districts, including Hartford, Bridgeport, and New Haven.

• Charter Schools (PK3–12) Independently run and driven by innovative learning methods, these schools empower student success with guidance from teachers, parents, and community leaders.

• Connecticut Technical Education and Career System (CTECS) (9–12) CTECS are state-run high schools where students build trade and tech skills while earning a diploma preparing them for jobs, apprenticeships, or college.

• Agricultural Science and Technology Education (ASTE) Centers (9–12) Interested in agriculture? ASTE programs prepare high school students for college and careers in agricultural science and technology fields with many offering college credit opportunities.

Preparatory Boarding Schools

Connecticut’s world-renowned boarding schools get an A+. Famous for their academic excellence, historic campuses, and strong college preparatory programs, these schools attract students from around the world. Here’s a short list, but know that this only scratches the surface.

• Choate Rosemary Hall (9–12) A nationally renowned school where driven students thrive in cutting-edge programs, from science and innovation to the performing arts, preparing them for top-tier colleges and leadership roles.

• The Hotchkiss School (9–12) High-achieving and globally focused, Hotchkiss challenges students to think big, aim high, and lead with purpose on campus and beyond. 

• The Taft School (9–12) At Taft, students grow into thoughtful, well-rounded leaders through rigorous academics, vibrant arts, and a deep culture of service.

• Loomis Chaffee School (9–12) This values-driven campus encourages students to stretch their thinking, explore the world, and become the kind of change-makers colleges love.

• Miss Porter’s School (9–12) A historic all-girls school, Miss Porter’s blends academic rigor with a strong sense of sisterhood, empowering young women to become bold, ethical leaders in a global community.

• Kent School (9–12) Nestled on a scenic riverside campus, Kent blends strong academics with standout athletics and real-world learning that prepares students for life.

• Westminster School (9–12) Westminster is where driven students discover what they’re made of—through small classes, big ideas, and a close community that pushes them to excel.