U.S. News and World Report ranks schools based on state assessment performance and college-readiness; Eight RCS high schools rank in top 25% in Tennessee
August 19, 2026
By JAMES EVANS
Rutherford County Schools
Rutherford County is now officially home to the best high school in the nation, based on rankings released this week by U.S. News and World Report.
Central Magnet School, which has long been ranked among the top high schools in the United States, earned the top spot in the 2026-2027 rankings. The school had previously been ranked third, according to last year’s rankings, but has consistently placed among the best schools since its opening in 2010.
“We’re very proud to be the home of the best high school in the nation, and the employees, parents, and students of Central Magnet School should be commended for their long history of unmatched performance,” Director of Schools Dr. Jimmy Sullivan said. “This recognition also highlights the strength of public education in Rutherford County as a whole and the caliber of opportunities we provide for our students and families.”
Central Magnet School serves grades 6-12 and admission is open to any student in Rutherford County based on academic performance.
The U.S. News rankings use data from more than 27,000 public high schools in the United States. The schools are ranked on six factors based on their “performance on state assessments and how well they prepare students for college.”
“Being named the No. 1 school by U.S. News is such an achievement for Central and Rutherford County Schools,” said Dr. Clark Blair, who became principal of Central Magnet School in July. “We are honored to carry this torch for everyone who has ever walked the halls at Central. This recognition just confirms what our students and staff do each and every day. Central is such a unique place filled with students who love to learn in the classroom, compete in a variety of activities and sports, and build a future where they can make a difference in their community.”
Founding Principal Dr. John Ash, who recently left the school after being named the director of schools for Smith County, said he is proud of the school’s consistency and performance. He was on hand Wednesday at a pep rally at the school to celebrate the top ranking.
“The school is high achieving because of the work ethic of the teachers and the students,” said Ash, emphasizing the school’s accomplishments in academics, athletics, fine arts and other areas. “Everything they try, they’re good at, and we always expect the best at all times, which is why our school’s motto is ‘Always My Best.’ The kids epitomize that motto, and from what I’ve seen, they continue it on through college.”
The U.S. News announcement also includes state-level rankings for high schools. Eight Rutherford County high schools were in the top 25% of the 440 high schools in Tennessee. Those schools include Central (1), Blackman (56), Rockvale (61), Eagleville (73), Siegel (82), Stewarts Creek (86), Oakland (87), and the Rutherford County Virtual School (104).