St. Charles County continues to demonstrate why the quality of our schools is one of the region’s greatest assets.

Ten St. Charles County high schools have been ranked among the Top 50 high schools in Missouri in the recently released U.S. News & World Report Best High Schools rankings.

Leading the way are four local high schools ranked among Missouri’s Top 20 — with all four placing between No. 10 and No. 15:

• Francis Howell High School — No. 10
• Fort Zumwalt South High School — No. 12
• Francis Howell Central High School — No. 13
• Fort Zumwalt West High School — No. 15

Six additional St. Charles County high schools earned a place among Missouri’s Top 50:

• Liberty High School — No. 21
• Fort Zumwalt North High School — No. 34
• Francis Howell North High School — No. 35
• Timberland High School — No. 36
• Fort Zumwalt East High School — No. 44
• North Point High School — No. 45

Together, the rankings demonstrate the depth of educational excellence found throughout St. Charles County, with 10 local high schools among the state’s Top 50 and four among the Top 20.

View the complete U.S. News & World Report Best High Schools rankings for Missouri to see how schools across the state performed.

Strong Schools Strengthen Our Economy

For the St. Charles Regional Chamber, these rankings represent more than academic achievement. Strong schools are an important part of a strong economy and one of St. Charles County’s greatest competitive advantages.

“Having 10 St. Charles County high schools ranked among Missouri’s Top 50 — including four in the Top 20 — is an outstanding accomplishment for our community,” said Scott Tate, President & CEO of the St. Charles Regional Chamber. “The quality of our schools is one of the advantages we have when competing for businesses, investment and talent. Great schools help employers attract and retain talented people, encourage families to put down roots here and prepare the next generation of our workforce.”

Quality schools play an increasingly important role in economic development. Businesses need access to a talented workforce, while employees considering where to live and build their careers look closely at the quality of schools and the opportunities available to their families.

“Our schools are preparing the employees, entrepreneurs and community leaders of tomorrow while also helping make St. Charles County a place where today’s workforce wants to live and raise a family,” Tate added. “That connection between education, workforce and economic development is critical to the continued prosperity of our region.”

As communities across the country compete for people as much as they compete for businesses and investment, quality of place will continue to grow in importance. Strong schools, career opportunities, thriving communities and a high quality of life all contribute to St. Charles County’s ability to compete for talent and investment.

The St. Charles Regional Chamber congratulates the students, educators, administrators, school boards and families whose commitment to educational excellence continues to strengthen St. Charles County and our regional economy.