South Huntington Named Among Top 10 School Districts In Suffolk County

SOUTH HUNTINGTON, N.Y. — South Huntington School District has once again been ranked among the top 10 school districts in Suffolk County, according to Niche.com's 2026 Best Schools report.

South Huntington placed No. 10 among 69 districts countywide, eaming an overall grade of A. The district also received A-level grades in key categories such as college prep, diversity, teachers, and sports. Serving 5,600 students across seven schools, the district continues to be recognized for its academic excellence and inclusive environment.

Walt Whitman High School, the district's flagship, also retained its position among Suffolk's best public high schools, ranking No. 8. The school earned an overall grade of A for its strong academics, college preparation, diversity, sports, and extracurricular offerings.

"All corners of our community and the school district should be proud that we're a top 10 district," said Superintendent Dr. Vito D'Elia. "It's not just the teachers and administrators—it's everybody, parents included. Whether it's academics or social and emotional learning, we're working together, and the bottom line is always how we can help our students excel."

Statewide, South Huntington ranked No. 56 among more than 600 districts in New York. Both the district and Walt Whitman High School received top marks for diversity, earning A grades. Within Suffolk County, the district ranked No. 5 for diversity, and Walt Whitman placed No. 8.

"I think we are a microcosm of American society," Principal Dr. John Murphy said. "We have many different languages spoken here, and our students are bound together by their Wildcat pride and sense of community. Whether it's increased AP enrollment, higher testing scores, or our school culture, this ranking shows that all students can achieve when they're properly supported."

Niche.com compiles annual rankings of schools and colleges nationwide using data from the U.S. Department of Education and millions of reviews from students, parents, and teachers. Schools are graded in categories including academics, administration, teachers, diversity, college prep, sports, clubs and activities, facilities, and food.

Walt Whitman High School offers more than 30 Advanced Placement courses, 29 college credit classes, and numerous honors, arts, and life skills programs. Students also have access to BOCES, Future Teachers, and College and Career Readiness programs, partnering with local businesses in medicine, technology, and the arts. The school recently reinstated a nine-period day to give students more flexibility to explore electives. Walt Whitman also boasts more than 75 student clubs and organizations, along with over 30 sports teams.