Townsend Harris High School
General Information
About (Overview)
Townsend Harris High School is a prestigious public high school located in Flushing, Queens, New York. Established in 1904, it has evolved into one of the city’s most selective and academically rigorous institutions. Originally an all-boys school, Townsend Harris now serves a diverse student body, offering a comprehensive liberal arts education with a strong emphasis on college preparation.
The school’s mission is to foster intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and a commitment to civic responsibility among its students. With a rich history and a commitment to excellence, Townsend Harris continues to be a beacon of educational achievement in New York City.
Contact Information
- Address: 149-11 Melbourne Avenue, Flushing, NY 11367
- Phone: (718) 575-5580
- Fax: (718) 575-1366
- Website: www.thhs.qc.edu
School Facts
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1904 |
| Motto | “Open the doors to all…” |
| Type | Public High School |
| Grades | 9–12 |
| Enrollment | Approximately 1,300 students |
| School Colors | Red and Black |
| Mascot | The Hawk |
Townsend Harris High School Rankings
| Ranking Organization | National Rank | State Rank | City Rank |
|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. News & World Report | 33 | 1 | 1 |
| Newsweek | 366 | N/A | N/A |
| Niche | 4 | 4 | 7 |
Townsend Harris High School Academics
Townsend Harris High School Faculties / Departments
- English Language Arts
- Mathematics
- Science
- Social Studies
- Foreign Languages
- Physical Education
- Visual and Performing Arts
- Technology
- Special Education
- Guidance and Counseling
Townsend Harris High School Courses and Programs / Majors
- Advanced Placement (AP) Courses in various subjects
- Honors Courses
- College Now Program (in partnership with Queens College)
- STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) Programs
- Humanities and Social Sciences Programs
- Visual and Performing Arts Programs
- Foreign Language Programs (including Spanish, French, Latin)
- Physical Education and Health Education
Online Learning
Townsend Harris High School offers a blended learning environment, incorporating digital resources and online platforms to enhance traditional classroom instruction. While the primary mode of instruction is in-person, the school utilizes online tools for assignments, assessments, and supplementary learning materials to support student engagement and academic success.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Average Score |
|---|---|
| SAT | 1410 |
| ACT | 32 |
Retention and Graduation Rates
Townsend Harris High School boasts a high graduation rate, with approximately 99% of students graduating within four years. The school’s rigorous academic programs and supportive environment contribute to its strong retention and graduation outcomes.
Townsend Harris High School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Admission to Townsend Harris High School is highly competitive. The school utilizes a screened admissions process, considering factors such as middle school grades, standardized test scores, and attendance records. While specific GPA and test score ranges can vary each year, successful applicants typically demonstrate strong academic performance and a commitment to excellence.
Townsend Harris High School Acceptance Rate
| Year | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| 2024 | Approximately 2.7% |
Townsend Harris High School Application Requirements
Prospective students must submit an application through the NYC Department of Education’s MySchools platform. The application includes academic records, standardized test scores, and attendance information. Additionally, applicants are required to complete a short video and an essay as part of the application process.
Application Process
- Submit an application via MySchools.
- Provide required academic records and standardized test scores.
- Complete the short video and essay components.
- Await placement results through the NYC Department of Education.
Townsend Harris High School Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | Varies annually |
| Placement Notification | Varies annually |
Essay Prompt
Applicants are required to write an essay as part of the application process. The essay prompt typically asks students to reflect on their academic interests, personal experiences, and reasons for wanting to attend Townsend Harris High School.
Townsend Harris High School Scholarships
As a public high school, Townsend Harris does not offer traditional scholarships. However, students have access to various college preparation programs and resources to support their post-secondary education goals.
Townsend Harris High School Tuition and Fees
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition | $0 |
| Fees | Varies |
Townsend Harris High School Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics (Gender, Age, Race/Ethnicity)
- Gender: Approximately 59% Female, 41% Male
- Age: Students are typically aged 14–18
- Race/Ethnicity:
- Asian: 57%
- White: 16.4%
- Hispanic: 15.1%
- African American: 5.7%
- Multiracial: 3.6%
- Pacific Islander: 1.2%
- Native American: 0.9%
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
Approximately 60% of students at Townsend Harris High School come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. The school provides support services for students with disabilities, ensuring an inclusive learning environment for all.
Student Body
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Total Enrollment | ~1,300 |
| International Students | 0 |
University Diversity
Townsend Harris High School is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment. The student body represents a wide range of cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds, enriching the learning experience for all students. The school’s diversity initiatives promote understanding, respect, and collaboration among students, preparing them for success in a global society.
Average Earnings
While specific data on alumni earnings is not publicly available, graduates of Townsend Harris High School have a strong track record of acceptance into prestigious colleges and universities. The school’s rigorous academic programs and college preparation resources equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in higher education and beyond.
Townsend Harris High School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
Townsend Harris High School employs a dedicated team of educators and support staff committed to student success. The faculty includes subject-area specialists, guidance counselors, special education professionals, and administrative personnel, all working collaboratively to create a supportive and challenging learning environment.
Faculty Profiles (Expertise, Achievements)
Faculty members at Townsend Harris High School are highly qualified, with many holding advanced degrees in their respective fields. Teachers are recognized for their commitment to excellence and have received various accolades for their contributions to education. The school’s faculty continually engage in professional development to stay current with educational best practices.
Townsend Harris High School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
Townsend Harris High School is located on a single campus in Flushing, Queens. The school does not offer on-campus housing; students commute from various neighborhoods across New York City. The campus features modern classrooms, science laboratories, art studios, and athletic facilities to support a well-rounded educational experience.
Transportation
The school is accessible via several public transportation options. Nearby subway lines include the E and F trains, and multiple MTA bus routes serve the area. Students utilize these public transit options to commute to and from school, with many choosing the subway for its convenience and efficiency.