Delaware’s public education system is impressively diverse and competitive, making school district choice a top priority for families in 2025. From highly rated districts in New Castle County to coastal and rural offerings in Kent and Sussex, options abound. Areas like Appoquinimink and Red Clay consistently top state rankings for graduation rates, test scores, and college readiness. Meanwhile, districts such as Cape Henlopen and Caesar Rodney stand out for unique programs like Chinese immersion and STEM-focused initiatives. Charter institutions like the Charter School of Wilmington and Cab Calloway School of the Arts offer specialized pathways for academically driven students. Choosing the right district means balancing academic performance with lifestyle and community priorities. In the article that follows, we’ll explore which school districts in Delaware offer the best opportunities for families, plus how to find the right fit for your child.

Top Public School Districts

Delaware offers a range of high-performing school districts that balance academic excellence, community engagement, and specialized programs. Leading the pack:

• Appoquinimink School District (New Castle County) consistently earns top marks. With a 95% graduation rate and strong SAT/ACT performance (average SAT score of ~1230, ACT ~27), it features modern facilities, advanced placement (AP) offerings, and diverse programming.

• Cape Henlopen School District (Sussex County) is renowned for its well-rounded education—balancing academics, arts, and athletics, with standout STEM initiatives and a beautiful coastal setting.

• Red Clay Consolidated School District (New Castle County), the state’s largest district, provides specialized schools, magnet programs, and strong college readiness emphasis.

• Brandywine School District (Wilmington area) offers IB (International Baccalaureate) programs at select schools and strong career and technical education initiatives .

• Caesar Rodney School District (Kent County) shines with its Chinese immersion program, focus on performing arts, sports, and personalized learning strategies.

These districts regularly appear in compiled rankings—such as AllInfoHome’s “Top 6 Best School Districts” and WJBR’s “Best School Districts in Delaware” list, where Appoquinimink and Cape Henlopen top the rankings.

High-Performing Schools & Special Programs

Beyond district-wide quality, several individual schools stand out:

• The Charter School of Wilmington is often rated the top public high school in the state, known for exceptional STEM focus, AP course participation, and national recognition—including a recent Samsung STEM competition win.

• Cab Calloway School of the Arts (Wilmington) blends rigorous academics with arts education and is consistently recognized for its performance and prestige.

• Newark Charter School (K–12) consistently ranks at the top in the state for academics, test scores, and community engagement; its high school often ranks #2 statewide.

• Sussex Academy in Georgetown is the only International Baccalaureate (IB) school in Sussex County and is acclaimed for critical thinking, personalized attention, and college readiness.

Elementary and middle schools also earn recognition:

• Newark Charter Elementary, Olive B. Loss Elementary (Bear), North Star Elementary (Hockessin), and Bunker Hill Elementary (Middletown) are lauded for academic innovation, inclusive learning, and specialized programs.

• Middle schools such as Brandywine Springs (with IB Middle Years), Beacon Middle School (Lewes), and Alfred G. Waters Middle School (Middletown) stand out for project-based learning and community connections.

Real-World Feedback from Parents

Online forums offer additional context:

“Cape is generally regarded as one of the top school districts in the state… excellent building… resources for every kid whether they’re… gifted.”
— A parent referencing Rehoboth elementary within Cape Henlopen.

“Brandywine elementary schools are pretty good… Carrcroft is a very good elementary school.”
— Posted by a Wilmington parent emphasizing the strength of Brandywine.

“CR is the best public district in Southern Delaware… probably the second-best public district in the state after Appoquinimink.”
— Reflecting community respect for Caesar Rodney in Kent County.

What This Means for Families

1. Choose Education Based on Your Priorities

Appoquinimink and Red Clay offer academic depth and prep for university. Cape Henlopen appeals with its balanced, coastal lifestyle and unique STEM and arts options. Caesar Rodney excels in immersion and personalization.

2. Explore Specialized Programs

Districts like Brandywine and Red Clay have strong IB and magnet offerings. Charter schools like Charter School of Wilmington, Cab Calloway, and Newark Charter add competitive options—regardless of residence, thanks to Delaware’s School Choice policy.

3. Consider Location and Culture

Many families choose based on geography and community vibe. The regional performance variations—Sussex vs. New Castle County, rural vs. urban—are important to weigh.

4. Visit Schools Before Deciding

Numbers and awards paint a picture, but the best match depends on personal fit. Touring schools, talking to parents, and evaluating extracurricular options remain vital steps.

Final Thoughts

Delaware combines academic excellence with variety—high-performing districts, specialized schools, and strong choice options give families flexibility and quality. Whether you’re drawn to top-tier programs in New Castle County or immersive experiences in Kent and Sussex, there’s a public or charter school that aligns with your priorities. To find the best fit, balance performance data with local insights—and let your child’s needs guide the way.