Carmel Clay Schools Ranks in Top 1% of Districts Nationally in 2026 Niche.com Rankings

CARMEL, IN — Carmel Clay Schools is proud to announce its continued ascent as a national leader in public education, securing the #66 spot out of more than 10,000 school districts across the United States in the newly released 2026 Niche.com rankings. This achievement marks a slight jump from last year’s rank of #84, placing CCS firmly within the top 1% of school districts in the country.

Closer to home, Carmel Clay Schools maintains its standing as the #1 public school district in Hamilton County and the greater Indianapolis area, and is also recognized as the #2 public school district in Indiana. The district’s commitment to excellence is reflected across all 15 schools, each of which earned an A or A+. Notably, all three of the district’s middle schools were ranked within the top 10 in the state, and CCS was named the Best Place to Teach in Hamilton County.

Carmel High School continues to set a national standard. Ranked as the #1 Public High School in the Indianapolis area and #259 out of more than 20,000 high schools nationwide, the school remains a premier destination for academic achievement. Furthermore, Carmel High School’s rigorous curriculum has earned it the title of the 6th best high school in Indiana for STEM education, a ranking that includes both public and private schools.

“These rankings reflect the relentless dedication of our students, staff, and families who prioritize education every single day,” said Superintendent Dr. Oestreich. “While we define success through the individual growth of our students, we recognize that these rankings serve as a vital economic driver for our city. High-performing schools attract prospective families and businesses, ensuring that Carmel remains a vibrant, thriving community.”