Niche ranks James Clemens, Bob Jones in state’s Top 10

MADISON – ‘Consistency’ is a hallmark for Madison City Schools, and the district once again has shown consistent success . . . in this instance with Niche.

In Niche’s research for Alabama public high schools, James Clemens and Bob Jones retained top-ranking spots in the latest Niche rankings. James Clemens claimed sixth place, and Bob Jones reached eighth place.

The Niche firm is a market leader in connecting colleges and schools with students and families. Niche bases its findings on in-depth profiles of every school and college in America with more than 140 million reviews and ratings.

Niche bases its annual evaluations on state test scores, college readiness, graduation rates, SAT/ACT scores, teacher quality, public school ratings, district ratings, along with parents’ and students’ opinions.

“James Clemens and Bob Jones actually placed second and fourth, respectively, if you discount magnet-type schools that can be more selective in their student populations,” MCS Public Relations Manager John S. Peck said.

A junior commented on James Clemens’ environment: “Even though James Clemens is a very large school with almost 2,000 students, the teachers and staff find a way to make you feel special. Many opportunities are available to students with varied interests. One major opportunity is related to NASA, Marshall Space Flight Center and aerospace companies with headquarters nearby. Students can attend Space Camp at a reduced rate. Many aerospace companies offer job shadowing and internships for high school students.”

A Bob Jones parent offered these thoughts: “Bob Jones is a great school. Lots to offer from class options, athletics, clubs and social avenues. Courses are rigorous (in) the honors/pre-advanced placement/advanced placement route, (offering) great benefit entering into college. My encouragement is to take advantage of smaller environments to plug in and be known. Our family has been very encouraged and blessed by having our children (in a) football team with amazing coaches and teammates. Highly recommend.”

For middle schools, the only campuses in the Tennessee Valley in the Top 25 were in Madison City Schools. Discovery Middle School earned fifth place, and Liberty Middle Schools claimed eighth place in the standings.

A Discovery parent told Niche, “Excellent! I’ve had two children complete middle school at DMS in recent years. I can definitely say that this school has something for everyone! Honors courses, various electives, sports and any type of club imaginable. Invested teachers, administrators and coaches take the time to know each child and family – really setting this school apart.”

Following suit with their older counterparts, elementary students in Madison also earned outstanding ratings: Horizon, fourth place; Heritage, tenth; Columbia, 16th; Mill Creek, 17th; and Madison Elementary, 23rd.

For more information, visit niche.com or Facebook/Madison City Schools.