September 27, 2023

(Hoover, AL) – The Hoover City Schools (HCS) District is proud to announce its achievement of being ranked as the fifth Best School District in Alabama by Niche, a leading and prominent school ranking and review website. This prestigious recognition highlights the dedication and excellence of HCS in providing high-quality education to its students. 

The ranking affirms that the District is at the forefront of providing exceptional educational opportunities and preparing students for a successful future. District leaders are incredibly proud of our students, teachers, administrators, and staff for their hard work. This exciting news comes on the heels of the District’s two high schools, Hoover and Spain Park, being named among the top 15 Best High Schools in Alabama by U.S. News & World Report.

Niche compiles its annual rankings based on a comprehensive evaluation of academic and student life data. This evaluation includes rigorous U.S. Department of Education data analysis, test scores, and college-related information. 

HCS Superintendent Dr. Kevin Maddox said, "We are excited that Hoover City Schools has been recognized by Niche as one of the top five districts in Alabama. This accomplishment is a tribute to the dedication and effort put forth by our students, teachers, and administrators throughout the district. Moving forward, Hoover City Schools will maintain high expectations and foster a climate of academic excellence.”

Niche evaluates school districts based on various factors, including academic performance, teacher quality, diversity, and parent and student reviews. HCS excelled in these categories, solidifying its position as one of the top school districts in the state. 

The 2022-2023 school year came with many academic successes for the District. Each school received a state grade of "A" for the first time. The District achieved the highest number of National Merit finalists and semi-finalists than ever before, as well as the highest graduation rate and the highest percentage of graduates with college and career-ready indicators. In addition, a national study conducted by Stanford and Harvard Universities recognized the District for overall positive academic outcomes in math and reading and substantial learning gains for students in poverty, black students, and Hispanic students.

HCS Chief Learning Officer Dr. Chris Robbins said, "This recognition as a top school district in the state is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our educators, administrators, and students. We are committed to providing an outstanding educational experience, and this ranking reflects our continuous efforts to excel in all aspects of education. While this ranking is phenomenal, District leaders will continue using student data and implementing strategies to improve academic growth and achievement for all students."

Hoover and Spain Park High Schools were in the top 15 Best Public High Schools in Alabama by Niche for 2024, with Hoover in the #13 spot and Spain Park ranked the tenth best high school. The District’s middle schools are celebrating a momentous achievement that underscores their commitment to academic excellence and student success. Niche ranked all three HCS middle schools – Berry, R.F. Bumpus, and Simmons Middle Schools – among the 2024 top ten Best Public Middle Schools in the state. 

Niche’s 2024 ranking for Best Public Elementary Schools puts two HCS elementary schools in the top ten in the state. Brock's Gap Intermediate School is number three, and Deer Valley Elementary School is in the sixth spot. Another significant achievement is at Rocky Ridge Elementary School, where it jumped from the #33 ranking by Niche to #13.

Principal Dr. Dil Uswatte said, “I am extremely proud to share that out of 721 elementary schools in Alabama, Rocky Ridge was ranked #13. This is a huge jump from last year when we were ranked #33. This places Rocky Ridge as one of the highest-ranked schools in our district. This kind of growth does not happen on its own. To say we have some of the best teachers on the planet is an understatement.”

HCS thanks the community for their unwavering support and commitment to making the District worthy of national attention. This achievement is a collective effort, and together, the district and the community will continue to strive for excellence in education.

Niche's rankings are highly regarded, as they provide valuable insights into the quality of education provided by school districts nationwide. The complete list of 2024 rankings, methodologies, and data sources can be found on Niche's website at https://www.niche.com/