Jericho School District was ranked 20th and Syosset 113th on Newsweek's list of the top public schools, which was released last week.

Public schools are ranked according to a ratio devised by Jay Mathews, which is the number of Advanced Placement, Intl. Baccalaureate and/or Cambridge tests taken by all students at a school in 2007 divided by the number of graduating seniors.

"We are pleased to be recognized by Newsweek as one of the top high schools in the country," said Jericho Superintendent of Schools Hank Grishman. "This ranking is one of many measures that reflects the comprehensive educational program that we strive to provide for our students. While we attempt to focus on the individual student growth and accomplishments, we are keenly aware of the importance that is placed on such rankings."

Syosset School District Superintendent Dr. Carole G. Hankin said, "Syosset Schools are high ranking because we offer an outstanding education comprised of solid curriculum, coupled with a focus on stimulating individual interests. Syosset School's have something for every child and place great emphasize on encouraging all students to take advantage of our wide variety of specialized activities. These opportunities number in over 113 teams utilized by more than 2200 students, over 100 clubs and many partnerships with world class art institutions. Our student's enthusiasm to learn is evident from their high national and state test scores and their motivation to excel is astonishing."