For the third consecutive year, all three high schools in Central Kitsap School District were named to the annual list of the country’s top-rated public high schools.

In Washington, only 33 high schools (of approximately 500) earned a spot on the list of America’s Most Challenging High Schools, a nationally recognized ranking of how well schools prepare students for college. Overall, nine percent of roughly 22,000 public high schools in the nation made the list, which is published by The Washington Post.

This year, Central Kitsap High School appeared for the twelfth time. Klahowya Secondary School was listed for the fifth time, and Olympic High School was listed for the third time. Statewide, CKHS currently ranks seventh, while KSS ranks 25th and OHS ranks 28th.

“We encourage all our high school students to challenge themselves by taking rigorous courses,” said Director of Secondary Teaching & Learning Franklyn MacKenzie. “The results of this list reflect our belief that when you set high expectations, students will rise to that level.”

The annual list of America’s Most Challenging High Schools is based on the “Challenge Index,” which measures high schools’ ability to challenge students. The formula divides the number of college-level (e.g., Advanced Placement) tests a school gives by the number of graduating seniors. The index is designed to identify schools that challenge students and are committed to preparing them for college.

With a Challenge Index of 3.177, CKHS ranks in the top two percent of public high schools in the nation. Klahowya’s index score is 1.630 and Olympic High School has an index score of 1.534.

The Washington Post may continue to fine-tune its data and list of top schools. As a result, specific rankings may change slightly.