JERSEY CITY, NJ – County Prep High School, part of Hudson County Schools of Technology (HCST) has been named the #4 Niche Standout High School in New Jersey in Niche's 2027 rankings. It also holds the #1 spot among New Jersey's Most Diverse Public High Schools for the third year in a row.

The Niche Standout Schools list recognizes public schools that are making a difference in their communities. Only schools where at least half of students are economically disadvantaged and that earn a Niche Overall Grade of B or higher are eligible. The ranking looks at school diversity, graduation rates and state test scores for economically disadvantaged and minority students, and the quality of the colleges students consider. County Prep ranked fourth of 32 schools in New Jersey and 46th of 2,864 schools nationwide.

County Prep was also ranked #1 of 446 Most Diverse Public High Schools in New Jersey and #1 in Hudson County. That ranking draws on U.S. Department of Education diversity data along with student and parent reviews of the school's ethnic, economic, and cultural diversity. The school earned an Overall Niche Grade of A. Niche also ranks County Prep among the top 40 public high schools in New Jersey.

"County Prep shows what is possible when students from every background learn side by side and are given real opportunities to succeed," said HCST Superintendent Thomas Macagnano. "Being named one of New Jersey's standout schools, and the most diverse public high school in the state for the third straight year, reflects the hard work of our students, our teachers, and our families. We are proud of this recognition, and even prouder of the diverse community behind it."

"Number one in diversity and number four among New Jersey's standout schools. Those numbers reflect the heart, dedication and commitment of our entire school community," said Barbara Mendolla, Principal of County Prep High School. "Our students bring the world into our classrooms every day, and our teachers, administrators, and guidance counselors make sure every one of them feels welcomed, supported, and ready to succeed."

"In Telecommunications, we learn that every story is better when you hear it from more than one point of view, and that's exactly what County Prep gives us," said Madeline Santiago, a Senior in the Telecommunications program at County Prep. "My classmates come from different towns, cultures, and backgrounds, and working alongside them has changed the way I see the world and the kind of stories I want to tell. Being named the most diverse public high school in New Jersey makes me so proud to be part of this community."

County Prep High School is located at the Earl W. Byrd Campus at 525 Montgomery Street in Jersey City. It offers career-focused majors alongside a full academic program that includes Advanced Placement courses.

About Hudson County Schools of Technology: Hudson County Schools of Technology is an innovative, collaborative, and diverse community that empowers lifelong learning by educating students for careers. Through a commitment to academic excellence, technical proficiency, and social-emotional development, HCST prepares students to meet the demands of a changing world.