Not surprisingly, considering that Ithaca is such a leading educational and cultural center, the Community sets high standards for its public schools. The Ithaca City School District includes seven elementary schools, two middle schools, and one senior high school. There is also a nontraditional alternative school.
With close ties to Cornell University and Ithaca College, Ithaca's school staff, teachers and students are immersed in a broad, sophisticated and exciting world. As a percentage of the graduating class, Ithaca High School's semifinalists in the National Merit Scholarship Competition continue to exceed the U. S. average. Of Ithaca High School's graduates, typically 25-30% complete honors and Advanced Placement courses, over 85% pursue post-secondary education and over 14% enter the nation's most highly-selective colleges.
The Community's pride in, and commitment to, the creative and performing arts is further reflected in the quality of related educational opportunities within the school system. Ithaca High School music groups participate regularly in state and national music competitions, frequently earning first-place awards. The middle schools also provide strong performing arts opportunities, their combined orchestra having been honored by the Creative Arts Workshop Showcase. The National Endowment for the Arts has recognized the School District with an award for original operas written, produced and performed by students from the middle schools.