Welcome to Central High School

Home of the Trojans!

Located at the base of Old Mission Peninsula, Traverse City Central High School is one of three high schools in the Traverse City Area Public Schools (TCAPS) district.

Central High School offers many exciting classroom opportunities that translate into real world skills. Robotics, yearbook, school newspaper, broadcasting, marketing, and many more electives are offered to students; not to mention the countless art and music options available. With their close proximity to the local college, dual enrollment is a viable option for all students meeting the necessary requirements. Early College and Advanced Placement classes are also offered.

As a larger high school, Central High School utilizes a Small Learning Communities (SLCs) approach that transforms the school into smaller, close-knit academies where students can find their voice, experience increased personalization, and where educational standards are enhanced through teacher collaboration. Through SLCs, students develop close, personal relationships with both peers and educators alike. The SLC model allows students to pursue their interests and passions in an academic environment that establishes the interconnectedness and importance of a child’s educational experience. Learn more about SLCs and the academy structure at Central High School.

TC Central Among the Best High Schools in the Nation

Central High School ranked #64 in the state

Traverse City Central High School (#64)  has again been recognized among the “Best High Schools” by U.S. News and World Report.

“The U.S. News and World Report rankings show the great work our high school staff, students, and administrators are doing every day. To be ranked among the top high schools in our state, and in the high percentiles in the nation, says so much about the educational services and value we provide to our community,” said Dr. John VanWagoner, superintendent of Traverse City Area Public Schools. “A student’s academic career starts early. The high quality learning environment in our elementary and middle schools are commendable and help to form the building blocks that support these collective achievements.”

The U.S. News and World Report “Best High Schools” rankings identify the country's top-performing public high schools. The goal of the rankings is to provide a clear, unbiased picture of how well public schools serve all of their students – from the highest to lowest achieving – in preparing them to demonstrate proficiency in basic skills as well as readiness for college-level work. Nearly 18,000 schools across the country were reviewed for the 2021 ranking. To learn more about the rankings, visit: https://www.usnews.com/education/best-high-schools

Our Mission

To be a nurturing community of learners, ensuring that all young adults become responsible, productive, self-expressive individuals able to achieve their full potential through a safe, learner-centered cooperative partnership that celebrates diversity, creativity, and excellence.