U.S. News and World Report has published its list of the best schools in the United States and each state individually. In Maine, Boothbay Region High School comes in at number nine, which earns the school a silver medal.

“It is a testament to our teachers and their dedication,” CSD School Committee Chairman Larry Colcord said.

The ranking system is based on several factors: the student to teacher ratio; college readiness index (based on AP exam participation rates and percentages of students passing); and test scores.

At BRHS, the student to teacher ratio is 9:1 and a 32.6 on the College Readiness Index (the top possible score is 100, which only 14 schools in the nation received). At BRHS, the AP participation rate is 39 percent.

“This is a direct reflection of (the teachers’) hard work and dedication to our students. Being an educator is an incredibly arduous job; you folks do it with class, humility and an unwavering commitment to our school. Take a moment and pat yourself on the back. Well done,” said BRHS Principal Dan Welch in a May 12 email to staff.

Superintendent Eileen King responded a few minutes later with: “Congratulations to all! Our kids continue to be the winners!”

The top 10 Maine schools, in order, are Yarmouth High School, Falmouth High School, Cape Elizabeth High School, Wells High School, Brewer High School, Camden Hills Regional High School, York High School, Greely High School, Boothbay Region High School and Bangor High School.

For more information or to see the lists of national and state schools, visit www.usnews.com/education/best-high-schools.