U.S. News has published detailed information on more than 20,500 public high schools, including school-specific data on enrollment, student ethnicity, location, school type and results of state assessments, as well as Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate tests. Using some of this data and a comprehensive methodology, schools were given a College Readiness Index score, with the top-scoring 5,900-plus schools receiving a gold, silver or bronze medal - and in the case of gold and silver schools, a national numerical ranking.

Dobyns-Bennett High School is ranked in the top ten (10) percent of all high schools nationally at #1,964 and #16 in the state of Tennessee, earning a silver medal.

"The U.S. News & World Report rankings confirm what we always strive to achieve at D-B... a high school experience that is exemplary and provides Kingsport families an educational environment that is among the best in America," said KCS Superintendent Dr. Jeff Moorhouse.  "While we don't specifically set out to seek such awards, it is always encouraging to see the hard work of our students recognized as being truly excellent.  We are proud of the leadership of D-B Principal Dr. Chris Hampton and his administrative team, as well as the dedication of the entire faculty and staff who are being recognized for their exceptional work."

Results of AP assessments factor into this national ranking. Approximately 775 Advanced Placement tests were administered to 432 D-B students in 2017. The number of seniors graduating from D-B in 2017 was 551.

Seventy-two (72) percent of Dobyns-Bennett High School students who completed an AP test scored at least a three (3) or above. An AP exam score ranging from a three (3) to a five (5) qualifies students for college credit in the subject area.