[2] The assumed course of study follows the ADE Smart Core curriculum, which requires students complete at least 22 units prior to graduation.

Academy-based JHS splits students into one of three academies: Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), Health and Human Services (HHS) or Business, Communication Arts and Law (BCAL).

[citation needed] JHS regularly has a high percentage of its students that attend post secondary institutions, with over 65 percent of the 2010 senior class receiving scholarships totaling over $7.8 million.

They were also limited on the number of windows in the structure due to the laws on public school buildings in place at the time.

JHS benefited from a complete overhaul of its current Don Riggs Hurricane Gym and a newly constructed Performing Arts Center intended to seat over 1000 people.

They play in the Arkansas High School Athletic Association, Class AAAAAA East Conference.

In 2008 the Hurricane saw a resurgence of sorts in football, going (8-2) in the regular season, thus receiving a second round home game in the AA Playoffs.

Most recently, JHS defeated AA East Conference rival Forrest City for the 2007 title at the Hot Springs Convention Center.

The Hurricane first fielded a team in 1989 and made it to their first (and as of 2008 only) state championship game in 2005, played in Baum Stadium at the University of Arkansas.

The Hurricane lost to former fellow AA East Conference member, Sylvan Hills High School.

Jonesboro High School's track and field teams have won multiple state and conference championships.

Jonesboro High School's tennis team has won several state championships in recent years.

Volleyball, golf, soccer, wrestling, cross country, bowling, swimming, and softball have also been successful for the Hurricane, as those teams have had several playoff appearances as well as conference and state championships.