Beyond required classes in the core academic areas (math, science, social studies, and English), MHS offers a wide variety of elective courses including an honors and Advanced Placement (AP) program, world languages (French, German, and Spanish), physical education, professional/technical education, music, art, and theatre.

According to the school's website, the co-curricular programs (GHQ, drama, music, debate, DECA, leadership, journalism, and Model U.N.) attract the participation of over 700 students each year.

The nationally known Mead High School Jazz Ensemble has participated and placed in competitions around the United States.

They were selected as one of the top 15 high school jazz bands in the nation and were invited to perform at Lincoln Center as part of the 2004 and 2007 Essentially Ellington festivals.

The 2021 volume received the nations top honors winning a Pacemaker, Gold Crown and Best of Show award at the annual NSPA-JEA Spring Conference in Los Angeles, CA.