High Schools in Gridley Unified

The Gridley Unified school district operates two high schools for grades 9-12: the comprehensive Gridley High and the smaller, alternative Esperanza High (Continuation), serving distinct student needs within the community.

Gridley High is a standout, high-performing school consistently ranking in the top 20% of California schools, with a 94.5% graduation rate and particularly strong English scores that far exceed state averages. In contrast, Esperanza High (Continuation) serves a very small group of at-risk students with a focus on helping them graduate, achieving a 90.9% graduation rate for its specialized population despite very low standardized test scores.

Key differences include much higher per-student spending and a lower student-teacher ratio at Esperanza High (Continuation), reflecting the intensive support needed for its students, who also face a significant chronic absenteeism challenge. For most families, Gridley High offers strong, consistent academic results, while Esperanza High provides a vital alternative pathway to a diploma for students struggling in a traditional setting.