High Schools in San Diego Unified

San Diego Unified serves approximately 24,000 high school students across 25 schools, which range from top-ranked state performers to those facing significant challenges, with a district-wide graduation rate of 92.5% that exceeds the state average.

For parents, standout high-performing schools include Scripps Ranch High (ranked in the 98th percentile), Mission Bay High (93rd percentile), and University City High (90th percentile), all boasting strong test scores and graduation rates above 98%. In contrast, schools like Garfield High and Twain High struggle with very low graduation rates and high chronic absenteeism, indicating a wide performance gap within the San Diego Unified district.

Interesting models of success exist, such as the four small, themed schools at the Kearny complex and East Village Middle College High, which achieve excellent results despite serving many students from lower-income families. The data shows mathematics is a district-wide challenge, and high per-student spending at some schools does not guarantee better outcomes, suggesting how resources are used is critical.