Best High Schools in Zip Code 90034

This analysis covers two public high schools serving grades 9-12 in the 90034 zip code of Los Angeles, both part of the Los Angeles Unified school district, revealing a stark contrast between a mainstream and an alternative educational setting.

Alexander Hamilton Senior High is the area's primary comprehensive high school, performing above district and state averages in English Language Arts with a strong 93.8% graduation rate. In contrast, Cheviot Hills Continuation is a much smaller alternative school serving a high-needs population, with significantly lower academic proficiency and a 71.1% graduation rate, highlighting its role for students who may struggle in traditional settings.

Key insights show Hamilton maintains solid outcomes despite a concerning downward trend in its statewide ranking, while both schools face challenges in mathematics. A notable finding is that Cheviot Hills receives more than double the per-student funding and has a lower student-teacher ratio than Hamilton, yet contends with an extreme 91.5% chronic absenteeism rate. This indicates that while Hamilton provides a robust option for most students, the district faces significant challenges in effectively supporting its most vulnerable populations through specialized programs.