Best High Schools in Zip Code 90042

This analysis examines three high schools serving grades 6-12 in the 90042 zip code of Los Angeles, revealing a diverse educational landscape with one standout performer and significant challenges in math achievement and student attendance.

Benjamin Franklin Senior High is the strongest performer, boasting a 96% graduation rate and the best test scores, outperforming the local Los Angeles Unified district average despite having the lowest per-student spending. In contrast, Academia Avance Charter shows improvement over time but struggles with very low math proficiency, and Highland Park Continuation faces severe challenges, including a 63% chronic absenteeism rate and 0% proficiency in math and science, despite having the highest per-student funding.

Key takeaways for parents include a notable performance-spending paradox, where higher funding does not correlate with better outcomes in this area. All three schools struggle with math proficiency and chronic absenteeism compared to state averages. However, Benjamin Franklin demonstrates effective interventions, with student performance improving dramatically by 11th grade, suggesting some schools in the area are successfully helping students catch up over time.