Best Public Schools in Zip Code 90744

This analysis examines 12 public schools in the Wilmington, CA area (zip code 90744), including 8 elementary, 1 middle, and 3 high schools, nearly all part of the Los Angeles Unified district, serving a community with very high economic need.

The standout school is the Dr. Richard A. Vladovic Harbor Teacher Preparation Academy, a high school ranked in the top 1% statewide with exceptional graduation rates and test scores, achieving this despite having the lowest per-student spending among local high schools. In contrast, Dan M. Issacs Avalon High, a small alternative school, faces significant challenges with the highest chronic absenteeism and lowest test scores, even with the highest spending. The large comprehensive Phineas Banning Senior High shows encouraging improvement, rising in state rankings and boasting a graduation rate above the state average.

Across the area, academic performance varies widely, with most schools performing near or below state averages, particularly in mathematics. The sole dedicated middle school, Wilmington Mid Sci Technical Engr Arts Math (STEAM) Magnet, performs below average, which may impact feeder high schools. A key finding is the strong link between attendance and outcomes; schools with the lowest chronic absenteeism, like Harbor Teacher Prep and the charter school Scholarship Prep - South Bay, demonstrate better or improving results, highlighting a critical factor for success in this high-need community.