Best High Schools in Zip Code 91406

This analysis examines five high schools in zip code 91406 (Lake Balboa/Van Nuys, CA), serving grades 9-12, which include charter, magnet, and continuation programs with enrollments ranging from just over 100 to more than 3,000 students.

Parents will find a wide range of educational options and outcomes in this area. High Technical LA stands out as the top overall performer with strong test scores across all subjects and the lowest chronic absenteeism, while operating efficiently with relatively lower per-student spending. The largest school, Birmingham Community Charter High, achieves an exceptional graduation rate and remarkable English proficiency, though its math scores are below the state average. Daniel Pearl Journalism & Communications Magnet and Magnolia Science Academy 2 show more moderate academic results, with Magnolia experiencing a notable recent drop in its statewide ranking.

The most concerning school is Independence Continuation, which serves a vulnerable population and shows crisis-level indicators including a very low graduation rate, extremely high chronic absenteeism, and poor test scores despite the highest per-student spending in the group. The two charter schools in the Birmingham Community Charter High District and High Technical LA District demonstrate that strong outcomes are possible, while the two schools in Los Angeles Unified show vastly different results, highlighting the importance of individual school models and environments.