Best Public Schools in Zip Code 92324

This analysis covers 15 schools in the 92324 zip code of Colton, California, serving grades K-12 across three main districts: Colton Joint Unified, Rialto Unified, and Mojave River Academy - National Trails District.

When comparing schools, notable standouts include Dr. Ernest Garcia Elementary and Georgia F. Morris Elementary from Rialto Unified, which rank highest in the area. Colton High also shows strength with the highest graduation rate. In contrast, schools like Alice Birney Elementary and Colton Middle face significant academic challenges, ranking in the lowest percentiles statewide. The two alternative schools, Mojave River Academy - National Trails and Washington High, serve vulnerable populations with very different approaches and outcomes.

Overall, schools in this zip code face considerable challenges, with average test scores in English, math, and science below state averages, and high rates of student poverty and chronic absenteeism. A key finding is the performance disparity between districts; Rialto Unified schools consistently outperform those in Colton Joint Unified despite similar demographics and lower per-student spending. Parents should note that academic performance, particularly in math, tends to decline in higher grades, and chronic absenteeism is a widespread issue that correlates with lower outcomes.