Best Public Schools in Zip Code 93274

This analysis examines 30 schools in the Tulare, CA area (zip code 93274), serving about 15,000 students from kindergarten through 12th grade across eight different districts, with standout elementary schools and high schools with strong graduation rates but some academic challenges.

Parents will find a mix of high-performing and struggling schools. Top elementary schools include Sundale Elementary and Liberty Elementary, which show strong test scores and low chronic absenteeism. The comprehensive high schools—Tulare Western High, Mission Oak High, and Tulare Union High—excel with graduation rates above 96%, though math proficiency is relatively low. In contrast, schools like Mulcahy Middle and Accelerated Charter High face significant academic and attendance challenges.

The Sundale Union Elementary District generally outperforms the larger Tulare City district. A key finding is the "high school paradox," where students graduate at very high rates despite middling test scores, suggesting strong support systems. Middle schools, particularly in Tulare City, show concerning performance drops, especially in math. While per-student spending varies wildly, the highest-funded schools, which serve high-need populations, do not always yield better outcomes, indicating that how resources are used is critical.