Best High Schools in Zip Code 94606

This analysis covers two public high schools, MetWest High and Dewey Academy High, serving grades 9-12 in Oakland's 94606 zip code, both operating within the Oakland Unified school district, which is ranked in the bottom quartile statewide.

These are relatively small schools with a combined enrollment of 324 students, and they serve student populations where over 94% qualify for free or reduced-price lunch. MetWest High is the larger of the two and has a slightly more favorable student-teacher ratio. Dewey Academy High has shown remarkable recent improvement, jumping from the 3rd to the 19th percentile in statewide rankings over two years, though it still faces significant challenges.

The most critical finding is the severe chronic absenteeism rate of 98% at Dewey Academy High, which far exceeds district and state averages and is a major barrier to learning. Despite an exceptionally high per-student spending of over $44,000, the school's graduation rate is 51.2% and proficiency in core subjects remains low, indicating that financial investment alone cannot overcome foundational challenges like attendance. Parents should note the dramatic ranking improvement at Dewey Academy is a positive sign, but the overall data suggests both schools operate in a challenging district context and face steep obstacles in achieving academic outcomes comparable to state averages.