Best High Schools in Zip Code 94609

This analysis examines three public high schools serving grades 9-12 in Oakland, California's 94609 zip code, all part of the Oakland Unified school district, which ranks in the bottom quartile of California districts.

Oakland Technical High stands out as the highest-performing school in the area, earning a 4-star rating and ranking in the 74th percentile statewide. It achieves strong academic results, with 60% English proficiency and a 94% graduation rate that significantly outpaces both district and state averages, despite serving a student population where 70% qualify for free or reduced-price lunch. In contrast, Oakland International High and Street Academy Alternative High are much smaller schools designed for specific, high-needs student groups, resulting in very different academic profiles and outcomes.

The two smaller schools serve distinct missions: Oakland International High likely focuses on recent immigrant students, reflected in intensive support and the highest per-student spending, while Street Academy Alternative serves at-risk youth, evidenced by a very high chronic absenteeism rate of 91%. This creates a varied educational landscape within one zip code, where a family's choice depends heavily on their student's specific needs, from a traditional comprehensive high school to specialized alternative programs.