Best Public Schools in Zip Code 94803

This analysis covers six public schools in zip code 94803, serving parts of Richmond and El Sobrante, California, which include four elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school, all part of the West Contra Costa Unified district.

Among these schools, Olinda Elementary stands out as the top performer, with test scores above the district average and the lowest rate of chronic absenteeism. In contrast, Betty Reid Soskin Middle school faces significant challenges, ranking in the bottom 10% of middle schools statewide with very low proficiency rates, especially in 8th-grade math. The district as a whole ranks in the bottom third in California, indicating widespread academic challenges across the area.

Key findings show that higher per-student spending does not guarantee better results, as the top-performing Olinda spends the least. Chronic absenteeism is a concern at all schools, exceeding the state average, and appears loosely connected to performance. Despite the district's struggles, De Anza High maintains a graduation rate near the state average and a dropout rate better than both the district and state, even while serving a highly economically disadvantaged student population.