Best High Schools in Zip Code 94947

This analysis covers two public high schools in zip code 94947, serving grades 9-12 in Novato, California, both within the Novato Unified district, revealing a significant performance gap between a traditional comprehensive school and a smaller alternative program.

Novato High is the stronger academic performer, ranking above the state average with a 93.4% graduation rate and English proficiency exceeding the state average, though its statewide ranking has declined over the past three years. In contrast, Marin Oaks High serves far fewer students and faces substantial challenges, with very low test proficiency and a chronic absenteeism rate of 47.1%, more than double the state average, though it maintains an 85.7% graduation rate.

Key takeaways for parents include noting the stark differences in student environment and support; Marin Oaks High, with a much lower student-teacher ratio and higher per-student spending, appears to serve a higher-needs population. Both schools, particularly Marin Oaks, show a strong link between high absenteeism and lower academic performance, and both struggle with science proficiency. The data suggests Novato Unified contains two very different educational settings within the same community.