Best High Schools in Zip Code 78259

Zip code 78259 in San Antonio, Texas, is home to two high schools serving grades 6-12, offering a stark contrast in educational models: a large, high-performing traditional public school and a small, specialized charter school.

Johnson High School is the standout in this area, a large public school within the North East Independent School District (Isd) with an enrollment of 3,196. It consistently earns a 5-star rating and ranks in the top 7% of Texas high schools. Its academic performance is exceptional, with proficiency rates in Algebra I, Biology, English, and U.S. History all significantly exceeding state averages. For example, 92% of students are proficient in U.S. History compared to 70% statewide. Johnson also boasts a high 95.2% graduation rate and a low 1.1% dropout rate, with only 23.84% of students eligible for free or reduced lunch. In contrast, Laurel Ridge is a very small alternative charter school (39 students) under the University Of Texas University Charter School, serving grades 6-12. It has a 0-2 star rating and ranks in the 34th percentile, with test scores that are generally below state averages, though it shows strength in Biology and English II Reading. Despite spending nearly double per student ($13,798) compared to Johnson ($7,587), its academic outcomes are much lower, likely due to serving a student population with higher needs.

A key takeaway is the inverse relationship between spending and performance: Johnson achieves top-tier results with lower per-student spending, while Laurel Ridge's high spending does not translate into high test scores. However, Laurel Ridge's 0% dropout rate and very low student-teacher ratio of 8.7:1 suggest it successfully retains students who may need a more individualized environment. This zip code illustrates the diverse educational options available, from a high-achieving traditional school to a niche alternative school, each serving different student needs.