Top-tier high schools in California?

Hey there! My family might be relocating to California in the near future and I'll be starting junior year. We're looking to live in a district with a high-achieving high school. Can anyone tell me which high schools in California are the most prestigious? Thanks in advance!

Certainly! There are numerous high-ranking high schools in California.

If you're considering public schools, here are some options:

1) Lowell High School in San Francisco: This is a select public high school with competitive entry based on grades and test scores. It is highly regarded for its academic rigor and strong STEM programs.

2) Gunn High School and Palo Alto High School in Palo Alto: Both are strong academically, especially known for their STEM disciplines due to their proximity to Stanford University and Silicon Valley.

3) Troy High School in Fullerton: Known for its Tech and International Baccalaureate programs.

4) University High School in Irvine: It's part of the Irvine Unified School District, which is well-regarded overall. The school also offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme.

Additionally, if private schools are potentially on the table, you might want to consider:

1) Harvard-Westlake School in Los Angeles: This school is known for its rigorous curriculum and high acceptance rates to prestigious colleges.

2) The Harker School in San Jose: Known for its rigorous academics and a strong STEM program. The school also has a high college matriculation rate.

3) Phillips Academy in Andover: A renowned college-preparatory school known for its rigorous academic programs.

Remember, it's not just about the prestige of the school but also about the academic and extracurricular opportunities that fit you best as a student. You'll also want to consider factors such as class size, the availability of AP/IB courses, the focus of the curriculum (STEM, humanities, etc.), and the cultural fit. Good luck with the move and transition!