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Los Angeles Unified High Schools Named Among Best in Nation

 

News Release

 

CONTACT:

communications@lausd.net

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 24, 2024

 

Los Angeles Unified High Schools Named Among Best in Nation

 

Los Angeles, CA (April 24, 2024) – The recently published US News and World Report annual ranking of high schools across the country demonstrates the strength and consistency of Los Angeles Unified schools, ranking 130 out of 183 high schools, with the Science Academy STEM Magnet in North Hollywood notably positioned as the #12 ranked school in the nation (#3 in California). 

 

The Science Academy STEM Magnet’s 100 percent graduation rate, 100 percent college readiness rate and significant AP participation rate all played significant roles in how it was named the #3 high school in California and #12 in the nation. Of the other 130 Los Angeles Unified high schools ranked, Harbor Teacher Preparation Academy (#6 in California), Girls Academic Leadership Academy Dr. Michelle King School for STEM (#20 in California) and Downtown Magnets High School (#33 in California) were also ranked highly for their incredible performance metrics. 

 

“Congratulations to all the exceptional Los Angeles Unified high schools for once again being ranked among the best in the nation,” Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho said. “We are especially thrilled for the Science Academy STEM Magnet, a school that embodies the highest standards in our District.” 

 

US News and World Report annually ranks more than 17 thousand schools across the country on six factors based on their performance on state assessments and how well they prepare students for college. The designation is awarded to schools for demonstrating academic excellence, social equity and responsiveness to the needs of young adolescents. In order to retain the designation, each school is reevaluated every three years. 

 

“The Science Academy STEM Magnet can best be described in a quote from the great scientist and philosopher Aristotle: ‘The whole is greater than the sum of its parts,’” Science Academy STEM Magnet Principal Carlos Lauchu said. “The school’s success is a reflection of all stakeholders: students, families, faculty and staff. It’s a school of district and community partnerships. The Science Academy students are ready for the world!”

 

“We are absolutely thrilled that our Los Angeles Unified high schools made the US News 2024 edition of the Best High Schools across the nation! Congratulations to all our schools that made the list–and a special shout out to our BD5 schools,” Board President Jackie Goldberg said. “Thank you staff, families and students for all of your dedication and hard work!”

 

“Seeing so many Los Angeles Unified schools rank among the best in the nation fills me with joy and pride,” Board Vice President Scott M. Schmerelson said. “When I visit my schools, I see the hard work that everyone does from the students, teachers, and administrators–everyone works hard to do their part. I especially want to shout out to my Board, District 3 schools for the massive contributions they make to their communities. Thank you all for helping make our district a great place to learn.” 

 

“I am extremely proud of the hard work of the students, educators, and staff at the Girls Academic Leadership Academy, Los Angeles Center for Enriched Studies, and Middle College High School resulting in being named among the U.S. News & World Report’s 2024 Best High Schools,” Board Member Dr. George McKenna said. “I also congratulate the many other outstanding schools recognized across Los Angeles Unified. This is a true reflection of excellence in our District.” 

 

“While rankings don’t tell the whole story, it’s always wonderful for our educators and school communities to receive national recognition for their time, energy, and work in creating a thriving learning environment for all our students,” Board Member Dr. Rocio Rivas said.

 

Congratulations to the LA Unified High Schools that earned high National and metro-area rankings in the U.S. News & World Report’s 2024 Best High Schools rankings. I'm proud that many of these U.S. News Best High Schools are from Board District 4,” Board Member Nick Melvoin said. “This highlights the tireless efforts of our teachers, staff, and Principals to provide quality academic support and services to our LA Unified students."

 

Congratulations to the Science Academy STEM Magnet for being recognized as 12th in the nation and in Los Angeles Unified in the US News and World Reports latest high school rankings,” Board Member Kelly Gonez said. “This is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our amazing students, educators, and families. I’m proud to have this high-quality program, and so many others, in Board District 6.”

 

“Congratulations to our selected outstanding Los Angeles Unified High Schools, especially our BD7 schools for being recognized in the U.S. News & World Report’s 2024 Best High Schools rankings,” Board Member Tanya Ortiz Franklin said. “This achievement honors the persistence and teamwork of our students, educators, staff, and families. I am so proud of your excellence!” 

 

For the most up-to-date information, please follow Los Angeles Unified on Twitter/X at @laschools and @lausdsup, Instagram at @laschools and @lausdsup and Facebook at @laschools and @AlbertoMCarvalho1.

 

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