Oh, neat. There’s just updated API data for CA schools earlier this week on 5/13.
I’m finding all the information both pleasant and frustrating. Pleasant that it’s available for all so easily, yet tricky to understand in plain English.
What I looked at is the API data files 2009-2010 (2009 Base API-Data File DBF). Below are the top ten CA High School rankings without looking at special education, alternative models (ASAM), small size, or charter schools.
2009-2010 CA Base API High Schools
- Gretchen Whitney High
- Oxford Academy
- California Academy of Mathematics and Sc
- Mission San Jose High
- Lowell High
- San Marino High
- Monta Vista High
- Saratoga High
- Miramonte High
- Troy High
Note that Lynbrook is next at #11 after Troy High.
For comparison, here is the same list based on the Growth API instead of Base.
2009-2010 CA Growth API High Schools
- Gretchen Whitney High
- Oxford Academy
- California Academy of Mathematics and Sc
- Lowell High
- Mission San Jose High
- San Marino High
- Monta Vista High
- Saratoga High
- Miramonte High
- Lynbrook High
Troy is #11 in the growth basis.
The list is largely unchanged between the base and the subsequent growth API update.
I think it’s interesting since I attended Monta Vista High and students largely hold a grudge against MV for being so book focused and competitive. Parents, on the other hand, do whatever they can to get into the school so that their children will have a (theoretically) better future.
Disclaimer: I am not familiar with CA school rankings so my analysis may not take into consideration something that another person may view as key.