The 30 Best High Schools in Sacramento: Rankings and Academic Performance Guide
Sacramento serves as home to 44 high schools across multiple districts, offering families a diverse range of educational options for their students.
The city’s high school landscape spans several unified school districts, including Elk Grove, Sacramento City, Natomas, Twin Rivers, and San Juan, each providing unique academic programs and learning environments.
Students and families seeking the highest-performing high schools in Sacramento can choose from institutions that excel in academics, college preparation, extracurricular activities, and community engagement.
These schools range from traditional public high schools and specialized charter programs to private institutions, each offering distinct approaches to education.
The top-performing schools demonstrate strong test scores, high graduation rates, and comprehensive programs that prepare students for college and career success.
Here are the 30 best high schools in Sacramento:
1. West Campus High School
West Campus High School stands as Sacramento’s top-ranked public high school according to U.S. News & World Report. The school earned the #32 position statewide among California’s 2,000+ high schools.
This college preparatory institution serves 881 students in grades 9-12. West Campus operates within the Sacramento City Unified School District and maintains a 27.5-to-1 student-teacher ratio.
The school ranks in the top 10% of all California public schools. It received recognition as the 258th best college prep public high school nationally out of 17,915 schools.
West Campus offers Advanced Placement courses and operates 22 sports programs. The school also provides a Gifted & Talented program for academically motivated students.
Students come from culturally and economically diverse Sacramento neighborhoods. The institution focuses on preparing students for college-level academic work.
2. Natomas Pacific Pathways Prep
Natomas Pacific Pathways Prep ranks 145th within California and stands among the top 20% of public schools statewide. The charter school serves grades 9-12 in the Natomas Unified School District.
The school ranks 10th among public high schools in the Sacramento area. It holds the 22nd position among California’s magnet high schools and 34th among charter high schools.
Students can access Advanced Placement coursework and exams. The school performs above average compared to other public and charter schools in California with similar grade levels.
Natomas Pacific Pathways Prep receives recognition for its diversity. The school maintains a rating of 3.92 out of 5 and earns a performance score of 9/10.
The charter school operates as part of the traditional educational program model. It ranks 6th in the Sacramento metro area for high school performance.
3. Westlake Charter High School
Westlake Charter High School operates as a public charter school within the Natomas Unified School District in Sacramento. The school serves 1,382 students across grades K-12, making it the 678th largest public high school in California.
The school maintains a student-teacher ratio of 22.0 to 1. Westlake Charter ranks within the top 30% of all public schools in California based on academic performance metrics.
The student body reflects significant diversity, with 84% minority enrollment. Additionally, 34% of students qualify as economically disadvantaged, indicating the school serves a varied socioeconomic population.
Westlake Charter offers a Gifted & Talented program for academically advanced students. The school welcomes students as “Explorers” and maintains an active enrollment process for new families seeking admission.
4. Valley High School
Valley High School serves 1,629 students in grades 9-12 as part of the Elk Grove Unified School District. The public school maintains a student-teacher ratio of 19.6 to 1.
The school offers Advanced Placement courses and features a Project Lead The Way curriculum. Valley High also provides a Gifted & Talented program for high-achieving students.
Students can access rigorous academic programs designed to prepare them for college. The school emphasizes both academic excellence and community engagement.
Valley High ranks as the 549th largest public high school in California. It stands as one of 17 high schools within the Elk Grove Unified School District system.
The campus creates a welcoming environment that supports student success across various academic pursuits.
5. Elk Grove High School
Elk Grove High School stands as one of the established institutions in the Elk Grove Unified School District. The school serves grades 9-12 and maintains a solid reputation within the Sacramento metropolitan area.
Located in Elk Grove, the school benefits from being part of a district known for strong academic performance. Elk Grove high schools collectively maintain an average ranking of 8/10 among California public schools.
The school contributes to the district’s impressive graduation rate statistics. Elk Grove area schools achieve a 93% graduation rate, which exceeds California’s state average of 86%.
Students at Elk Grove High School have access to comprehensive academic programs and extracurricular activities. The school serves a diverse student population and offers various pathways for college and career preparation.
The institution remains a key educational option for families in the Elk Grove community.
6. Mira Loma High School
Mira Loma School serves the suburban community of Carmichael in Sacramento County. The school offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for college and career pathways.
The campus provides various academic programs including Advanced Placement courses and career technical education options. Students can participate in multiple extracurricular activities and sports teams.
The school maintains partnerships with local community organizations and businesses. These connections provide students with internship opportunities and real-world learning experiences.
Faculty members focus on creating an inclusive learning environment that supports diverse student needs. The administration emphasizes both academic achievement and character development.
Mira Loma High School’s location in Sacramento County provides students access to regional educational resources and cultural opportunities. The school continues to adapt its programs to meet changing educational standards and student interests.
7. Folsom High School
Folsom High School serves students in Folsom, California, and consistently ranks among the top high schools in Sacramento County. The school has built a strong reputation for academic excellence over many years.
Students at Folsom High School benefit from a comprehensive curriculum and experienced teaching staff. The school emphasizes college preparation and offers various advanced coursework options.
Folsom High School maintains solid test scores and graduation rates that reflect its commitment to student achievement. The campus provides resources that support both academic and extracurricular activities.
The school’s location in Folsom places it within a district known for educational quality. Parents and students recognize Folsom High School as a reliable choice for secondary education in the Sacramento area.
8. Sacramento Charter High School
Sacramento Charter High School serves grades 9-12 with an enrollment of 365 students. The school operates as a single-school district within Sacramento’s public charter system.
The institution has experienced notable changes in its academic standing recently. It held a 4-star rating during the 2021-2022 school year but dropped to a 2-star rating in subsequent years.
This decline reflects challenges in maintaining consistent academic performance. The school’s statewide ranking has fallen correspondingly during this period.
Sacramento Charter High School continues to serve its student population despite these setbacks. The school remains part of Sacramento’s charter school network, offering an alternative educational option for families in the area.
Students attend this public charter institution as an alternative to traditional district schools. The school’s smaller enrollment size may provide more individualized attention compared to larger comprehensive high schools.
9. Western Sierra Collegiate Academy
Western Sierra Collegiate Academy, located near Sacramento in Rocklin, California, is a top-performing public charter school known for its rigorous college-preparatory curriculum and strong academic culture.
Serving students in grades 7 through 12, the school emphasizes critical thinking, leadership, and real-world application across all subjects. Western Sierra consistently ranks among the best public high schools in the region, with high test scores, a strong Advanced Placement (AP) program, and impressive college acceptance rates.
The school fosters a close-knit, supportive environment where students are encouraged to challenge themselves and grow both academically and personally. With a focus on character development, civic responsibility, and academic excellence, Western Sierra prepares students for success in college and beyond.
Parents often praise the school’s dedicated faculty, engaged community, and safe, respectful atmosphere. As part of the Rocklin Academy Family of Schools, Western Sierra stands out as a top choice for families seeking a high-quality education in the Sacramento area.
10. Rosemont High School
Rosemont High School serves 1,515 students in grades 9-12 in Sacramento. The school is part of the Sacramento City Unified School District and was established in 2003.
The school offers Advanced Placement courses and a Gifted & Talented program. These programs provide academic opportunities for students seeking challenging coursework.
Rosemont High School ranks within the bottom 50% of public schools in California. The school’s statewide ranking has declined from 654 out of 2,133 California high schools in 2018-2019 to 1,408 out of 2,323 in 2023-2024.
The school maintains a commitment to preparing students for college and career demands. It focuses on developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills among its students.
As one of 17 high schools in the Sacramento City Unified School District, Rosemont High School continues serving its community despite ranking challenges.
11. Rio Americano High School
Rio Americano High School serves 1,867 students in grades 9-12 in Sacramento. The school operates as part of the San Juan Unified School District.
The school ranks within the top 50% of all public schools in California. It consistently places among the top 500 high schools statewide according to performance metrics.
Rio Americano offers Advanced Placement courses to prepare students for college-level academics. The school maintains a focus on providing rigorous educational opportunities.
Only 20.9% of students receive free and reduced lunch assistance. This percentage falls significantly below the California state average of 55.7%.
The campus is located at 4540 American River Drive in Sacramento. Rio Americano represents one of 22 high schools within the San Juan Unified School District system.
12. Antelope High School
Antelope High School ranks in the top 30% of all public schools in California. The school serves 1,796 students in grades 9-12 in Antelope, CA.
The school receives a 4-star rating from SchoolDigger. This rating reflects strong academic performance across multiple measures.
Antelope High School maintains a graduation rate of 93.6%. The dropout rate stands at 4.7%, indicating solid student retention.
The school demonstrates consistent performance on state testing assessments. Students show proficiency across various academic subjects and grade levels.
Among high schools in the Antelope area, this institution stands out as the top performer. It holds the highest statewide ranking compared to other local schools.
The school provides comprehensive educational programs for its nearly 1,800 students. Faculty and staff support student achievement through established curriculum standards.
13. John F. Kennedy High School
John F. Kennedy High School serves 2,211 students in grades 9-12 at 6715 Gloria Drive in Sacramento. The school operates as part of the Sacramento City Unified School District.
The campus offers a coed educational environment with partial virtual instruction options. This means some courses are delivered through online platforms while others remain in traditional classroom settings.
Kennedy High School is located in the 95831 zip code area of Sacramento. The school maintains standard high school programming for its large student population.
The school’s location in Sacramento County provides access to various educational resources and opportunities. Students can participate in typical high school activities and academic programs offered by the district.
Kennedy High School represents one of the larger high schools in the Sacramento area based on enrollment numbers.
14. Jesuit High School
Jesuit High School serves as an all-boys Catholic college preparatory institution in Carmichael, California. Founded in 1963, the school enrolls approximately 976 students in grades 9-12 from throughout the greater Sacramento Valley.
The school ranks within the top 20% of private schools in California. USA Today High School Sports ranked Jesuit as the No. 8 best high school for athletes in California for 2025.
Jesuit operates under the USA West Province of the Society of Jesus. The institution maintains accreditation through the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and the Western Catholic Education Association through June 2026.
The school draws students from diverse ethnic, socio-economic, and religious backgrounds across the Sacramento area. Jesuit focuses on forming young men into leaders through its Catholic educational mission and comprehensive academic programs.
15. Luther Burbank High School
Luther Burbank High School serves 1,574 students in grades 9-12 in Sacramento. The school operates as part of the Sacramento City Unified School District.
The school opened in 1980 and offers several academic programs. Students can access AP courses, International Baccalaureate programs, and Gifted & Talented options.
Luther Burbank structures its education through six small learning communities. Each community focuses on specific academic and career themes to prepare students for work and college.
The school’s mission emphasizes creating community, appreciating diversity, and teaching civic responsibility. It aims to prepare students to work, learn and thrive in their future endeavors.
Luther Burbank ranks within the bottom 50% of California public schools. The Sacramento City Unified School District receives a 2-star rating and ranks 1000 out of 1568 districts statewide.
The school offers specialized programs including Hmong language classes for native speakers.
16. Bella Vista High School
Bella Vista High School stands as a distinguished public institution in Fair Oaks, California. The school serves 1,926 students in grades 9-12 within the San Juan Unified School District.
The school ranks within the top 20% of all public schools in California. This achievement is notable given that the facilities are over 60 years old with limited recent updates.
Bella Vista earned recognition as a California Distinguished School in 2003 from the state’s Department of Education. It was the only school in Sacramento County to receive this honor that year.
The school attracts students from beyond its attendance area. Approximately 50% of enrolled students choose to attend Bella Vista rather than their neighborhood school.
Located 14 miles northeast of Sacramento, the school offers Advanced Placement courses and Project Lead The Way curriculum to its students.
17. Laguna Creek High School
Laguna Creek High School serves 2,119 students in grades 9-12 in Elk Grove, California. The school opened in 1994 as part of the Elk Grove Unified School District.
The school consistently ranks in the top 20-30% of California high schools. It maintains a 4-star rating and falls within the top 50% of all public schools in the state.
Students at Laguna Creek outperform both district and state averages on standardized tests. The school achieves a strong 92.6% four-year graduation rate.
Academic programs include Advanced Placement courses and International Baccalaureate options. The school also offers a Gifted and Talented program for qualifying students.
Laguna Creek is one of 17 high schools within the Elk Grove Unified School District. The campus is located in Sacramento County.
18. H.E. Barbour High School
H.E. Barbour High School serves students in the Sacramento area as part of the local school district system. The school provides a comprehensive educational program for high school students.
The campus offers various academic courses designed to prepare students for post-secondary education and career paths. Students can access core curriculum subjects along with elective options.
H.E. Barbour High School maintains facilities that support both classroom learning and extracurricular activities. The school works to create an environment where students can develop academically and socially.
Faculty members at the school focus on delivering instruction across multiple subject areas. The staff aims to support student achievement and growth throughout their high school experience.
The school participates in district-wide initiatives and follows state educational standards. Students have opportunities to engage in various programs during their time at the institution.
19. Twin Rivers RISE Academy
Twin Rivers RISE Academy operates within the Twin Rivers Unified School District in Sacramento. The school serves students in grades 9-12 as one of seven high schools in the district.
RISE Academy focuses on providing alternative education pathways for students. The academy offers flexible scheduling options and individualized learning approaches.
The school is part of a district that serves approximately 25,000 students from diverse backgrounds. Twin Rivers Unified represents a community where 53 different languages are spoken.
Students at RISE Academy have access to district-wide resources and programs. The academy maintains smaller class sizes compared to traditional comprehensive high schools.
The school emphasizes credit recovery and acceleration programs. RISE Academy provides support services designed to help students achieve graduation requirements and prepare for post-secondary opportunities.
20. Thomas Edison High School
Thomas Edison High School serves students in the Sacramento area as part of the Stockton Unified School District. The school offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for college and career pathways.
Edison High provides various academic programs including Advanced Placement courses. Students can choose from multiple elective options to support their individual interests and goals.
The campus features modern facilities that support both academic and extracurricular activities. Students participate in athletics, clubs, and other organizations throughout the school year.
The school maintains partnerships with local colleges and universities. These connections help students transition to higher education after graduation.
Thomas Edison High School focuses on creating an environment where students can develop critical thinking skills. The faculty works to support student achievement across all academic areas.
21. Del Campo High School
Del Campo High School serves 1,557 students in grades 9-12 in Fair Oaks, California. The school operates as part of the San Juan Unified School District and opened in 1980.
The school ranks within the top 50% of all public schools in California. It offers Advanced Placement courses to help students prepare for college-level work.
Del Campo High School is one of 22 high schools in the San Juan Unified School District. The school provides traditional education programming for its diverse student body.
Performance varies across different student demographics. Hispanic students at the school rank in the top 30% of California high schools, while other student groups perform in lower percentiles statewide.
The school maintains an active status and continues to serve the Fair Oaks community. Students can access various academic programs and district resources through the San Juan Unified system.
22. Grant Union High School
Grant Union High School serves 2,016 students in grades 9-12 in Sacramento. The school operates as part of the Twin Rivers Unified School District.
Students can access Advanced Placement courses and participate in a Gifted & Talented program. The school emphasizes connecting students through academic and social growth opportunities.
Grant Union High offers traditional high school education with a focus on comprehensive student development. The campus has been serving the Sacramento community since 1980.
The school ranks in the bottom 50% of California public high schools based on current performance metrics. Despite ranking challenges, Grant Union High maintains its commitment to student engagement and educational programming.
Grant Union High School is located in Sacramento and continues to provide educational services to nearly 2,000 students annually.
23. Carlos O. Smith School
Carlos O. Smith School serves students in the Sacramento area as part of the local educational system. The school focuses on providing academic instruction across core subject areas.
Students at Carlos O. Smith receive coursework in mathematics, English language arts, science, and social studies. The school maintains standard classroom facilities to support student learning.
The institution operates under district guidelines and state educational standards. Teachers work to prepare students for graduation requirements and post-secondary options.
Carlos O. Smith School participates in district-wide assessment programs to track student progress. The school provides guidance counseling services to help students with academic planning.
The campus includes typical high school facilities such as classrooms, administrative offices, and common areas. Students have access to resources that support their educational development during their time at the school.
24. Arden Middle School (high school program)
Arden Middle School operates as a 6-8 grade institution in Sacramento’s San Juan Unified School District. The school serves approximately 1,000 students from surrounding communities at 1640 Watt Avenue.
The school offers honors programs that provide advanced coursework for students preparing for high school academics. AVID programs support college readiness and academic success for middle grade students.
Arden Middle ranks within the top 50% of California public schools based on academic performance metrics. The school holds position #1258 among California middle schools according to state-required test results.
Students participate in various extracurricular activities including sports teams and academic clubs. Special education services and English learner programs support diverse student populations.
The San Juan Unified School District maintains non-discrimination policies across all programs and activities. Arden Middle prepares students for transition to high school through comprehensive academic and social programs.
25. Christian Brothers High School
Christian Brothers High School is a private Catholic college-preparatory institution located in Sacramento’s Oak Park neighborhood. The school was founded by the De La Salle Christian Brothers in 1876.
The school serves approximately 1,150 students in grades 9-12. It maintains a student-teacher ratio of 16:1, providing personalized attention for academic development.
Christian Brothers ranks within the top 20% of private schools in California. The school offers Advanced Placement courses and Project Lead The Way curriculum to prepare students for higher education.
As a Lasallian Catholic institution, the school emphasizes both academic excellence and character development. Students participate in a Christ-centered community that promotes faith, integrity, and global citizenship.
The coeducational high school draws students from approximately 75 local elementary schools. It operates within the Diocese of Sacramento and maintains its commitment to inspiring young men and women through challenging academic programs and diverse co-curricular activities.
26. Greenwood Charter High School
Greenwood Charter High School serves students in grades 9-12 in the Sacramento area. The school operates as a public charter institution with its own governance structure.
The campus focuses on personalized learning approaches. Students receive individualized attention through smaller class sizes compared to traditional public schools.
Greenwood Charter offers core academic subjects including English, mathematics, science, and social studies. The curriculum meets California state standards and graduation requirements.
The school emphasizes college and career readiness preparation. Students can access counseling services to help plan their post-secondary education paths.
Extracurricular activities are available to enhance the student experience. These programs help students develop leadership skills and explore personal interests outside the classroom.
The charter school model allows for flexibility in teaching methods. This approach can benefit students who learn differently or need alternative educational environments.
27. Sacramento Early College Academy
Sacramento Early College Academy provides students with dual enrollment opportunities to earn college credits while completing high school requirements. The academy partners with local community colleges to offer college-level coursework on campus.
Students can graduate with both a high school diploma and college credits toward an associate degree. This accelerated pathway reduces the time and cost needed for postsecondary education.
The school emphasizes hands-on learning approaches across all subjects. Faculty members integrate practical applications into academic content to enhance student engagement and understanding.
Career preparation remains a core focus through internship programs and industry partnerships. Students gain real-world experience while exploring potential career paths before graduation.
The academy serves as a tuition-free public option for Sacramento families seeking advanced academic opportunities. Small class sizes allow for personalized attention and support throughout the college preparation process.
28. La Sierra High School
La Sierra High School serves students in the Sacramento area as a public educational institution. The school operates under experienced leadership, with the current principal beginning their sixth year in the role.
The school emphasizes academic excellence through various programs. Students can access Advanced Placement courses to earn college credit while in high school.
La Sierra High School offers the Project Lead The Way curriculum. This program focuses on STEM education and engineering pathways for students interested in technical fields.
The school provides a Gifted and Talented program for high-achieving students. This specialized program offers enhanced learning opportunities and accelerated coursework.
La Sierra High School maintains a vision and mission statement that guides its educational approach. The administration welcomes families and emphasizes community involvement in student success.
The school prepares students for post-secondary education and career readiness. Academic programs align with state standards and college entrance requirements.
29. Kennedy High School
John F. Kennedy High School opened in 1980 and serves grades 9-12 in the Sacramento City Unified School District. The school is located at 6715 Gloria Drive in Sacramento.
Kennedy High School offers a comprehensive academic program focused on college and career readiness. Students can access multiple Advanced Placement courses and participate in the AP Capstone program.
The school features specialized signature programs including criminal justice, manufacturing and design, and culinary arts. A new electric vehicle automotive laboratory provides hands-on technical training opportunities.
Kennedy High School operates 27 different sports programs for student athletes. The school also maintains a Gifted and Talented program for high-achieving students.
Dual enrollment options allow students to earn college credits while completing their high school education. Various extracurricular activities complement the academic offerings.
The school uses a partial virtual instruction model, combining traditional classroom learning with some online educational components.
30. C.K. McClatchy High School
C.K. McClatchy High School serves over 2,400 students in grades 9-12 in Sacramento. The school is part of the Sacramento City Unified School District and operates as the oldest high school in the city.
The school offers Advanced Placement courses and maintains a Gifted & Talented program. Students can participate in 24 different sports programs throughout the academic year.
McClatchy High School is currently ranked in the bottom 50% of California public schools. The school’s statewide ranking has declined in recent years, dropping from 564th out of 2,017 schools in 2017-2018 to 1,125th position.
Despite ranking challenges, the school maintains a relatively high four-year graduation rate. The campus is located at 3066 Freeport Boulevard and is known for its cardinal red and white school colors.
Academic Programs and Curriculum
Sacramento’s top high schools provide comprehensive academic programs that prepare students for college and career success. These schools emphasize rigorous coursework, innovative STEM and arts integration, and targeted support for post-secondary transitions.
Advanced Placement and Honors Courses
Sacramento’s leading high schools offer extensive AP and honors programs to challenge academically motivated students. Most top-tier schools provide 15-25 AP courses across core subjects including calculus, chemistry, physics, literature, and history.
Schools like West Campus and Natomas Pacific Pathways Prep maintain strong AP participation rates. Students can earn college credit while developing advanced analytical skills.
Honors courses serve as stepping stones to AP-level work. These accelerated classes cover similar content to standard courses but at greater depth and pace.
Many schools report AP pass rates between 65-85% across different subjects. Biology, English Literature, and U.S. History consistently show high enrollment numbers.
Schools often require teacher recommendations and minimum GPA requirements for AP enrollment. Summer assignments and intensive preparation sessions help students succeed in these demanding courses.
STEM and Arts Integration
Sacramento high schools increasingly blend science, technology, engineering, mathematics with creative arts education. This approach develops both analytical and creative thinking skills students need for modern careers.
Engineering pathways include robotics clubs, coding bootcamps, and project-based learning experiences. Students work on real-world problems using design thinking methodologies.
Arts integration appears in courses combining digital media with computer science or architectural design with mathematics. These interdisciplinary approaches engage different learning styles.
Many schools partner with local tech companies and art institutions. Students gain access to professional mentorship and internship opportunities.
Maker spaces equipped with 3D printers, laser cutters, and recording equipment support hands-on learning. Students create prototypes, produce media content, and develop technical skills.
College and Career Readiness Initiatives
Sacramento schools implement comprehensive programs to prepare students for post-secondary success. These initiatives focus on academic preparation, career exploration, and practical life skills.
Dual enrollment programs allow students to take community college courses during high school. Students earn both high school and college credit simultaneously.
Career counseling services help students identify interests and align coursework with future goals. Regular college fairs and industry speakers expose students to various pathways.
Many schools require senior capstone projects that demonstrate mastery of key concepts. Students research topics, present findings, and defend their work before panels.
Financial literacy courses teach budgeting, loan management, and investment basics. These practical skills prepare students for independent living and fiscal responsibility.
Internship coordination connects students with local businesses and organizations. Real workplace experience builds professional skills and network connections.
Student Experience
Sacramento’s top high schools provide comprehensive student experiences through diverse extracurricular programs, competitive athletics, and robust support systems. These schools foster student engagement both inside and outside the classroom.
Extracurricular Activities and Clubs
Students at Sacramento’s leading high schools access extensive club offerings that span academic, cultural, and special interest areas. Most top-tier schools maintain 30-50 active clubs and organizations.
Academic clubs include National Honor Society, debate teams, robotics clubs, and subject-specific organizations like Math Olympiad and Science Bowl. These programs prepare students for competitions and college applications.
Arts programs feature drama clubs, choir, band, orchestra, and visual arts societies. Many schools produce multiple theatrical performances annually and participate in regional music festivals.
Cultural organizations reflect Sacramento’s diversity through clubs focused on different ethnicities and languages. The region’s unique Hmong language immersion program extends into cultural clubs at participating schools.
Service clubs like Key Club, Interact, and student government provide leadership opportunities. Students organize community service projects, fundraisers, and school events through these organizations.
Special interest groups cover photography, gaming, environmental activism, and career-focused clubs like Future Business Leaders of America.
Athletic Opportunities
Sacramento area high schools compete in multiple athletic leagues with strong programs across various sports. Schools typically offer 15-25 varsity sports throughout fall, winter, and spring seasons.
Popular sports include football, basketball, baseball, softball, soccer, track and field, and swimming. Many schools maintain competitive tennis, volleyball, and cross country programs.
Facilities at top schools feature well-maintained fields, gymnasiums, swimming pools, and track facilities. Several schools have invested in modern weight rooms and training equipment.
Success rates vary by school, but many Sacramento high schools regularly advance teams to sectional and state playoffs. Student athletes often earn college scholarships through these programs.
Participation levels remain high, with many schools seeing 40-60% of students involved in at least one sport during their high school career.
Student Support Services
Sacramento’s best high schools provide comprehensive support systems addressing academic, emotional, and college preparation needs. These services help students navigate challenges and plan for their futures.
Academic support includes tutoring programs, study groups, and intervention services for struggling students. Many schools employ dedicated academic counselors who monitor student progress.
College counseling services assist with application processes, scholarship searches, and career planning. Top schools maintain dedicated college counselors who work with students starting in sophomore year.
Mental health resources feature on-site counselors, peer support programs, and crisis intervention services. Schools partner with local mental health organizations to provide additional resources.
Special needs support accommodates students with learning disabilities, physical challenges, and other requirements through individualized education programs and specialized staff.
Career services connect students with internship opportunities, job shadowing programs, and vocational training options for those not pursuing four-year colleges.
