The 30 Best High Schools in Santa Clara, CA
Santa Clara County stands as one of California’s most academically competitive regions, home to numerous high-performing educational institutions that consistently rank among the state’s best.
The county’s schools benefit from strong community support, innovative programs, and proximity to Silicon Valley’s technological landscape.
Parents and students seeking the highest quality education have access to exceptional public and private high schools that offer diverse academic programs, college preparatory courses, and specialized learning opportunities.
These institutions range from traditional comprehensive high schools to early college programs and specialized academies that cater to different learning styles and career aspirations.
Here are the 30 best high schools in Santa Clara, CA:
1. Lynbrook High School
Lynbrook High School stands as the top-ranked public high school in the San Jose metro area. The school holds the #82 position in national rankings and ranks #9 among all California high schools.
Located in San Jose, Lynbrook operates within the Fremont Union High School District. The school serves grades 9-12 and opened in 1980.
Lynbrook excels particularly in STEM education. The school earned #12 nationally among STEM high schools for 2024, demonstrating strong performance in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics programs.
The school offers Advanced Placement courses to help students earn college credit. Lynbrook is one of seven high schools in the Fremont Union High School District.
Students benefit from the school’s location in Santa Clara County, an area known for housing multiple top-performing public high schools in Northern California.
2. Monta Vista High School
Monta Vista High School stands as one of California’s premier public high schools. Located in Cupertino, the school serves approximately 1,700 students in grades 9-12.
The school consistently ranks among the top comprehensive high schools in Santa Clara County and statewide. Current rankings place it 16th out of 2,323 California schools, putting it in the top 1% of public schools.
Established in 1969, Monta Vista operates within the Fremont Union High School District. The district itself ranks 34th out of 1,568 districts across California.
The school has earned recognition as a California Distinguished School and National Blue Ribbon School. Its location in Silicon Valley’s heart contributes to its strong academic reputation and extensive extracurricular programs.
Monta Vista’s robust academic offerings and comprehensive educational approach have made it a nationally recognized institution for over five decades.
3. Dr. T.J. Owens Gilroy Early College Academy
Dr. T.J. Owens Gilroy Early College Academy ranks among the top 1% of public schools in California. The school serves 290 students in grades 9-12 in Gilroy.
GECA operates as an educational partnership between Gilroy Unified School District and Gavilan College. Students receive college credits while completing their high school education.
The school was founded in 2007 with support from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. It has earned recognition as a California Distinguished School.
U.S. News & World Report ranked GECA 42nd nationally and third in California in 2019. The school received an overall score of 99.76 out of 100.
The academy offers AP courses and maintains a Gifted & Talented program. Its small student population creates a close-knit community environment.
4. Mission Early College High School
Mission Early College High School operates as a public alternative school in Santa Clara, serving 189 students in grades 9-12. The school functions as a dual enrollment partnership between Santa Clara Unified School District and West Valley-Mission Community College District.
Students benefit from both high school and college courses through this unique college immersion program. The school maintains a student-teacher ratio of approximately 24 to 1.
Academic performance shows strong results, with 85% of students achieving proficiency in reading and 45% in math according to state assessments. The school consistently ranks in the top 10% of California high schools.
Mission Early College High has earned recognition as a top-rated institution, ranking within the top 20% of all public schools statewide. The school received a 5-star rating from SchoolDigger for the 2023-2024 academic year.
Located at 3000 Mission College Boulevard, the school serves as one of eight high schools within the Santa Clara Unified School District.
5. Santa Clara High School
Santa Clara High School serves as a prominent public institution within the Santa Clara Unified School District. The school operates as one of eight high schools in the district.
Students have access to Advanced Placement courses that prepare them for college-level academics. This curriculum allows motivated students to earn college credit while still in high school.
The school is located in Santa Clara, positioning students in the heart of Silicon Valley. This location provides unique opportunities for students interested in technology and innovation careers.
Santa Clara High School maintains its status as an established educational institution in the region. The school continues to serve families throughout the Santa Clara community.
The campus offers various academic programs designed to meet diverse student needs and interests.
6. Adrian Wilcox High School
Adrian Wilcox High School serves approximately 1,695 students in grades 9-12 in Santa Clara. The school ranks within the top 30% of all public schools in California.
The comprehensive public high school operates as part of the Santa Clara Unified School District. It is one of five high schools in the district and offers Advanced Placement courses.
Adrian Wilcox High has received recognition for its academic performance. Niche ranked the school number 45 out of 243 Bay Area public high schools.
The school’s performance has fluctuated over recent years. Its statewide ranking has ranged from 185th to 703rd among California’s high schools.
Adrian Wilcox High was first accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges in 1966. The school continues to maintain its accreditation status.
7. Los Gatos High School
Los Gatos High School serves grades 9-12 in Los Gatos, California. The school consistently ranks among the top 5% of high schools in California.
The institution holds a 5-star rating from School Digger. It demonstrates strong academic performance across multiple metrics.
Los Gatos High School maintains impressive graduation rates. The school also reports low rates of chronic absenteeism among its student body.
Recent rankings place Los Gatos High School as the 47th best high school nationally according to Niche.com. This recognition reflects the school’s sustained academic excellence.
The high school operates as the primary secondary education institution for Los Gatos residents. Students benefit from the school’s established reputation and academic programs.
Los Gatos High School’s performance contributes to Santa Clara County’s strong educational standings. The county averages high rankings across its public school systems.
8. Saratoga High School
Saratoga High School serves grades 9-12 in Saratoga, California. The public institution earned recognition as the number one best college prep public high school in 2021.
The school maintains a strong reputation for rigorous academics. Students consistently perform well on standardized tests and college readiness metrics.
Saratoga High offers exceptional extracurricular programs alongside its academic offerings. These activities contribute to its status as one of California’s premier high schools.
The institution attracts families seeking high-quality public education in Santa Clara County. Its college preparatory focus helps students gain admission to competitive universities.
Located in an affluent community, the school benefits from strong parental support and community resources. This environment supports both academic achievement and student development.
Teachers at Saratoga High maintain high expectations for student performance. The combination of qualified staff and motivated students creates a competitive learning atmosphere.
9. Campbell High School
Campbell High School serves students in the Campbell Union High School District. The school operates within Santa Clara County’s highly-ranked educational system.
The district has received recognition for its English Language Development Academy. This program earned the 2025 Glenn Hoffmann Exemplary Program Award from the Santa Clara County School Boards Association.
Campbell High School benefits from being part of a county where high schools average strong performance ratings. Santa Clara County schools consistently rank in the top tier of California public education.
The school provides comprehensive high school education to its student body. Students have access to various academic programs and resources through the Campbell Union High School District.
Campbell High School contributes to the county’s overall graduation rate of 89%. This rate exceeds California’s state average of 87%.
10. Milpitas High School
Milpitas High School ranks among the top 5% of California high schools. The school has maintained this high performance consistently over the past three years.
The school achieves a 94.9% four-year graduation rate. Its dropout rate remains low at 4.0%.
Academic performance shows strong results in standardized testing. Students demonstrate 72.98% proficiency in 11th grade English Language Arts and 55.29% proficiency in 11th grade Mathematics.
Built in 1969, the campus spans 45 acres in Milpitas. The city has approximately 79,000 residents and sits adjacent to San Jose’s northern edge.
Milpitas High School serves a working-class community. The school provides comprehensive education programs for students in the area.
The institution stands out as the top-performing high school in Milpitas. It competes with other schools like Milpitas Middle College High School and Calaveras Hills.
11. Homestead High School
Homestead High School serves western Sunnyvale, southern Los Altos, and northwestern Cupertino in Santa Clara County. Established in 1962, the school operates as part of the Fremont Union High School District.
The school enrolls 2,405 students in grades nine through twelve. It maintains a reputation as a high-performing institution within the district.
Homestead High School has received recognition from the California Department of Education in 2003 and 2009. The school emphasizes excellence and equity in its educational approach.
The institution serves multiple communities across Santa Clara County boundaries. Students from three different city areas attend this public high school.
The school focuses on collaborative processes and targeted student supports. Faculty and administration prioritize continuous improvement in academic programs and student outcomes.
12. Cupertino High School
Cupertino High School stands as one of Santa Clara County’s premier public educational institutions. The school has earned recognition among California’s top 50 public high schools according to recent rankings.
The school maintains an exceptional graduation rate of 99% or higher. This performance significantly exceeds both the California state average of 86% and Santa Clara County’s average of 89%.
Located in Cupertino, the school serves students in one of the region’s most academically competitive areas. Cupertino high schools collectively rank in the top 1% of California public schools with average rankings of 10/10.
The institution benefits from strong community support and resources typical of the Silicon Valley region. Students have access to advanced academic programs that prepare them for college and career success.
Cupertino High School continues to demonstrate consistent academic excellence through standardized test performance and college readiness metrics.
13. Palo Alto High School
Palo Alto High School, commonly known as Paly, serves grades 9-12 within the Palo Alto Unified School District. The school consistently ranks among the top high schools in California.
Paly receives a 5-star rating from SchoolDigger and holds the #1 position for public high schools in Santa Clara County. Students have access to a strong variety of STEM classes and programs.
The school maintains solid academic performance with competitive test scores. Campus culture includes traditional events like homecoming and night rallies that build school spirit.
Located in Palo Alto, the school benefits from its position in Silicon Valley’s educational landscape. Paly attracts families seeking rigorous academic preparation and college readiness programs.
The school operates alongside Henry M. Gunn High School as one of two main high schools serving Palo Alto residents. Both institutions maintain strong reputations for academic excellence.
14. Silver Creek High School
Silver Creek High School serves 2,184 students in grades 9-12 in San Jose. The school operates as a magnet school within the East Side Union High School District.
The school consistently ranks in the top 30% of all public schools in California. In recent years, it has maintained strong performance rankings among state high schools.
Silver Creek High offers Advanced Placement courses to students. The school is located at 3434 Silver Creek Drive in San Jose.
The school has received recognition for its academic performance. It earned a 4-star rating from SchoolDigger based on recent evaluations.
Silver Creek High is one of 29 high schools in the East Side Union High School District. The school serves the San Jose community in Santa Clara County.
15. Leigh High School
Leigh High School serves 1,816 students in grades 9-12 in San Jose. The school ranks within the top 10% of all public schools in California.
U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona recognized Leigh High School as an Exemplary High Performing School. This distinction places it among the top academic performers in the state.
The school earned recognition for excellence in academic performance. It stands among the best available large high schools in California’s public school system.
Leigh High School excels particularly in AP, honors, and college preparatory programs. These advanced academic offerings contribute to its strong statewide ranking.
The school’s performance in standardized assessments supports its top-tier status. Students consistently demonstrate high achievement across multiple academic areas.
16. Wilson Alternative High School
Wilson Alternative School in Santa Clara, California is a public “alternative school of choice” serving grades K-12. It is part of the Santa Clara Unified School District and is located at 1840 Benton Street.
Enrollment is about 158 students, and the school maintains a low student-to-teacher ratio (around 11 to 1), allowing for more individualized attention.
Roughly a fifth of students are English learners. On state assessments, 57% of students are proficient in reading and 42% in math.
The school is considered an option for students who benefit from non-traditional school settings and flexible learning approaches. It is accredited, offers support for learning and attendance improvement, and emphasizes small classes.
Though its GreatSchools rating is low, many community reviews praise the caring nature of the staff and the school’s ability to support students whose needs aren’t well met in more traditional settings.
17. Gunderson High School
Gunderson High School serves grades 9-12 in San Jose with 921 enrolled students. The school operates as part of the San Jose Unified School District.
The campus offers Advanced Placement courses for college-bound students. Student athletes can participate in 32 different sports programs.
Gunderson High is one of 11 high schools within the San Jose Unified School District. The district ranks 796 out of 1,568 districts statewide and holds a 2-star rating from SchoolDigger.
The school is located in Santa Clara County, where public high schools maintain an average graduation rate of 89%. This exceeds California’s statewide average of 87%.
Students at Gunderson High have access to various academic and extracurricular opportunities. The school continues to serve the San Jose community as an established public education option.
18. Evergreen Valley High School
Evergreen Valley High School ranks within the top 10% of all public schools in California. The school serves 2,749 students in grades 9-12 and is located in San Jose.
The school operates within the East Side Union High School District. Students at Evergreen Valley demonstrate strong academic performance based on state testing assessments.
The school maintains active student leadership programs. Students participate in educational policy discussions through organizations like the Santa Clara County Office of Education Youth Advisory Group.
Evergreen Valley High School provides comprehensive educational opportunities for its large student body. The school’s ranking reflects consistent academic achievement and student outcomes.
The campus serves families in the San Jose area seeking quality public education options. Students have access to various academic programs and extracurricular activities.
19. Saint Francis High School
Saint Francis High School ranks within the top 20% of private schools in California. The school serves 1,745 students in grades 9-12 and is located in Mountain View.
This Catholic coeducational institution maintains a strong academic reputation. The school is situated at 1885 Miramonte Ave in Mountain View, within Santa Clara County.
Saint Francis offers comprehensive educational programs for high school students. The school operates as a private religious institution with Catholic affiliation.
The campus provides education in a coeducational environment. Students can contact the school at (650) 968-1213 for admissions and enrollment information.
The school’s location in Mountain View places it in one of California’s notable educational regions. Saint Francis continues to serve families seeking private Catholic education in Santa Clara County.
20. Bellarmine College Preparatory
Bellarmine College Preparatory is an all-boys Catholic high school located in San Jose. The school was founded on May 8, 1851, making it the oldest Jesuit secondary school in California.
The institution serves 1,665 students in grades 9-12. It operates as a private school with religious affiliation to the Catholic Church and Jesuit educational tradition.
Bellarmine ranks within the top 20% of private schools in California. The school is one of 104 private high schools operating in San Jose.
The campus is situated at 960 W Hedding Street in San Jose’s Santa Clara County. As a Jesuit institution, the school emphasizes academic excellence alongside spiritual development.
The all-male environment focuses on intellectual, personal, and spiritual growth for students. Bellarmine maintains its commitment to faith-based education while preparing students for college.
21. Archbishop Mitty High School
Archbishop Mitty High School is a private Catholic institution located in San Jose. The school serves 1,752 students in grades 9-12 at 5000 Mitty Way.
The school ranks within the top 20% of private schools in California. It maintains a student-teacher ratio of 17 to 1, providing focused academic attention.
Archbishop Mitty offers Advanced Placement courses to prepare students for college-level work. The school reports that 96% of graduates attend four-year colleges after graduation.
Annual tuition reaches $22,925 for the highest grade offered. The student body has a minority enrollment of 58.7%, reflecting the diverse Santa Clara Valley community.
The school provides various extracurricular opportunities including national competitions and international immersion trips. Students also participate in social justice advocacy programs as part of their educational experience.
Archbishop Mitty High School is named after John Joseph Mitty, the fourth Archbishop of San Francisco.
22. Harker School
The Harker School stands as one of Santa Clara County’s most prestigious private institutions. Located in San Jose, this college preparatory school serves students from preschool through grade 12.
Harker consistently ranks among the top private schools nationally. The school holds the 7th position for Best High Schools for STEM in America according to 2025 rankings.
The institution ranks 66th in Best Private K-12 Schools in America. It also places 73rd in Best College Prep schools nationwide.
Students at Harker benefit from rigorous academic programs designed for college preparation. The school maintains a nonsectarian, coeducational environment.
Harker’s location at 3800 Blackford Avenue in San Jose places it in the heart of Silicon Valley. This positioning provides students with unique opportunities in technology and innovation fields.
The school’s strong academic reputation makes it a competitive choice for families seeking excellence in education.
23. Presentation High School
Presentation High School is a Catholic college preparatory school serving young women in grades 9-12. The private institution is located on Plummer Avenue in San Jose and enrolls approximately 550 students.
The school ranks within the top 20% of private schools in California. Its educational approach focuses on faith, justice, compassion and academic excellence to prepare students for college.
As an all-female institution, Presentation High School creates an inclusive learning environment. The school emphasizes transformative education rooted in Catholic values.
Students benefit from a college preparatory curriculum designed to inspire positive change. The school’s mission centers on developing young women who will make meaningful contributions to their communities.
Presentation High School operates within Santa Clara County, which maintains some of California’s highest-performing schools. The county’s high schools typically achieve above-average graduation rates compared to state standards.
24. Adrian Wilcox High School
Adrian Wilcox High School, located in Santa Clara, California, is part of the Santa Clara Unified School District and serves students in grades 9 through 12.
With an enrollment of approximately 1,900 students, the school offers a diverse and vibrant academic environment.
The student-teacher ratio is about 23 to 1, and the school provides a wide range of programs, including Advanced Placement courses, career technical education, and extracurricular opportunities in athletics, arts, and clubs.
Wilcox High is well known for its rigorous academics and college preparatory focus, while also supporting students interested in vocational pathways.
The campus features modern facilities and fosters an inclusive environment where students from various cultural and linguistic backgrounds thrive.
The school’s athletic teams, known as the Chargers, are active in local and regional competitions. Adrian Wilcox High remains a cornerstone of education and community engagement in Santa Clara.
25. Gilroy High School
Gilroy High School serves as one of the primary public high schools in the Gilroy Unified School District. The school is located in Gilroy, California, within Santa Clara County.
The school offers traditional high school coursework and programs for students in grades 9-12. Gilroy High School competes with other local schools including Christopher High School within the same district.
Students at Gilroy High School have access to various academic programs and extracurricular activities. The school participates in standardized testing and college preparation programs.
Gilroy High School ranks among the public high schools in Santa Clara County according to various educational ranking systems. The school serves the growing Gilroy community in the southern portion of the county.
The campus provides educational services to families in the Gilroy area seeking public high school options.
26. Calero High School
Calero High School is located in San Jose and serves students in the South San Jose area. The school operates as a smaller learning environment focused on providing personalized educational opportunities.
The school offers a comprehensive college preparatory curriculum that follows California’s A-G requirements. Students can access various academic pathways designed to prepare them for post-secondary education.
Calero High School provides credit recovery programs for students who need additional support. These programs help students stay on track for graduation while maintaining academic standards.
The school emphasizes career pathway opportunities alongside traditional academic coursework. Students can explore different professional fields while completing their high school education.
The campus maintains a nurturing environment that supports student success through individualized attention. This approach allows teachers to work closely with students to address their specific academic needs.
27. Eastside College Preparatory School
Eastside College Preparatory School is a private high school located in East Palo Alto, California. The school serves 258 students in grades 9-12.
The institution focuses on preparing first-generation students from low-income families for four-year college success. This specialized mission sets it apart from traditional high schools in the county.
Students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin are admitted to all programs and activities. The school maintains an inclusive admissions policy.
Eastside College Preparatory School emphasizes college readiness through its curriculum and support systems. The school’s approach targets students who may face additional challenges in accessing higher education.
The campus operates as a college preparatory institution with specific programming designed for its target demographic. Students receive focused academic preparation aimed at four-year college enrollment and success.
28. Pioneer High School
Pioneer High School serves 1,469 students in grades 9-12 in San Jose. The school operates within the San Jose Unified School District and maintains a student-teacher ratio of 22.0 to 1.
The school ranks within the top 30% of all public schools in California. Pioneer High has earned recognition through four California Distinguished School awards in 1996, 2000, 2006, and 2008.
Pioneer High received the Santa Clara County Top Ten High School award. The Mercury News recognized it as a National Service Learning Leader School from 1998 to 2006.
The school achieved an Academic Performance Index score of 801 out of 1000 in 2007. This score placed Pioneer High in the top 20% of California schools at that time.
Pioneer High School is located in Santa Clara County and ranks as the 637th largest public high school in California.
29. Santa Teresa High School
Santa Teresa High School serves 2,181 students in grades 9-12 in San Jose, California. The school operates as part of the East Side Union High School District and opened in 1974.
Located at 6150 Snell Road, Santa Teresa functions as a magnet school offering Advanced Placement courses. The institution ranks within the top 20% of all public schools in California.
The school provides partial virtual instruction, combining traditional classroom learning with online components. This hybrid approach allows students flexibility in their educational experience.
Santa Teresa High School maintains an active status and focuses on traditional education methods. The campus serves the San Jose community with comprehensive high school programming for students preparing for college and career pathways.
30. Valley Christian High School
Valley Christian High School is a private institution located in San Jose, California. The school serves 1,947 students in grades 9-12.
Valley Christian ranks within the top 20% of private schools in California. This ranking reflects the school’s academic performance and educational standards.
The school offers 33 different sports programs for student athletes. This provides extensive opportunities for athletic participation and competition.
Valley Christian includes Project Lead The Way curriculum in its academic offerings. This program focuses on STEM education and engineering concepts.
The school operates as a coeducational institution, serving both male and female students. Valley Christian is one of 104 high schools operating within San Jose.
The campus maintains a religious affiliation as part of its educational mission. Students can contact the school at (408) 513-2492 for additional information about enrollment and programs.
What Makes a High School Stand Out in Santa Clara County
Santa Clara County’s top high schools distinguish themselves through rigorous academic programs that prepare students for competitive colleges, extensive extracurricular activities that develop well-rounded individuals, and comprehensive support systems that address diverse student needs.
Academic Programs and Course Offerings
Outstanding high schools in Santa Clara County offer extensive Advanced Placement (AP) course catalogs. Top institutions provide 20-30 AP courses across subjects like calculus, physics, computer science, and foreign languages.
STEM programs receive particular emphasis given the county’s proximity to Silicon Valley. Schools feature advanced computer science tracks, engineering pathways, and partnerships with local tech companies.
Dual enrollment opportunities allow students to earn college credit. Programs like Early College Academies enable students to complete associate degrees alongside their high school diplomas.
International curricula such as International Baccalaureate (IB) programs attract families seeking globally recognized credentials. These programs emphasize critical thinking and intercultural understanding.
Career Technical Education (CTE) pathways prepare students for immediate workforce entry. Popular tracks include biotechnology, digital media, and healthcare sciences.
Extracurricular Opportunities
Academic competitions dominate extracurricular landscapes at top schools. Teams regularly compete in math olympiads, science fairs, debate tournaments, and robotics competitions at state and national levels.
Performing arts programs feature award-winning orchestras, choirs, and theater productions. Many schools maintain multiple performance ensembles to accommodate different skill levels.
Sports programs offer both traditional and emerging athletics. Successful schools provide options from football and basketball to lacrosse and water polo.
Community service initiatives connect students with local organizations. Many schools require service hours and facilitate partnerships with nonprofits, hospitals, and environmental groups.
Leadership development occurs through student government, peer tutoring programs, and club officer positions.
Student Support Services
College counseling receives significant resources at standout schools. Counselors maintain low student-to-counselor ratios and provide personalized guidance for college applications and scholarship opportunities.
Academic support systems include tutoring centers, study groups, and intervention programs for struggling students. Many schools offer both peer tutoring and professional academic coaching.
Mental health services address student wellness through on-campus counselors, stress management workshops, and peer support networks.
Diversity and inclusion programs create welcoming environments for students from various backgrounds. Schools implement anti-bullying policies and cultural awareness initiatives.
Special education services ensure students with disabilities receive appropriate accommodations and specialized instruction to reach their potential.
Understanding School Performance Metrics
School performance in Santa Clara County is measured through standardized test scores, college preparation programs, and classroom environments. These metrics help parents evaluate academic quality and student outcomes.
Standardized Test Scores and Graduation Rates
California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CASP) serves as the primary testing metric for high schools. Schools report English Language Arts and Mathematics proficiency rates for 11th-grade students.
Top-performing schools in Santa Clara County achieve proficiency rates above 70% in English Language Arts. The county average typically exceeds the state benchmark of 55.73%.
Graduation rates indicate how many students complete their four-year programs on time. High-performing schools maintain graduation rates above 95%.
Schools also report chronic absenteeism rates and suspension data. These metrics reveal student engagement and school climate quality.
College Readiness and Placement
Advanced Placement (AP) participation rates show how many students take college-level courses. Strong schools offer 15-20 AP courses across multiple subjects.
AP pass rates measure students scoring 3 or higher on exams. Top schools achieve pass rates above 80% across all AP subjects.
A-G completion rates track students meeting University of California entrance requirements. Elite schools report A-G completion rates exceeding 90%.
SAT and ACT average scores provide college readiness indicators. High-performing schools report average SAT scores above 1300 and ACT scores above 28.
Student-Teacher Ratios
Class size averages directly impact individual attention and learning outcomes. Optimal ratios range from 18:1 to 22:1 for high school classes.
Teacher qualifications include advanced degrees and subject-area credentials. Strong schools employ teachers with master’s degrees and specialized training.
Support staff ratios encompass counselors, librarians, and specialized instructors. Effective schools maintain one counselor per 250-300 students for adequate college and career guidance.
