Top 5 Ranked Public High Schools in Irvine
Irvine is known for top-ranking schools, but each one is specially unique in their prestige. Read about each one.
If there is one thing that the city of Irvine is renowned for, other than its immaculate and nearly scot-free safety ranking, is the quality of education that it boasts. Ranging from elementary schools, all the way up to higher-level university education, Irvine schools are known for the top-notch schooling.
When it comes to the high schools in Irvine, there is no question of their academic prowess, opportunities afforded to students, and curriculum that exceeds expectations for college preparedness. In addition to these factors, Irvine’s high schools provide a safe, nurturing, and overall positive experience where students learn the foundations of becoming well-rounded adults. All-in-all, it would be hard to find a better city for your high school age child, regardless of the specific school they end up attending. Here are the five Irvine high schools, listed by their overall rank:
1. Northwood High School
Nestled within the hills in the northernmost part of Irvine, Northwood High School (NHS) has climbed the ranks of high schools around the country. NHS is renowned for their high level of student proficiency in math and reading, and premier quality teachers that work closely with students to ensure success.
In 2016, Newsweek ranked Northwood at #25 among top public high schools around the country. A large number of NHS students are accepted into prestigious universities each year, including Stanford, UCLA and other UC campuses, and a range of Ivy League institutions.
Ranking in CA: #6 of 1,774
# of Students: 2,240
Student-Teacher Ratio: 28:1
Reading Proficiency: 85%
Math Proficiency: 81%
Avg. Graduation Rate: 98%
2) University High School
Located on the opposite end of Irvine, direct neighbors with the esteemed University of California at Irvine, University High School (UHS or ‘Uni’) is another top-tier institution. UHS is not only known for their college preparedness curriculum, but also the broad range of extra-curricular opportunities for students.
Those attending University High School can choose from an astounding 24 athletic teams offered at the school, such as their prominent tennis team, as well as an array of highly regarded performing arts groups. The Uni symphonic orchestra, marching band, and colorguard, are just a few groups that consistently rank in the top-tier at national competitions.
Ranking in CA: #26 of 1,774
# of Students: 2,617
Student-Teacher Ratio: 28:1
Reading Proficiency: 78%
Math Proficiency: 73%
Avg. Graduation Rate: 96%
3) Arnold O. Beckman High School
One of the newer high schools in Irvine, Beckman High School (BHS) has quickly become an example of Irvine expectations of education. Although a part of the Tustin Unified School District, BHS is located on the Irvine side, near the border of the two cities.
Beckman High School is known for their musical arts and band prestige, having won various acclaim and rewards over recent years. In 2008 and 2015, the Patriot Marching Band was invited to the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade in Washington DC, as well as performing in San Francisco and Sacramento in 2012. BHS has also sent numerous alumni to perform in international groups that have played in places such as Paris, and Carnegie Hall in New York.
Ranking in CA: #45 of 1,774
# of Students: 2,847
Student-Teacher Ratio: 28:1
Reading Proficiency: 83%
Math Proficiency: 66%
Avg. Graduation Rate: 98%
4) Woodbridge High School
Located in the centrally-positioned community of Woodbridge in Irvine, Woodbridge High School (WHS) is renowned for exposing students to a diversity of programs, and preparing them for their college careers.
WHS’s academic teams are among the top in the county and state. The Academic Decathlon team at Woodbridge has won numerous awards in the California Academic Decathlon, and has ranked in the top ten amongst all state schools over the last decade.
Ranking in CA: #49 of 1,774
# of Students: 2,447
Student-Teacher Ratio: 27:1
Reading Proficiency: 69%
Math Proficiency: 79%
Avg. Graduation Rate: 97%
5) Irvine High School
Irvine High School (IHS) has long been known for their ability to prepare students for higher level education, and for having a comprehensive curriculum that challenges students. The school is located in between the Woodbridge and Northwood communities, nearby the iconic Heritage Park. Despite being ranked last among high schools in Irvine, IHS is regarded for their distinguished academic teams, and extra-curricular benefits they provide to students.
In 2014, the school’s newspaper, El Vaquero, received first prize for best high school news publication, and continues to be lauded as the number one high school newspaper in the country.
Ranking in CA: #69 of 1,774
# of Students: 2,031
Student-Teacher Ratio: 28:1
Reading Proficiency: 77%
Math Proficiency: 65%
Avg. Graduation Rate: 96%
