San Marino High School ranks top in California academics

In a recent government meeting, educational leaders highlighted significant achievements and ongoing challenges within the district's schools. The discussion began with a report on student engagement with math resources, noting that students are utilizing these tools effectively, albeit for limited periods. The introduction of three new math teachers, along with hires in English, science, and social science, was also celebrated, bringing fresh enthusiasm and practices to the educational team.

The meeting also showcased impressive academic performance metrics, with nearly 95% of students meeting or exceeding standards in English Language Arts (ELA) and 87% in math. These figures represent an increase from the previous year, positioning the district favorably against local and state averages. Notably, San Marino High School ranked 10th in ELA and 5th in math among over 31,000 public high schools in California, with claims of being the top comprehensive high school in the state when excluding application-only institutions.

Despite these successes, concerns were raised regarding stagnant scores in the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAST) for science. Leaders acknowledged the need for improvement, especially given the district's strong performance in Advanced Placement (AP) science courses. Plans to address these challenges were hinted at, with a commitment to enhance science education and ensure that students excel across all subjects.

Overall, the meeting underscored a blend of commendable achievements and a proactive approach to addressing areas needing improvement, reflecting the district's commitment to educational excellence.