What makes this achievement so remarkable is the comprehensive and rigorous nature of the ranking methodology. U.S. News evaluates nearly 18,000 public high schools across the country based on multiple objective measures, including college readiness, the breadth of Advanced Placement course offerings, performance on state assessments, and graduation rates. La Cañada High School's total enrollment of 1,351 students, 99% graduation rate, and 70% of students passing at least one AP exam are a testament to the school's academic excellence.
When examining the rankings more closely, it becomes clear that La Cañada High School's accomplishments are even more impressive. Many of the top-ranked schools in the Los Angeles metro area are not comprehensive high schools with open enrollment, but rather specialized programs or schools with selective admissions processes. In fact, 5 of the top 8 high schools in the LA area fall into this category. This means that when comparing apples to apples – open-enrollment comprehensive high schools – LCHS remains the number one general admission high school in the Los Angeles area, and number eight in the state.
Superintendent Wendy Sinnette announced the news to the LCUSD faculty and staff. "We are immensely proud of all the incredible schools, talented educators, and dedicated staff within the La Cañada Unified School District. However, the recognition earned by La Cañada High School 9-12 in the prestigious U.S. News & World Report rankings is truly deserving of special commendation," said the LCUSD superintendent.
"While this national ranking is just one measure we use to assess our progress, it carries significant weight and visibility. On behalf of the entire district, I want to extend our heartfelt congratulations to the students, teachers, and administrators of La Cañada High School 9-12 for this outstanding achievement. Your unwavering commitment to academic excellence has once again placed your school among the very best in the region and the nation."
More details can be found at: https://www.usnews.com/education/best-high-schools/california/districts/la-canada-unified-school-district/la-canada-high-school-2421