Best Public Schools in Compton, CA

The city of Compton, California is home to 36 schools, including 21 elementary schools, 7 middle schools, 5 high schools, and 3 alternative schools. The data reveals stark disparities in academic performance and student outcomes across the district, with a few standout schools like Compton Early College High and Willowbrook Middle significantly outperforming the district and state averages, while many others struggle to meet state standards.

The four-year graduation rates in Compton range from 81.9% at Cesar Chavez Continuation High to 100% at Compton Early College High, with the district-wide average at 93.5%. Dropout rates vary widely, from 0% at Compton Early College High to 18.1% at Cesar Chavez Continuation High, with the district-wide average at 5.3%. Chronic absenteeism is also a significant challenge, ranging from 4.8% at Compton Early College High to 99.8% at Cesar Chavez Continuation High, with the district-wide average at 42.8%.

The data highlights the need for targeted interventions and support to address the systemic inequities and challenges facing many Compton schools and students. Identifying and replicating the practices of the highest-performing schools, such as Compton Early College High and Willowbrook Middle, could provide a roadmap for improvement across the Compton Unified district and its surrounding charter school districts, including Lifeline Education Charter District, KIPP Compton Community District, ISANA Achernar Academy District, and Bridges Preparatory Academy District.