Best Public Schools in Palmdale, CA

The city of Palmdale, California is home to 44 schools, including 31 elementary schools, 6 middle schools, 4 high schools, and 3 alternative schools. The data reveals a stark contrast in performance between the highest and lowest-performing schools in the area, suggesting significant inequities in educational opportunities and resources within the Palmdale school district.

A few standout schools include Palmdale Aerospace Academy, a public charter school with an impressive 93.8% four-year graduation rate and only a 5.7% dropout rate, significantly outperforming the district and state averages. Another high-performing elementary school is Gregg Anderson Academy, which ranks in the top 10% of California elementary schools with 65-75% of students proficient or better in English Language Arts and Mathematics. Cottonwood Elementary is also a top-performing school, with over 60% of students proficient or better in core subjects, placing it in the top 25% of California elementary schools.

In contrast, schools like Palmdale High and R. Rex Parris High lag significantly behind state averages, despite serving a large number of students. The high chronic absenteeism rates at several schools, particularly the high schools, are also concerning and likely contribute to the lower graduation and higher dropout rates observed. The data highlights the need for a comprehensive, equity-focused approach to improving educational quality and outcomes across the Palmdale Elementary and Antelope Valley Union High school districts.