Best Public Schools in Santa Rosa, CA

The city of Santa Rosa, California is home to 63 schools, including 43 elementary schools, 7 middle schools, 6 high schools, and 7 alternative schools. The data reveals significant disparities in academic performance, graduation rates, and other key metrics between the highest and lowest-performing schools in the district.

Among the standout schools, Maria Carrillo High School consistently ranks among the top 300 high schools in California, with high test scores, graduation rates, and a 4-5 star rating. Austin Creek Elementary is also a top performer, ranking in the top 200 elementary schools in the state with exceptionally high proficiency rates. In contrast, Elsie Allen High has a low 4-year graduation rate of 66.3% and a high dropout rate of 25.1%.

The data suggests a strong correlation between socioeconomic status, as measured by free/reduced lunch rates, and academic outcomes. Schools with the highest poverty rates tend to have the lowest test scores and graduation rates. Additionally, charter schools in the district, such as Roseland Charter, generally outperform the traditional public schools on many metrics. Addressing these equity challenges and providing targeted support to the lowest-performing schools should be a priority for the Santa Rosa school district.