2024 Best Public High Schools in Contra Costa County

• Acalanes Union High School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.01 out of 5  293 reviews

Senior: I would recommend this school to anyone I meet. The academics are definitely top notch, but so are the athletics! Everyone is super friendly and there is a great sense of community. The teachers and staff are all very approachable and the Wellness Center staff are super nice and helpful for anything you might need. The cafeteria food is pretty good most days (sometimes they replace items temporarily and it's not as great), but over all, considering everything is free, it's good. The facilities are very good and the school amazingly is able to provide every student with a computer if they do not have one.... Read 293 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,341

• Student-teacher ratio 19:1

• Acalanes Union High School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.95 out of 5  231 reviews

Senior: Throughout my life, I have attended 18 public schools in California, including Miramonte High School. When I began my sophomore year I expected it to be just another school, to have an experience that lacked unique individuals and events to really make me WANT to be there. But within the last 2 years I have grown to love this school. As well as that, my expectation has been more than proven wrong. I was greeted by students with intricate, and interesting, lives. These students were, and continue to be, ready to seize the day. I have never spent so much time amongst such driven characters that truly put their lives into their school. The same goes for the staff members. I grew up with very limited role models, but the second I entered this campus that was changed with John Grigsby, my Human & Social Development teacher, and Matt Sweeney, my US History teacher, who redirected my understanding of public education by paying attention to their students on a level I didn’t know was possible.... Read 231 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,183

• Student-teacher ratio 19:1

• San Ramon Valley Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  731 reviews

Junior: My experience has been nothing short of exceptional. The academic environment at the school is known for its competitiveness and challenge, fostering an atmosphere that pushes students to reach their full potential. The rigorous curriculum and high academic standards have undoubtedly prepared me well for future endeavors. What sets us apart is the incredible sense of community and support among students and faculty. There is a palpable camaraderie among students, creating a supportive network where mutual growth thrive is combined with the unwavering dedication of the faculty members that go above and beyond to ensure that every student receives the support they need to excel. From personalized attention in the classroom to after-school office hours, the teachers are willing to provide guidance and assistance. I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of such a dynamic and nurturing educational environment, where both academic success and the well-being of students are prioritized.... Read 731 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 3,340

• Student-teacher ratio 25:1

• San Ramon Valley Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  313 reviews

Senior: I loved my time at Monte Vista! The teachers were amazing, and always ready to help, and the clubs and activities made every day exciting. The challenging classes got me ready for college. The workload was tough for some, and it wouldn't hurt to have better counseling services. Also, a bit more communication from the administration would be nice. Despite that, the sense of community and the overall positive vibe at Monte Vista made it an awesome place to learn and grow!... Read 313 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,305

• Student-teacher ratio 23:1

• West Contra Costa Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  188 reviews

Senior: Ever since the 6th grade, upon hearing about Middle College High School, some part of me knew that I wanted to attend the school. Once I was in the 8th grade, my middle school was nearby, and my counselor told me more about Middle College, so I decided to apply. Applying was one of the best decisions I made, as I was able to get first-hand experience taking college classes while earning credits towards an Associate's degree while simultaneously getting my high school diploma. All the staff works towards and ensures the students success at and beyond the school. At the same time, always offering different resources ensures that once a student graduates, there will be success in the path they choose.... Read 188 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 294

• Student-teacher ratio 29:1

• Acalanes Union High School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  202 reviews

Senior: I liked almost everything about Acalanes. Aside from the occasional bad experience with a teacher or course, the classes were great. I was able to take a lot of advanced courses that I loved, as well as choose from a wide variety of electives. This made my experience a lot more enjoyable. I also appreciate that the school is working to integrate equity and diversity into the curriculum. They have done equity lessons, and have an ethnic studies course, which will soon be required to graduate. Overall, the teachers at Acalanes are really great. I have close relationships with multiple teachers, and they are usually supportive and accommodating. Acalanes also has a really wide variety of clubs, which really co tributes to campus culture. I personally am president of a club, and it is a lot of fun to run.... Read 202 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,274

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• Acalanes Union High School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  286 reviews

Junior: The teachers and admin are genuinely kind, patient, and helpful! They go above and beyond to ensure every student feels welcomed, supported, and encouraged. Their dedication to helping students achieve their full potential is admirable! Secondly, the academic rigor + emphasis on learning are truly impressive, and the community service opportunities available to students are second to none; I appreciate how much the school values community involvement + encourages students to give back! Additionally, I want to highlight the diversity and multiculturalism at LL! I appreciate how the school celebrates and embraces differences and promotes an inclusive environment where every student feels valued and respected! Finally, the abundance of extracurricular activities at LL is remarkable, from DEI/affinity organizations to sports teams to debate clubs! LL provides students with many opportunities to explore their interests, develop new skills, and make lasting friendships!... Read 286 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,578

• Student-teacher ratio 19:1

• San Ramon Valley Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  642 reviews

Senior: Great diversity, academics, faculty, and campus. The Bay Area is very diverse and Cal High reflects this diversity. Clubs at California High School are high achieving and extremely well developed. There are many teachers who have impacted my academic life and furthered my enthusiasm for and love of learning. The campus is relatively clean and feels safe. The facilities are very accommodating and useful. However, the counseling department, especially college counseling department, could be improved. There are also a few teachers who are very unpopular amongst students–for good reason. The library at this school is one of my favorite facilities, with extremely helpful staff and great resources. The book selection is wide and extensive and the computer usage is extremely helpful. All in all, California High School has a diverse student body, has strong school spirit, strong academics and sports, has great programs, and is a great school!... Read 642 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,814

• Student-teacher ratio 24:1

• Liberty Union High School District (Brentwood), CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  575 reviews

Senior: I absolutely adore the school I'm in. It's not just a place of education but a community where I've found my niche. One of my most cherished activities is involved in ASB Leadership, a class that's all about developing my own leadership skills while giving back to the community through volunteering and preparing school activities that represent spirit. It's taught me a true demonstration of leadership and my joy that comes from helping others and supporting the school spirit. Another great role I play is in Link Crew, where we guide incoming freshmen through the transition to high school, making them feel welcomed and comfortable. It's fantastic to witness their growth and confidence over time. The chance to contribute to that in so many meaningful ways really strikes deep. In school, I hope for more opportunities to create connections and friendship, and through Link Crew and ASB, I'm actively working to create those chances, either with activities, games, rallies, or any other means.... Read 575 reviews

• grade A

• Students 2,618

• Student-teacher ratio 23:1

• Mt. Diablo Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.57 out of 5  252 reviews

Senior: Northgate is a school with its problems, like any other school, however overall the utmost dedication shown by some of the staff makes up for many of its glaring flaws. The passion shown by stand out members of the staff, specifically in the social science and science departments, make the school what it is, an environment meant to facilitate true growth and development for its students. If a student comes with an open mind, many of the teachers will go the extra mile for them to grow into the best student possible. Standouts from the staff include, but are not limited to, Christine Reimer, Jon Burchett, Jennifer Krnich, Kyong Landry, Corinne Starr, and many more. I may have my fair share of complaints about certain aspects of the school but nothing can ever replace the mentorship and lifelong lessons I've from these educators.... Read 252 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,496

• Student-teacher ratio 23:1

• Concord, CA•

• Public School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  207 reviews

Senior: This school is not the best around, but it does its job. My teachers were great, but I hear about many terrible teachers and how many do not even want to teach or give more work than their coworkers! I do not see much investment in the students and too much placed into sports over academics. Many programs and ways to run the school that made this school unique are going away. The students get worse each year, and the bathrooms are deplorable, as expected. The school needs a fundamental rework, and the administrators must be educated on what teenagers want. Mandatory office hours are the most egregious example. In a survey conducted by the school, we students voiced that we did not like office hours, yet they used data from other schools to rationalize keeping it. However, it doesn't work for us. They want to "teach" us more for more money from the state/government.... Read 207 reviews

• grade A

• Students 2,346

• Student-teacher ratio 26:1

• San Ramon Valley Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  373 reviews

Alum: Pretty much all of the teachers are great and will take the time to help you if you need it. While I was at the school they were building a new building which meant that I was in portables for a few years which was less than to be desired but not terrible. Thankfully, I was able to have some classes in the new building for my senior year which was very nice. One of the nicest things about the school is it's location right next to downtown Danville which makes it easy to go get food after school or hang out with friends. If I had to see one thing changed it would be the bathrooms as there was always something broken in them or they were always very dirty or gross. I think kids definitely had a role to play in this but a lot of the times if something was broken it would take a long time to get fixed.... Read 373 reviews

• grade A

• Students 2,043

• Student-teacher ratio 24:1

• Antioch Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  329 reviews

Senior: The school is pretty small so all students are known by the teachers which creates a great environment. There are frequent activities during the school day to participate in and the teachers make school fun. The best part is the sports medicine class which allows you to shadow an athletic trainer on the football field during games. During these games you get to tape athletes and help with injuries which is very interesting. The worst part is the chemistry teacher. Anybody who wants to learn anything about chemistry will be disappointed, the teacher never teaches because she is too busy with leadership and is always stressed.... Read 329 reviews

• grade A

• Students 733

• Student-teacher ratio 25:1

• San Ramon Valley Unified School District, CA•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.24 out of 5  17 reviews

Alum: I am genuinely so grateful for my experience at Venture. Venture was perfect for someone like me, who struggled with mental health but had a sport that kept me motivated. I was able to spend the necessary time at school to check in with my teachers and plenty of time for my sport. They are flexible but genuinely care about the students. I loved all my teachers, and they wanted to know how I was doing. I was able to thrive in this environment, and I was able to understand everything asked. If I had a question, my teachers would always help. I don't know what I would've done if I hadn't transferred to venture; I was struggling so much that I couldn't attend school in person without being extremely overwhelmed and panicked. I'm now at a great university and advancing in my education, and I also had all the support I needed from the counselor at the venture.... Read 17 reviews

• grade A

• Students 864

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Acalanes Union High School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  6 reviews

Senior: Independent study is definitely not for everyone and can get overwhelming if you do not stay on top of your work, but for me, it gave me freedom I never had at public school. I have a lot of health issues and have to miss a lot of school days, which is what made me switch to independent study. It was definitely the right decision for me.... Read 6 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 53

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Liberty Union High School District (Brentwood), CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  468 reviews

Alum: I love that there were so many clubs and activities that each person could get connected too. From Chess clubs and meetings to sports year round. I played volleyball and was apart of Playmakers, the theatre club, up until Covid. Regarding the staff and admin, I am lucky to say that I had great relationships with over 50% of my teachers and still go back to visit them to this day. They are so open and cater to what you want your high school experience to be.... Read 468 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 2,779

• Student-teacher ratio 22:1

• Martinez Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  190 reviews

Senior: Throughout my experience at Alhambra, I had the luxury of being support by staff and admin to make sure that I do my best in school by getting the resources that I need to accommodate for certain disabilities. They have an excellent team that cares about the safety and well-being of student on campus and create a fun, safe, and successful environment. Over the years, they have introduced different classes that are useful real-world situations, one being a financial math class that I had the pleasure of taking by an excellent math teacher. The school community is not very diverse but has become more diverse than before but still maintains a very close community despite situations that do tend to occur every once and a while. The students are the main issue more than anything being that they always cause issues, but the staff, teachers, and administrators do their best and always work on improving life on campus.... Read 190 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 1,163

• Student-teacher ratio 20:1

• Mt. Diablo Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.53 out of 5  356 reviews

Senior: College Park High School is a very good school compared to the other schools in the MDUSD district. There are a lot of maintenance problems within the school but luckily most of the students at the school are used to this from their prior middle school for it not to be too big of a deal. I personally am mostly involved in our school through its athletics, which we are pretty good at as a school. Overall I've had a pretty good experience at College Park and I can't think of a high school I'd rather attend for 4 years.... Read 356 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 1,973

• Student-teacher ratio 25:1

• Mt. Diablo Unified School District, CA•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.42 out of 5  19 reviews

Senior: Horizons Center for Independent Study gives the students the opportunity to learn independence. It teaches the students how to manage their time and work without having to be told.... Read 19 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 531

• Student-teacher ratio 20:1

• John Swett Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  87 reviews

Senior: For my freshman year, I didn't go to school due to COVID but for the past years I think John Swett High school is well diverse school. It's very small school yet everyone knows each which is great. It is also fun to be there and you'll never get bored.... Read 87 reviews

• grade B+

• Students 375

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Walnut Creek, CA•

• Public School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  8 reviews

Alum: I graduated from Contra Costa School of Performing Arts about a year ago and it was a pleasant school to be in. There were many opportunities given to students to perform in their major. The teachers that taught there were very passionate about their work and there were many talented people I got to work with and the whole experience was very enriching. One thing that can be improved is the academic system, it was easy for some students to fall behind easily and the school issued Chromebooks can be too restrictive to the point where finding resources for projects and general learning was rather difficult to come by. Other than that issue, I can definitely say I've enjoyed my time there.... Read 8 reviews

• grade B+

• Students 440

• Student-teacher ratio 19:1

• West Contra Costa Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  306 reviews

Senior: Last year was my first year at ECHS and I had shifted from a different country and I was genuinely very nervous and was scared regarding how life would be studying in a different school, I was worried about bullying ,making friends and pretty much how my overall experience would be. And ECHS has honestly helped me so much in that, all the teachers and staff that I have met are so sweet and willing to do thier best in order to help you fit in. It was hard the first few months and I knew I could always rely on the school resources such as the JMP and counseling. ECHS has created a community adhering to everyone's needs and they never fail to expand thier diversity through the form of student clubs and associations enabling everyone to feel heard and safe. I am proud to be a gaucho! And forever will be one. Go Gauchos Go World!... Read 306 reviews

• grade B+

• Students 1,570

• Student-teacher ratio 23:1

• Mt. Diablo Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  281 reviews

Sophomore: Concord High is a pretty good school with a large variety of students. It’s very diverse and accepting. With lots of students comes lots of trash. Trash is probably one of the biggest issues here at Concord High, but there is motive to solve the issue. School spirit leans more to the non existent side and it’s currently a work in progress. Being in leadership we try and find new ways to keep our student body engaged and wanting to have fun. I would want to see the student body get along more. Everyone has their own groups and I feel this is the root reason school spirit is so low. Nobody is comfortable enough to look silly for a simply spirit day. When it comes to academics and extracurriculars there’s a pretty wide variety of things to choose. We have pretty good sports, musical, and art programs. We aren’t the best in sports however, our band program is one of the best in the bay. There are many clubs people can join and even have the option to start whatever club they choose.... Read 281 reviews

• grade B+

• Students 1,167

• Student-teacher ratio 20:1

• San Ramon Valley Unified School District, CA•

• 7-12

• grade B+

• Students 12

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Antioch Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.35 out of 5  526 reviews

Senior: Deer Valley High School doesn't have a great reputation, but overall is a great school. I've learned many life lessons and continue make new friends. I love and grew close to my teachers, and I'm not afraid to ask for help. Deer Valley offers many clubs, sports, scholarship clubs, college knowledge, and tutoring from the teacher you have or counselors that volunteer to help you. The campus is also very diverse. The college advisors have given me support since I was a freshman. As a first-generation college student, I wasn't told where to apply or what to do for college. I also was given continuous opportunities for scholarships, trips to colleges, and college knowledge in general. They helped through the college application process and financial aid. For that I'm extremely thankful. Over the years, more security has been added and students aren't allowed to leave campus during school hours unless they have off campus. Overall, Deer Valley is a great school.... Read 526 reviews

• grade B+

• Students 1,736

• Student-teacher ratio 21:1