2024 Best Schools for STEM in Orange County

• Newport Coast, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.16 out of 5  102 reviews

Parent: Sage Hill has provided many opportunities for learning and growth for my student. Not only through the faculty who are extremely dedicated to each student's learning, but also through the additional programs available. My son has been able to excel in his sport and add on an additional sport in his off season. He has also expanded his horizons by volunteering at a soup kitchen through the school and making new friends through various school activities. Sage provides a community in which students can confidently thrive in current areas of interest and also try new things. Between the faculty, coaches, advisor, and college counselors, I know my student has lots of people rooting for his growth and success.... Read 102 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 550

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Anaheim, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.58 out of 5  109 reviews

Parent: For generations, Fairmont Academy has been a cornerstone of our family and for good reason. Investing in this institution is an investment with long-term benefits - offering the chance to gain more than just knowledge but also confidence, discipline and poise. Education plays such a key role in success that making sure we give our children the best start possible was paramount; thankfully at Fairmont they are guaranteed quality teaching from experts who know their stuff!... Read 109 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 456

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Fullerton Joint Union High School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.08 out of 5  967 reviews

Senior: I have loved my time at Troy High School these past four years. Even though my sophomore year was Covid, my school has prepared me for everything I can imagine college will possibly be. I have great relationships with my teachers, they are truly in my corner and encouraging me to dream so much farther than I ever was when I started freshman year. I feel challenged in what I am learning but excited about what it to come. and I am a little restless, just ready to get going for what is next after high school. I think my time at Troy really got me ready for that! Troy has been so much fun with clubs and my soccer team and kept things balanced while keeping school going and life got busy. My favorite each year is the halloween rally when our sports teams dance and the pink game each year. Our student body takes over! I am definitely ready for the next chapter of life to start, but I will always love my time in highschool- go warriors!... Read 967 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,614

• Student-teacher ratio 23:1

• Irvine Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  520 reviews

Alum: University High School has a competitive atmosphere that is highly taxing on students' mental and physical health. To begin with, there is a concerning divide between CP and AP classes. On one hand, the AP classes at UHS are ridiculously challenging. For example, UHS's AP physics class crams the content of two AP exams into a single school year, differing from every other school in the district. On the other hand, CP classes lack organization. Therefore students who hope for a constructive learning atmosphere but don't wish to pack their schedules with AP classes will find themselves in an impossible situation.... Read 520 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,097

• Student-teacher ratio 25:1

• Irvine, CA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.42 out of 5  189 reviews

Parent: TVT was tremendously supportive and welcoming as my son transitioned from another school. On the first day, I received an email with a picture of my smiling son and a brief note telling me he's doing great. From that day forward, I can't say enough wonderful things about the administrators, faculty, and all the great school events that brought families onto campus to witness firsthand how our children are learning and growing. My son would tell me he loved his teachers because they were kind and they challenged him every day in all his subjects. Besides math, his other favorite subject is learning Hebrew! They make learning fun! He made new friends quickly and they support each other wholeheartedly. As I attended parent workshops and volunteering opportunities, I was impressed with the advanced curriculum but more importantly, their focus on building great character, addressing the student's emotional needs, and providing a well rounded support system. TVT far exceeded my expectations!... Read 189 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 830

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• San Juan Capistrano, CA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.1 out of 5  58 reviews

Parent: From the moment I walked through the campus , I was impressed with the warm and welcoming atmosphere. The staff and teachers were friendly and approachable, and the students seemed happy and engaged in their learning. The facilities are top-notch. The classrooms are spacious, clean, and equipped with the latest technology to enhance the learning experience. The school also has a well-stocked library, science and computer labs, a gymnasium, and outdoor sports fields. One of the things I appreciate most about SMES is their commitment to student well-being. The school offers a range of programs and services to support the mental health and emotional well-being of its students, including counseling services, and extracurricular activities that promote physical activity and social connection.... Read 58 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,250

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Irvine Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.03 out of 5  563 reviews

Sophomore: great school! i moved here from a city about 30 min away, and i'm definitely not a super extroverted person, so it was a bit hard for me to make friends at first. i'd definitely recommend getting involved somehow, whether it be a sport, club, etc. because my first friends were from a sport! just from my experience the people here are generally nice, and i really like the teachers! i personally think i've been really lucky and gotten almost all amazing teachers for my freshman/sophomore year. they're all super helpful, engaging, and teach well. northwood's definitely also a school that places huge emphasis on mental health and wellbeing because they're aware of campus culture and how competitive it is here, so there are a lot of resources available, and mental health talks are encouraged.... Read 563 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,200

• Student-teacher ratio 25:1

• Irvine, CA•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.5 out of 5  8 reviews

Alum: I am a Pacific Academy alum who graduated with the class of 2021. Thanks to Pacific Academy, I had a wonderful middle and high school experience in which I blossomed into a more confident, responsible, and outgoing version of my younger self. This school is about more than just academics; the teachers build warm relationships with their students because they truly care about them, and the students are encouraged to participate in the many clubs and extracurricular activities that are available. No matter the student's interest, there is almost always a space for them to grow and do what they love. And if not, they can create their own opportunities that pave the way for other students who might also share those interests. The school also fosters collaboration in all areas, from the classroom to sports to club activities. I'm also thankful that I got to make so many close friendships during my time here with a lot of amazing people.... Read 8 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 172

• Student-teacher ratio 4:1

• Anaheim Union High School District, CA•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  669 reviews

Sophomore: The school puts a lot of emphasis on academics and its curriculum is very advanced, but creates a negative school environment. Bullying and school violence is at a minimum, but socially, the school is extremely competitive. So far, there is not much student support to lessen student stress, especially from staff. However, teachers push the kids to learn as much as possible and provides good college preparation; a course focused on college prep is required freshman year. Teachers in all subjects are tough on students but willing to work with students, they are fair with their grading. Most core classes offered are by default honors classes, but if it is not fit for the student, regular courses are also available. The school has low funds but they are in the process of renovating, they have a very modern library and choir/band room. Student run organizations, like ASB, have fun events and keep in touch with students trends, to make events more personalized to the students' interests.... Read 669 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,289

• Student-teacher ratio 25:1

• Irvine Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  503 reviews

Senior: Woodbridge High School offers students with an abundance of resources and support from staff members to give their students a pathway to success. The campus contains many clubs encouraging unity on campus among students and in the local community, through organizations including arts, sports, and religion. Woodbridge's rigorous curriculum prepares students for the academic work and responsibilities in places of higher academia and future careers. Woodbridge High also prioritizes their students well-being/mental health, offering resources for help and guidance both on and outside campus through avenues like the "Hope Squad" and mental health professionals in the counseling center. Woodbridge ensures a positive environment for students of all backgrounds and doesn't tolerate exclusionary behavior, expressing this message through posters in classrooms across campus. The school also ensures safety of their students and staff members through a security team and police officer on campus.... Read 503 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,244

• Student-teacher ratio 22:1

• Irvine Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.83 out of 5  418 reviews

Senior: If you're looking for a school that has a lot of school spirit and a place to experience football season then you're looking at IHS. We have pep rallies that gets everyone excited for the football games on Friday. Cheer, ASB, and student forum help out with creating and setting up the decorations (posters, balloons, IHS sign, lights) around the stadium. We always do chants to encourage the football team, sometimes we throw colored powder in the air (these stain your white shoes so beware), have balloons to just wave around or you can transform it into a hat/animal!... Read 418 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,795

• Student-teacher ratio 23:1

• Garden Grove Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.62 out of 5  672 reviews

Senior: My experience at La Quinta High School was amazing! The best parts of my experience are all the sport support at games and the school spirit. We are known for an academic-heavy school, and the stress when learning at such a competitive school is worst part of my experience. Even though our school is very competitive, the support that I got from my teachers, my counselors, and my friends really help lessen the stress. Overall, my experience at La Quinta was memorable and the 4 years of high school were truly the best years.... Read 672 reviews

• grade A

• Students 2,122

• Student-teacher ratio 25:1

• Irvine Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.27 out of 5  79 reviews

Sophomore: Personally my experience at Portola had been wonderful, they provide multiple resources to help learn my career options and help me pursue them. Additionally I have seen the input teacher put towards helping the students excel in their classes. Although the school had multiple good qualities, some of them are hard to find. One example would be ROP classes, I wasn’t able to take any ROP classes during freshman year. I am taking them now and think it is very beneficial for my career path. I was able to obtain multiple connections with talented and hard-working people! I specifically was able to be taught by a lawyer and a police officer for a while which helped me learn so much about the law helping to pursue my career. Additionally there are multiple opportunities the school gives to help students get jobs to earn income and the support given to those families of lower income. Including the environment around us was so friendly and welcoming truly creating a great learning experience!... Read 79 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,097

• Student-teacher ratio 24:1

• Newport-Mesa Unified School District, CA•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  292 reviews

Parent: Has many opportunities for AP classes. Great PTA, Foundation, and Boosters Club. Has funding and events like a private school, even though it is a public school. Terrible counseling department- actually, not only worthless , but detrimental. Will not help students in signing up for best classes to take. Students/parents have to figure out from outside sources for the ideal classes to take for college resume. Need outside college advice!... Read 292 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,091

• Student-teacher ratio 23:1

• Santa Ana, CA•

• Public School•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 4.16 out of 5  601 reviews

Freshman: I believe that the Orange County School of the Arts (OCSA) is an excellent school. I am in my 3rd year at this school, as a freshman, and there are so many art opportunities for students wanting to pursue any type of art, as well as many academic opportunities such as a vast selection of clubs, honors societies, and volunteering activities. Students make so many great connections in their art field and can make friends with people they are much closer with, due to overlapping passions. Many of the arts teachers are actively working in their fields making them great resources! Overall, OCSA is a great option for any student passionate about art and curious about learning more about art! Although there are some problems with OCSA including safety because of the location, academic teachers because some are not sufficient in teaching, as well as the food since some options can be unhealthy and the menu does not get switched out daily, OCSA has a great positive community that accepts all!... Read 601 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,217

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Tustin Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  782 reviews

Sophomore: My experience at Beckman was undoubtedly challenging because I came from a middle school that most people didn't attend. Although it was very hard making friends, clubs and sports made the transition easier by allowing me to connect with my fellow classmates. The students at Beckman are incredibly studious and academically focused. Although it was hard to keep up, I realized that I thrive in an academically challenging environment because it pushes me to do my best. Lastly, clubs at Beckman were very diverse and gave various opportunities. I led and attended many events that gave me more interests and passions! The teachers were incredibly supportive and did their best to empathize with students and prepare them for their future.... Read 782 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,811

• Student-teacher ratio 27:1

• Laguna Beach Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  155 reviews

Senior: In the past 3 years of high school, I have had a lot of fun and eventful, yet stress-filled days. I was able to find something I was passionate about through the dance program. With this opportunity, I had the chance to perform and develop my own skills. As for academics, I found my teachers to be supportive. They wish the best for their students and do what they can to guide them to success. I also really love the environment surrounding the school. We're close to the beach and a bunch of food places and other shops. There aren't a lot of parts I'd consider "worse", but I would like to see more diversity in our school. Me and a few others experienced forms of microaggressions as Asian-Americans in a majority white community. I hope that in the future, Laguna Beach High School can recognize Asian Heritage Month, etc. However, I've experienced more good than bad and wouldn't let those instances take over my high school experience.... Read 155 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,013

• Student-teacher ratio 19:1

• Capistrano Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  488 reviews

Senior: Overall, Capo Valley High School has been one of the best experiences of my life. Before coming into high school, I was a very shy and anxious person. I was reluctant to socialize and often found myself in the safety of my own room. Going into my freshman and sophomore years, I knew virtually no one and felt isolated because of COVID. However, after the first few months of sophomore year, I started to climb out of my comfort zone and start to put myself out there. Capo has provided me with some of my closest friends and has allowed me to grow as a person. I am now a very outgoing and social person who is involved with the executive board of ASB, NHS, CSF, and Key Club. I have been the captain of the Varsity Volleyball Team since 10th grade and have been on that team since 9th grade. I absolutely love Capo for its welcoming and diverse environment and am super excited for my senior year!... Read 488 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,077

• Student-teacher ratio 23:1

• Irvine, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  185 reviews

Senior: Overall, great school with strong Christian values and focus. Teachers are very kind and willing to help you whenever you need it. Wide variety of classes; many of which are very demanding and homework does get hard sometimes. However, I feel this has prepared me for college more than I would have gotten at another school. Met lots of great people here!... Read 185 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 959

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Rancho Santa Margarita, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.15 out of 5  338 reviews

Parent: Santa Margarita Catholic High School has been such an amazing blessing for our family. They focus on the whole child - developing their mind, faith, heart and body. My children have succeeded academically as they are continually challenged and have learned perseverance and rigor. The school and teachers want the kids to succeed, whether it is teachers with extended office hours or the counselors to offer them guidance. They offer wide range of IB and AP courses allowing them to push themselves and expand their knowledge. Faith is at the core of SM and they integrate Caritas Christi - the love of Christ - into everything they do. Our children have matured into loving, kind and successful humans who I know will do good and be good once they leave SM. Lastly, whether attending a football game events or many of their parent events, SM is just a FUN place to be with an awesome community! It is hands down the best Catholic high school in Orange County!... Read 338 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,746

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Fullerton Joint Union High School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  621 reviews

Alum: The academics and extracurriculars offered there are really quite fantastic. Sunny Hills has a plethora of AP and Honors classes to choose from, as well as a rigorous IB program. There are a wide variety of clubs there, from cultural clubs (such as KCC, Mana, ISA, and Bayanihan) to civic engagement clubs (like Key Club, Link Crew, and MUN) and even academic competition clubs (Science Olympiad, CyberPatriot, and OCAD). The BEST part about Sunny, by far, is the annual International Food Fair. In the spring, the school hosts a festival with hundreds of tables for students to exchange food for tickets at, and these foods represent the cultures of countries around the world! There's also the IFF assembly, in which all the aforementioned cultural clubs get to perform cultural dances and share their significance with the rest of the school. As for the worst part of Sunny, I'd probably say it's the cliques that can form there. If you don't fall into a friend group fast, it's hard to fit in.... Read 621 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,422

• Student-teacher ratio 28:1

• Huntington Beach Union High School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  864 reviews

Senior: During my transformative years at Fountain Valley High School, I had the incredible opportunity to cultivate invaluable experiences that have left an indelible mark on my life. The friendships I fostered during my time at Fountain Valley High School are nothing short of remarkable. From sharing laughter in the cafeteria to collaborating on group projects that challenged our intellect, I found a tribe of like-minded individuals who not only shared my academic pursuits but also became my confidants and pillars of support. As a young mind brimming with curiosity and ambition, Fountain Valley High School provided the ideal canvas for me to explore my passion for engineering. The dedicated educators and well-equipped laboratories empowered me to delve into the realms of mathematics, physics, and design, allowing my creativity to flourish.... Read 864 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 3,286

• Student-teacher ratio 27:1

• Santa Ana, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.17 out of 5  583 reviews

Alum: I was the first of my family to attend Mater Dei and I fell in love with the school. I made so many great memories from the football games to the amazing friends I made. I thought the classes prepared me for college tremendously and made it very easy to transition into college. Although, the tuition is expensive I think every penny was worth it. The teachers were amazing and always made the subjects fun and exciting to learn about. I think the opportunities I received by being a Mater Dei Alumni also made the high school worth it. When you become a Monarch you will always be a Monarch and everyone in that community is aware of that. You are not only joining a school, you are joining a great big family! Go Monarchs!... Read 583 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,159

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• Anaheim, CA•

• Private School•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  9 reviews

Alum: This school has a great diversity of its student body and teachers. Being a Christian school, there's a Bible period each day and worship session each week for students to learn and develop a relationship with God. The teachers here care deeply about their students and maintain relationships with them even after they have graduated.... Read 9 reviews

• grade B

• Students 126

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Fullerton, CA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.56 out of 5  9 reviews

Middle School Student: I attended Veritas Classical Academy from 2013 to 2016, after coming to the US with my family and father, who attended college here to get a second degree. Back then, I was inexperienced in most aspects, especially English and in developing relationships with other people. Veritas was still a very small school when I attended, and their method of letting both young and old students mingle, and interact with each other was such a shock and very different from what I experienced in Korea. And yet, the method seems to have worked perfectly; I was surprised to find out that bullying and violence was common in most middle-and-high-schools, since I'd never experienced anything of the sort at Veritas. I thought all American schools were that nice! Overall, attending Veritas was a real blessing in my life, because it allowed me to get a good education, which allowed me to open my eyes to the world, think a tier above "other kids", and follow God. I recommend it. I look forward to its future.... Read 9 reviews

• grade A

• Students 116

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1