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2020 Best School Districts for Athletes in CaliforniaAbout this List

Explore school districts with the best sports programs in your area. Ranking based on student and parent reviews of athletics, student participation in athletics, and the number of sports offered at the school. Compare the best school districts for sports in your state. Read more on how this ranking was calculated.

1 – 25 of 487
Best for Athletes
487 results

  1. San Marcos Unified School District

    • School District
    • San Marcos, CA
    • 85 reviews
    #1 Best School Districts for Athletes in California

    Senior: My experience from the San Macros school District since Elementary School is that we do have excellent teachers that help students with their learning disabilities and want to help them improve. From other school districts that I have gone to, the San Marcos school district payed more attention to my learning disabilities than the other previous districts. One thing that I believe the San Marcos District could improve on their food selection and making sure that students are having foods with less preservatives.
    Read 85 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Sports
    • 20 Total Schools
    • 20,970 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  2. Murrieta Valley Unified School District

    • School District
    • Murrieta, CA
    • 78 reviews
    #2 Best School Districts for Athletes in California

    Senior: As I am finishing up High School I can say that I am very experienced with how the school system here in Murrieta CA. Currently, I am a incoming senior and through the past three years I’ve been involved with many sports, clubs, leadership and other officer opportunities. While being involved, I noticed how widely the school district cares for all the extracurricular activities. We’re big on fundraising, providing the best materials, coaches, instructors, educators and well run facilities to reach our full potential. I have been lucky to have felt acknowledged in anything I have participated no matter where I stood. During my senior year, I plan on continuing leadership roles at my school meanwhile taking advantage of the rigid education that our educators have agreed to give us. I think many of the students can say that our district has very well rounded schools.
    Read 78 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Sports
    • 19 Total Schools
    • 22,914 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  3. Acalanes Union High School District

    • School District
    • Lafayette, CA
    • 15 reviews
    #3 Best School Districts for Athletes in California

    Senior: My experience as a student at Acalanes High School is nothing but great. I have met great friends that have added to great memories at Acalanes. My favorite memory as a student is the homecoming spirit rally. Each grade competes against each other by doing a skit and whoever wins, wins the spirit cup. My 2018 class won both junior and senior year. Another great memory will be the football games. It was a place to cheer on our friends and being surrounded by schoolmates that were as spirited as you were. Not only were the school activities great, but so is the amazing staff. They want to see their students succeed and learn something from the class that we can put into our everyday lives. I wouldn't change a thing about my school. Go Dons!
    Read 15 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Sports
    • 5 Total Schools
    • 5,502 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  4. Val Verde Unified School District

    • School District
    • Perris, CA
    • 83 reviews
    #4 Best School Districts for Athletes in California

    Senior: My experience in the Val Verde Unified School District was bitter sweet. Quite complex but the challenge is worth it. Theres plenty oppurtunites to excel and exceed as a student that the district offers; even for future references. They have prepared me for real life scenarios to certain extent, as much as they possibly can. Me being a senior, I wish I took advantage of the different oppurtunities Val Verde offered throughout my hghschool years. Overall, this School District is 5 star.
    Read 83 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Sports
    • 23 Total Schools
    • 19,911 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  5. Placer Union High School District

    • School District
    • Auburn, CA
    • 17 reviews
    #5 Best School Districts for Athletes in California

    Alum: I am a college freshman who graduated from Placer High School. The student to student culture of the school was very good. There was rarely any major instances, however; the coach to student culture was very poor. The football head coach and the soccer head coach (now assistant coach) have a very poor process for picking players for the team and who gets playing time. The head coach and booster president had restraining order put against them in 2016 for abuse to a player. On a more positive note most of the teachers there care about the students and preparing them for college. The biggest program lacking college readiness is the agriculture science department. This is not because of the intent of the class but the lack of curriculum and lack of professionalism by the instructor. Would I send my children to placer in the future? If they love agriculture as much as I do then no because of the agriculture science department, however; if they do not them yes I would.
    Read 17 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Sports
    • 6 Total Schools
    • 4,054 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  6. Grossmont Union High School District

    • School District
    • El Cajon, CA
    • 130 reviews
    #6 Best School Districts for Athletes in California

    Senior: I love that they keep everyone informed with a monthly newsletter!
    It is a great district with high test scores and great exit exam scores! The schools really know how to prepare the students for college!
    They have diverse communities and the students are very well rounded in all areas including academics, athletics, leadership, clubs and more!
    I wish that they had more classes or activities in the arts, such as dance, theatre and music.
    GUHSD is a great district with great board members that are doing great things for our communities.
    Read 130 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Sports
    • 17 Total Schools
    • 21,709 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  9. San Dieguito Union High School District

    • School District
    • Encinitas, CA
    • 59 reviews
    #7 Best School Districts for Athletes in California

    Senior: I went to San Dieguito Academy and I love the atmosphere on campus! The students are very welcoming and supportive of their classmates and although we do not have a football team, students still go to sporting events and cheer on the mustangs. The only problem i’ve ever had at school was when I was diagnosed with a concussion. Many of my teachers refused to accept my work late once I was cleared to participate in class. This obviously took a toll on my grades which has affected my chances of getting into college.
    Read 59 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Sports
    • 10 Total Schools
    • 12,914 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  10. Poway Unified School District

    • School District
    • San Diego, CA
    • 98 reviews
    #8 Best School Districts for Athletes in California

    Freshman: Poway Unified School District is truly the best district I have experienced. They care very much about their students and award them throughout the year for their excellence. They maintain a good atmosphere for us students and prepare us for our future college plans through CMP and CPM. Poway Unified School District ensures our safety through their multiple and friendly yard - duties. They give students multiple opportunities throughout their TA Administration, Facilities, and Clubs & Activities. They give us a chance to celebrate throughout the school assemblies and events such as the Turkey Trot and End of the Year assembly. The District also gives exceptional sports preparation such as Intramural Sports. They provide our equipment on and off the field. The classrooms have a wonderful atmosphere and are well - supplied with book shelves and unit lessons. All in all, the Poway Unified School District is by far the best district I have had the honor to be a part of!
    Read 98 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Sports
    • 38 Total Schools
    • 35,872 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  11. Clovis Unified School District

    • School District
    • Clovis, CA
    • 150 reviews
    #9 Best School Districts for Athletes in California

    Senior: Clovis Unified is ranked towards the top in high quality school districts, and it is easy to see why. With up-to-date technology and a future-focused staff, what's not to love? Sure, every districts has its shortcomings, but CUSD places a strong emphasis on encouraging its students to excel both in high school and afterwards, and the staff's loving efforts have made notable contributions to the success of their students. Clovis Unified values tradition and responsibility, and because of the love and care they give those who attend CUSD schools, alumni are proud of their experience in education, and many stay in Clovis solely to send their children to the same schools. You can't go wrong with any Clovis Unified school, each one is full of optimism and hope for the future, which I guarantee will rub off on the students who attend!
    Read 150 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Sports
    • 48 Total Schools
    • 42,746 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  12. Folsom-Cordova Unified School District

    • School District
    • Rancho Cordova, CA
    • 25 reviews
    #10 Best School Districts for Athletes in California

    Junior: Folsom High is a school unlike any other. Our campus is quite large, like one of a Junior College. We take pride in our school and are deeply committed to our academics and sports. We love our blue football field, highly intelligent teachers and wonderful peers! Being a bulldog is more than just being a student; It's being home where you belong surrounded by people you love.
    Read 25 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Sports
    • 34 Total Schools
    • 20,267 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  13. Conejo Valley Unified School District

    • School District
    • Thousand Oaks, CA
    • 30 reviews
    #11 Best School Districts for Athletes in California

    Senior: I enjoy attending Thousand Oaks High School because the surrounding environment is welcoming and there are many diverse clubs and sports that offer school involvement for every type of student and are a gateway to making friendships and amicable relationships with teachers. The school also offers a variety of classes with different difficulty levels which I, personally, have taken advantage of in order to prepare myself for college. There are programs, such as the Health Science Majors, which allow students to learn more about the field they wish to study in college by hearing guest speakers, going on field trips, and completing an internship.
    Read 30 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Sports
    • 27 Total Schools
    • 18,918 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  14. Corona-Norco Unified School District

    • School District
    • Norco, CA
    • 229 reviews
    #12 Best School Districts for Athletes in California

    Parent: I can’t begin to tell you how great this school district is! From admistration to teachers to all the support staff involved at the district to schools, everyone puts the kids first and are on the same team! They truly do hire and train the best, maybe that’s why it’s so hard for new teachers to get in because the competition is fierce to enter this district. I have two boys that attend Temescal Valley Elementary and El Cerrito middle and I wouldn’t have it any other way! No wonder corona Home prices shot through the roof and slowing catching up to Orange County! I would put this district up with the best of the best and highly recommend to all parents!
    Read 229 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Sports
    • 51 Total Schools
    • 53,005 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  15. Tamalpais Union High School District

    • School District
    • Larkspur, CA
    • 11 reviews
    #13 Best School Districts for Athletes in California

    Junior: Tamalpais High School is a very well funded school with great teachers and access to great resources like computers and art supplies. The programs like the drama and computer science ones are excellent and provide plenty of support for students looking to learn more.

    The problems with this school are the lack of diversity and the level of caring that students show. First of all, the school is almost 85 % white, so it difficult for students who are a racial minority. Second, the school is rampant with students who do not try, but still demand high grades, and then whine and complain when they receive a B.

    However, even with those negatives, the school still offers a top notch education for a public school and students who go here are blessed with such a good education.
    Read 11 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Sports
    • 5 Total Schools
    • 4,689 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  16. Bonita Unified School District

    • School District
    • San Dimas, CA
    • 48 reviews
    #14 Best School Districts for Athletes in California

    Junior: The Bonita School District is overall a decent district. San Dimas High School is located right next to a recreational center with a pool and a performing arts center called "Bonita Center for the Arts" which is awesome for the arts programs. The arts are pretty well funded compared to other schools, and the district pays for buses to competitions! The academics are decent as well, with a few exemplary teachers. Options for classes are pretty great as well, with quite a few AP classes to choose from. The student body is exactly how you would assume it to be. For the most part, students mind their own business. The kids involved with the arts programs have only positive things to say about their involvement, especially in the band. The food is decent, but not outstanding. No vegan or vegetarian options.
    Read 48 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Sports
    • 15 Total Schools
    • 10,227 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  17. Saddleback Valley Unified School District

    • School District
    • Mission Viejo, CA
    • 93 reviews
    #15 Best School Districts for Athletes in California

    Alum: Saddleback is a great district. I have attended Lomarena Elementary, La Paz Intermediate and Mission Viejo High and they have all been great schools!
    Read 93 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Sports
    • 35 Total Schools
    • 27,718 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  18. Sweetwater Union High School District

    • School District
    • Chula Vista, CA
    • 251 reviews
    #16 Best School Districts for Athletes in California

    Senior: I am a current senior under the sweet water union high school district. I’ve been in this district all my four years of high school. Our district has some advantages and disadvantages. For instance, there’s only one school with a pool leaving aquatic sports to struggle in getting rides to a public pool. Not only do sports have it hard, but in academics only freshman to juniors have the advantage to use computers leaving seniors without them. Although underclassmen have it those computers aren’t even good at all. On the other hand, some programs have flourished under the influence of the district.
    Read 251 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Sports
    • 31 Total Schools
    • 40,671 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  19. Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District

    • School District
    • Placentia, CA
    • 81 reviews
    #17 Best School Districts for Athletes in California

    Senior: I love being part of the PYLUSD school district. I have been apart of it ever since I went to pre-school at Travis Ranch and I would not have it any other way. I have made so many memories with friends, teachers, and activities I have been apart of. I am so sad that this is my last year in school at Esperanza. I'm going to miss all the fun times I had these past 14 years. I would just like to say that all these teachers have been outstanding. All of them are willing to help you in any way possible and gives many chances to improve yourself. That's what I adore about the teachers and faculty. They have warm hearts and open arms. All the activities, academics, and extra activities are so fun to go to! The activities director always overdoes herself and goes above and beyond to assure us that we will definitely be happy when we arrive. I wouldn't imagine spending my pre-school-senior year anywhere else! Thank you PYLUSD.
    Read 81 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Sports
    • 34 Total Schools
    • 25,734 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  22. Temecula Valley Unified School District

    • School District
    • Temecula, CA
    • 75 reviews
    #18 Best School Districts for Athletes in California

    Senior: I have been in the Temecula Valley Unified School District my entire life, from attending Tony Tobin Elementary School, moving on to Vail Ranch Middle School, and finishing my education at Great Oak High School. Throughout my 12-13 years of school, TVUSD has been a very welcoming and open environment, in which I feel I have thrived in. There has been the occasional issue of prejudice, as well as I've experienced some issues of bullying and unfair treatment by students. However, I do not blame the school district for this. To me, this is a cause of growing kids in general! So, I have always enjoyed the TVUSD environment and school district. The teachers have, for the most part, been excellent. The clubs and activities offered throughout my school have been life-changing, as I have been involved with theatre for several years now through the schools and have felt nothing but love and joy.
    Read 75 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Sports
    • 30 Total Schools
    • 29,845 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  23. Upland Unified School District

    • School District
    • Upland, CA
    • 31 reviews
    #19 Best School Districts for Athletes in California

    Alum: I loved the Upland Unified School District. I have been in it since elementary school and I felt nothing but protection, amazing teachers, welcoming arms, and much more. The transitions from school to school were very easy, I never felt like I was the odd man out. The teachers I had were excellent, I still go back to visit them and I'm already in college! I never tried the cafeteria food, but I hear it's good! I have attended district meetings that were very informative, I love the Upland Unified School District, it is always good to see some of the district staff members are school events, cities events, or even nearby events!
    Read 31 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Sports
    • 14 Total Schools
    • 11,028 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  24. Redondo Beach Unified School District

    • School District
    • Redondo Beach, CA
    • 20 reviews
    #20 Best School Districts for Athletes in California

    Alum: Redondo Union High School is an excellent place with an amazing staff and a diverse, but large, student body. Although the food can be lackluster at times, the faculty does an amazing job preparing students for their futures by preparing them for college extremely early. The teachers are very approachable and helpful as they are genuinely interested in making sure their students are successful in their future careers. One fault of this school is how they overload themselves with students, resulting in larger than normal sized classrooms and classes often get filled up with small flexibility in the beginning of the year. I've always looked forward to the school events and never felt bored by them. Redondo Union High School is one of the best public high schools in the South Bay and I'd heavily recommend going here.
    Read 20 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Sports
    • 13 Total Schools
    • 9,788 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  25. Capistrano Unified School District

    • School District
    • San Juan Capistrano, CA
    • 109 reviews
    #21 Best School Districts for Athletes in California

    Senior: Capistrano Unified provided me with amazing opportunities for growth in both my academics and music. I was able to participate in both band and orchestra. We performed in concerts at Segerstrom Center! Academically speaking, the curriculum was challenging and required me to apply my knowledge to real world problems. The best part of my educational opportunities was getting to take a course in forensic science which has inspired me to pursue a career in forensics.
    Read 109 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Sports
    • 62 Total Schools
    • 53,613 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  26. Paramount Unified School District

    • School District
    • Paramount, CA
    • 38 reviews
    #22 Best School Districts for Athletes in California

    Senior: I really enjoy being a Paramount High School Student. My family used to attend the school as well. I can say that there are many teachers who have pushed me to do my best. I believe they have given me the tips I need to be successful in life. Also, the school shows they care about where students are going after college. They give advice that is very useful and important to know. However, there are some issues with some teachers who do not explain enough or push the students to do their best. Overall, the school is very focused on helping students thrive and organized in doing so.
    Read 38 Reviews

    • B-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Sports
    • 18 Total Schools
    • 15,405 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  27. Long Beach Unified School District

    • School District
    • Long Beach, CA
    • 385 reviews
    #23 Best School Districts for Athletes in California

    Freshman: Going to school in the Long Beach Unified School District allowed for me to grow academically and personally. I was exposed to many opportunities related to education and my future goals, as well as introduced to a multitude of different cultures and people in a safe environment. I feel that I went into University well prepared to tackle the work and with good time management skills. I also feel open and comfortable working with wide ranges of people. My only complaint would be that in some of the older high schools, things such as the lack of airconditioning and what could-be-better restroom maintenance made the experience of attending a bit disappointing. My only wish is that they improve the quality of the bulidings/facilities to be at par with the great programs and schooling offered at the schools.
    Read 385 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Sports
    • 85 Total Schools
    • 76,428 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  28. Lincoln Unified School District

    • School District
    • Stockton, CA
    • 43 reviews
    #24 Best School Districts for Athletes in California

    Sophomore: Lincoln Unified School District has been a wonderful district to grow up in. I have attended here since Kindergarten and had many wonderful teachers throughout my schooling. My elementary and middle school experiences prepared me well for high school, and I have found that I have been relatively successful throughout my different courses. I have taken opportunities to become involved in many clubs and athletics while at the high school and feel that if you are involved in your school, you are a part of helping to make your school a positive and welcoming environment. My overall experience with Lincoln Unified has been a very positive one and I would highly recommend this district to anyone thinking of moving to the area.
    Read 43 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Sports
    • 13 Total Schools
    • 9,438 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  29. New Haven Unified School District

    • School District
    • Union City, CA
    • 31 reviews
    #25 Best School Districts for Athletes in California

    Junior: I have always had positive experiences with the school district that I attend, New Haven Unified School District. The best qualities of the district are the resources that students are provided with and the diversity of the student populace. Every student is provided with a Chromebook, which is especially convenient for students who don't have access to another electronic at home. Students are able to borrow books from the library and return them at any time without being fined. Moreover, diversity is our greatest strength. My school and all the schools within the district have students of different ethnicities, who speak a wide range of languages. Consequently, students are more accepting of other cultures.
    Read 31 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Sports
    • 13 Total Schools
    • 11,893 Students
    View Nearby Homes
  30. Sponsored

    USC Hybrid High College Prep

    • Los Angeles Unified School District, CA
    • 9-12
    • 67 reviews

    Senior: If you want your kids to graduate and go to college successfully, USC Hybrid High School is the place. The teachers make learning fun and easy; They’re also very helpful, even if there is 20+ kids in the classroom. The kids there are welcoming, respectful and polite to each other, everybody is like a family over all. The learning spaces are nice and comfortable as well, you could either sit in regular chairs, couches or stand. When it comes to cultural events, the kids would be the to plan it out, the event always ends with people smiling and having fun. When it comes to applying to colleges a certain staf team would be there to help the future graduates, weather it’s for applications, transcripts or even scholarships, they’re always there to help, but you have to help them help you. With all the hard work done and over, our rate for kids getting accepted to college is always 100%. Overall USC Hybrid High School is number one on my recommendation list.
    Read 67 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 508 Students
    • 26:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes
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    Oaks Christian School

    • Private School
    • Westlake Village, CA
    • 5-12
    • 208 reviews

    Senior: I love Oaks Christian because we are literally a college level institution that serves 5th through 12th graders with top of the line programs, amenities, and resources. We have some of the best sports programs in the country that produce top 10 nationally ranked athletes across multiple different sports (softball, basketball, football, waterpollo to name a few). We also have an incredible theater program with professional equipment and instructors that have also led students to prolific professional careers in the performing arts in Hollywood and on Broadway. I also love Oaks Christian because of we are constantly innovating. For example, just next year we will be launching the new institute of arts and innovation to step up another notch the level of education offered in the performing and visual arts! The idea lab for engineering and science is also amazing. I also love my schools Christian values.
    Read 208 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,320 Students
    • 9:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes
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    Sierra Canyon School

    • Private School
    • Chatsworth, CA
    • PK, K-12
    • 66 reviews

    Freshman: I've been attending SC since 5th grade and I have had no issues! The environment is very friendly and I've made some great friends over the years. The teachers are very nice and approachable and their classes are very academically rigorous. Overall, great school!
    Read 66 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 986 Students
    • 11:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes
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