2023 High Schools with the Best Teachers in Orange County

• Santa Ana, CA•

• Public School•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 4.17 out of 5  568 reviews

Junior: I love Orange County School of the Arts, it's such an incredibly diverse cultural and artistic environment. You get people from all around Southern California, from Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego from so many different backgrounds! I feel accepted and respected here as a woman and as a member of the LGBTQ+ community. I'm challenged every day artistically and academically, I truly feel like I'm becoming my best self and that I'm being set up for imminent success in my future in the arts. We have notable alumni and the opportunity to interact and learn from industry professionals regularly who have been successful in artistic industries like film, television, musical theater, dance, animation, graphic design, fine arts, and creative writing. I would seriously recommend OCSA for any budding artist who has an interest and passion for a career in the arts or artistic industry.... Read 568 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Students 2,277

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• Fullerton Joint Union High School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.08 out of 5  949 reviews

Senior: I am currently a Senior at Troy High School and have overall really enjoyed my experience here. I have nothing but great things to say about the Teachers, each teacher I have had has done an amazing job at preparing their students for the next level. Most teachers here truly show how much they care about their students and never fail to make us feel recognized and appreciated. Although Troy does lack some school spirit, and our admin sometimes shuts down a lot of student requests, I appreciate how they make Troy a safe place for its students. During my four years, I have been involved in many clubs as well as the cheer squad. If you're considering sending your child to Troy, make sure they are keeping a balance! A lot of students come here and are pushed too far by their parents causing them to crack under pressure. When coming to such an academically focused school, you must do what's best for you and not forget to indulge in the parts of high school that make it so unforgettable.... Read 949 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Students 2,614

• Student-teacher ratio 23:1

• Newport-Mesa Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  137 reviews

Senior: Early College High School is a great school for students who are interested in attending college. The rigor of high school and of our dual enrollment courses with Coastline Community College is unmatched with any other general high school. Despite a small campus and nearly 250 students, school culture, spirit, safety, and diversity is clearly seen. Teachers are always there to aid students in their learning and often keep check on students who miss an assignment or seem distracted with something else in their lives. Early College High School staff is always there to aid in a students learning no matter who they are or what background they come from, we are all seen as equals. However, Early College High School does have its downsides. The main one being that it only has a soccer team that is not a registered California Interscholastic Federation sports team. Until my senior year clubs did not exist at Early College High School, however no clubs like anti-hate to chess club exist.... Read 137 reviews

• grade A

• grade A+

• Students 214

• Student-teacher ratio 24:1

• Irvine Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.04 out of 5  545 reviews

Senior: I transferred to Northwood Highschool from another school in California. When I was a new student, I was embraced by staff such as my councilor in a way that made me feel safe. They helped me get sorted into the new school, giving me all the information I needed for a easy transition to happen. And it was! The staff deeply care about the students health and wellbeing, while still ensuring that we get a proper education. All the teachers that I've had, have been amazing in their fields, helping me become the best at the certain subject. The schools atmosphere is amazing as well. The open space, with nature filled radiance touches the school. I absolutely adore how there is open space at in the school's field's rather than it being filled with a cement stadium like other schools. It gives a relaxing vibe to the school and the athletics department as well.... Read 545 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Students 1,756

• Student-teacher ratio 25:1

• Newport-Mesa Unified School District, CA•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  288 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 288 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Students 2,169

• Student-teacher ratio 24:1

• Irvine Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  504 reviews

Sophomore: I've had a pretty amazing experience at University High School in Irvine, California. They have provided me with so many opportunities for rigorous learning and opportunities to be involved in so many unique clubs, activities, and classes. Students at University High are really passionate and love to collaborate with each other. Teachers also really care about their students and I've had so many meaningful interactions in their classes. Classes are interesting and engaging and we often have interesting discussions. Also, no matter what question I have or if I want to learn more about something, there is always someone willing to help me -- teachers, counselors, students, anyone! I've had a chance to really foster my love for learning by taking honors classes. The only downside I would reflect on is how competitive the environment can be, which makes you feel a bit pressured at times to be high achieving. But competitiveness has also encouraged me as well!... Read 504 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Students 1,708

• Student-teacher ratio 26:1

• Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.92 out of 5  457 reviews

Senior: My time at Valencia High School was full of ups and downs, but the high school was a relatively great school with top tier academic rigor and options. With passionate teachers, committed students, and an involved community Valencia High School provides a home and a family to more than 3000 talented and enthusiastic students representing a rich diversity of backgrounds and personal experience. The Valencia Academy, which includes an International Baccalaureate Program and a Val Tech Diploma Program, has been instrumental in bringing students to Valencia from outside the attendance area and district. Valencia High School has been able to increase the number of Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, and computer technology. The option to choose what classes you want is very much like a university, while housing a tight community of scholars from all backgrounds. The school provides minorities and low-income/underserved students the opportunity to shine and grow as scholars.... Read 457 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Students 2,628

• Student-teacher ratio 23:1

• Irvine Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  406 reviews

Senior: I like how students have many opportunities for leadership and benefitting their community in school clubs and organizations. A club fair is hosted once a year at lunch where students promote their club and convince others to join with posters and games. My involvement with the school grew each year as I became comfortable in the environment. As a freshman, I was the secretary of Creative Writing Club. A year later, I became a member of California Scholarship Federation. As a junior, I was a member of National Honor Society, Student Forum, and secretary of ECOIrvine. Now as a senior, I am a spirit-rep of Student Forum, a member of CSF, and an officer in ECOIrvine. One thing that could be changed on campus would be the facilities offered to students. Irvine High does not teach International Baccalaureate courses and is limited on their arts staff. However, high school has been such a fun experience and I'll miss the memories, but I am looking forward to the many years ahead!... Read 406 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Students 1,380

• Student-teacher ratio 21:1

• Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.94 out of 5  382 reviews

Alum: Because the school was established recently, all of the facilities were gorgeous. Additionally, some of the best teachers migrated from other schools to teach at this one. I was a member of the varsity soccer program for 4 years, which undoubtedly enriched my experience as a Mustang. The faculty, for the most part, enable success for students and the families of these students. Over my four years as a Mustang, I developed an understanding and an appreciation for the staff and peers I was surrounded by that made my experience everything it was. I will forever run with the STAMPEDE!... Read 382 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Students 1,697

• Student-teacher ratio 24:1

• Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  307 reviews

Senior: High school has been such a rewarding experience for me. Through the caring and passionate staff that Esperanza is equipped with, I feel better prepared for the future. In addition, Esperanza has also allowed me to have a memorable high school experience. Whether it be through clubs or academics, I always felt encouraged to participate and branch out of my norm. Although cut short due to COVID, I felt beyond welcomed my freshman year. I was a shy girl who was able to quickly develop a strong and inclusive personality. I joined Link Crew my sophomore year- a club focused on welcoming the freshman- and was able to reciprocate the love shown towards me. Continuing my journey through high school, I felt fully supported by the Esperanza family. This family included my teachers, counselor and even the janitors. I felt the happiness radiating from everyone who works there. My experience through high school has allowed me to set high standards to attend a welcoming college.... Read 307 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Students 1,493

• Student-teacher ratio 21:1

• Fullerton Joint Union High School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  594 reviews

Alum: Great school, just completed my four years this year. Very safe and all of the students are intelligent and top-class. There's a ton of diversity with people from all different types of backgrounds. Every single teacher (at least the ones I had) taught really well and clearly had expertise in the subject. This school accommodated for students perfectly during the COVID-19/online school year, providing students with many, many resources. Overall, this is easily one of the best schools in the Orange County area and I'll miss this school!... Read 594 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Students 2,401

• Student-teacher ratio 28:1

• Capistrano Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.99 out of 5  430 reviews

Sophomore: My sophomore year was pretty good! The majority of my teachers were great and I felt like I really learned a lot. My English teacher got injured in the beginning of the year and took a paid leave for the rest of the school year, so I was stuck taking a different class. My Spanish teacher also did not teach very well. Overall, mostly everything was good and I enjoyed it.... Read 430 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Students 2,409

• Student-teacher ratio 26:1

• Garden Grove Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  662 reviews

Senior: La Quinta will definitely prepare you for higher education. Students here have many opportunities to be well-rounded in math/STEM, humanities, literature, music, and art. However, the student body does tend to be very academically-competitive in ways that aren't always healthy. This has improved over the last 4 years I've been here, and it obviously varies from graduating class to class. I am quite convinced that LQHS has some of the best and most caring teachers in the whole world. Most, if not all, of my teachers have been amazing mentors that have given me valuable knowledge and emotional support. Though this school can improve in its extracurricular activities and overall resources, the best thing about this campus is the faculty. I also love how this school offers challenging courses in science, math, history, and English. We are so lucky to have qualified educators teaching these high-level courses. We also have an excellent library and amazing librarian!... Read 662 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• Students 2,156

• Student-teacher ratio 26:1

• Laguna Beach Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  151 reviews

Alum: Excellent school, beautiful campus, amazing teachers. Amazing classes and activities, the school is very well funded and taken care of, & I can tell I got a better education compared to others and it showed when I was in college. I always felt very safe and lucky to go there. However, very privileged kids and parents, and it shows, Laguna is old money and can be quite pretentious! Had a difficult time fitting in (as did my mom) and finding friends as a middle class student. I'd say at least 75% of parents are married, and parents and kids are used to getting whatever they want . School is at least 80% white. Small school, feels private (about 1,000 students), amazing for your kids education and ability to be a part of something they'd love (ceramics, silk screening, theatre, beach volleyball, basketball, water polo, photography, dance, cheer, debate, football, etc.) As hard as it was for me to find friends at this school, the education, campus, and teachers are top notch. So 4 stars... Read 151 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Students 1,052

• Student-teacher ratio 19:1

• Tustin Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  757 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 757 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Students 2,938

• Student-teacher ratio 27:1

• Santa Ana, CA•

• Public School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  183 reviews

Junior: My experience at Nova Academy Early College High School can be described as welcoming. Nova academy offers lots of resources in the field of college readiness. Some of the programs offered include, College Bound, dual enrollment classes with Santa Ana College, and scholarship and financial Aid guidance for seniors applying for universities and colleges. The teachers and classes at Nova are at. great level of enrichment where if you take the opportunity you will learn at a more personal level as well as create many close relationships with teachers, administration, counselors, and students.... Read 183 reviews

• grade B+

• grade A

• Students 370

• Student-teacher ratio 22:1

• Irvine Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.83 out of 5  488 reviews

Senior: I loved the atmosphere Woodbridge created for all of its students! I was able to easily make many friends in many of my classes because of how comfortable I felt in such classes. Woodbridge created many different opportunities for all students to feel welcome, included, and able to talk to others. When learning, I felt comfortable enough to ask my peers and teachers for help - even when I was falling behind. Through all these aspects at Woodbridge, my high school experience was elevated to a high point of great satisfaction. I will never forget my time at Woodbridge - through the fun pep rallies, inclusive activities, comfortable class setting, and more!... Read 488 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Students 1,931

• Student-teacher ratio 24:1

• Capistrano Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.22 out of 5  429 reviews

Junior: I enjoyed it a lot because it taught me a lot about myself and how to handle certain situations. This school also made me feel at home because of the comfortable environment. All the classrooms and outside areas are kept clean, and the staff are very supportive. The school spirit is beyond compare, since every football game on Friday nights are filled with students of all classes. The teachers are always here to help, and I know I can count on them to help me when I need it. During these awkward times of practicing social distancing, wearing a mask, and online learning, the staff at the school have taken it very seriously. They ensure that all students who choose to do the hybrid program, which is two days at school and three days at home, are safely utilizing the facilities. I will also add that the teachers have done a great job when it came to adapting to the computer teaching style. Overall I would say my experience has been one of a kind at San Juan Hills High school!... Read 429 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Students 2,916

• Student-teacher ratio 26:1

• Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.12 out of 5  317 reviews

Senior: The best thing about El Dorado is the remarkable and unique school spirit on campus! Everyone on staff and in the classrooms are incredibly kind, generous, and helpful to guide you on your path to college or the career field. Our student body is flooded with school spirit and overall support for one another and I would not change one thing about our school spirit! The various offered courses, including Honors, Advanced Placements, Arts, and more, create a diversity on campus that is distinctive for our school. Teachers, administrative staff, counselors, and coaches all contribute to create a supportive and encouraging environment. If I could change one thing about El Dorado, I would increase the number of clubs and the types of offered classes. While our current clubs and offered classes are already phenomenal, I believe that increasing the variety and diversity of clubs and classes could improve the student body and allow students to thrive in their respective fields of interest.... Read 317 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Students 2,004

• Student-teacher ratio 25:1

• Garden Grove Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  440 reviews

Senior: The teachers and staff at this campus care about their students in and out of the classroom. They are very supportive of their career goals and make sure assistance is given when needed. The campus is very empty as a result of remodeling, so it could feel somber at times. There is still an inconvenient dirt track and uneven playing field, per request of the people living nearby. I highly recommend joining the NJROTC program on campus, as students get to participate in many state, regional, and national competitions.... Read 440 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• Students 1,688

• Student-teacher ratio 23:1

• Fullerton Joint Union High School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  356 reviews

Parent: Transferred my son from a private school during covid because of job insecurity concerns. Love this school! The teachers and staff are amazing. They have so many great programs and resources for the students. My favorite being HISTEP. Every school should have this program.... Read 356 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A

• Students 2,077

• Student-teacher ratio 24:1

• Garden Grove Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  436 reviews

Senior: Santiago High is a choice for a parent who wants their kid's study in a nice environment with a variety of races that their child could experience working with other people in the world. As I, a child of Southeast Asia, to be specific is the girl of Vietnam. Better than other schools in the district, not many Vietnamese students enroll in this school, which helps an English learner like me have the opportunity to talk and learn a new language with a true English speaker. Be fiend with them help improve my English skills. Teachers are the nicest people, and truly in love with their job; have made the lessons more attractive and easier to get in. I was not a good English speaker but the people in here really did make wonderful things such as the no-judgment zone. I do feel very confident as always while studying in school. This is my last year, but the only regret things are that I have not truly express my feelings, and tell everyone that I appreciate every little thing they taught me!... Read 436 reviews

• grade B+

• grade A

• Students 1,984

• Student-teacher ratio 23:1

• Garden Grove Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  492 reviews

Junior: I absolutely love Garden Grove High School. There are so many passionate and innovative teachers on campus pushing you to reach beyond your limits and helping you thrive. They offer a multitude of rigorous courses, and even have a Latin program where Latin1-4 is taught! The campus is extremely diverse and always seeking ways to unite students and make everyone feel like they belong and can proudly identify as an Argonaut, our school's mascot. Not only are the academics of this school challenging and invigorating, the campus is alive with involvement, events, and activities. Constantly bustling with clubs, scholarship foundations, military sponsors, volunteer projects, college workshops, performances, and more, Garden Grove High School encourages and motivates students to not only be engaged in school but in their community as well.... Read 492 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• Students 2,349

• Student-teacher ratio 25:1

• Santa Ana Unified School District, CA•

• 3-12

• •
  Rating 5 out of 5  1 review

Middle School Student: I really like the teaching methods. I am being taught algebra and I am in 8th grade. We have very good food. This school is very great, There is nothing to change about this school.... Read 1 review

• grade B minus

• grade A

• Students 354

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1

• Irvine Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.32 out of 5  66 reviews

Sophomore: This school is very clean, rigorous, and fun, and has good resources for its students. My sophomore year was a little difficult because I had some mental health issues towards the end of the year and some teachers weren't very understanding of that, but I love the variety of clubs and activities to get involved in, and the attempt at helping students expand their interests through dual enrollment and CTE courses. I wish there were more dual enrollment courses offered! I've had some great teachers and some teachers that forced students to learn material by themselves (they were pretty inexperienced - which is expected with a newer school). I love the history department, the open air walkways and the variety of clubs here. Some cons are that the locker rooms smell disgusting, the cafeteria food is bad, and that there isn't much school spirit. Overall, I've had a decent experience here and hope that it improves my junior year!... Read 66 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Students 1,539

• Student-teacher ratio 25:1