2023 High Schools with the Best Teachers in the San Francisco Bay Area

• San Jose, CA•

• Public School•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  186 reviews

Senior: UPA has been an excellent learning environment throughout my 5 years as a student. The small class sizes allows for teachers, counsellors and staff to truly connect with students and accommodate their needs. Readily available office hours and quick turn around time for emails has helped me reach out to teachers whenever I needed help in their class. In terms of student life, UPA has a strong sense of community on campus. Most events are inclusive to all grades and many electives have a diverse range of grade levels in them. Programs such as Web and Link, as well as clubs, make UPA an environment that balances both school and personal interests. As someone involved in multiple clubs (President of Girl Up!, PR manager of both Film Club and Acts of Random Kindness club), I can vouch that UPA truly allows students to run their organizations. UPA's Theater Department, although low in funding, harbors immense talent and dedication, in which I've seen in my experience as a stage manager... Read 186 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Students 702

• Student-teacher ratio 21:1

• Palo Alto Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  325 reviews

Senior: Honestly not terrible. Can at times be a bit hit and miss (i.e. got unlucky with teachers, but at what school is that not a thing), but for the most part you can get a pretty good experience out of this school if you stay optimistic. Which brings me to the main downside: (it feels like) everyone goes to college. And because of that, there are great resources to go to college! Which means you can get lulled into a false sense of security around knowing what you need to do for college even though you don't because so much has been handed to you. But as long as you're aware of that you can avoid those pitfalls and have a pretty good time.... Read 325 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Students 1,936

• Student-teacher ratio 19:1

• Los Gatos-Saratoga Joint Union High School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  213 reviews

Sophomore: As a high school student who moved from Korea to start my first experience in an American high school at Saratoga High School, I consider my experience incomparable to any other high school I might have gotten into. Saratoga High School has a broad diversity where most students are first-generation immigrants from many different cultures. Although many people comment that our school is putting immense pressure on students, I think the pressure actually motivates many students. However, sometimes this pressure and high expectations on students might be too much.... Read 213 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Students 1,159

• Student-teacher ratio 21:1

• Palo Alto Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  346 reviews

Senior: Amazing, dedicated students! Academics are challenging, and many students are stressed, but my experience here was incredible. The people are super nice and inviting. I recommend enrolling in Middle College or College Now instead of taking AP courses. You still get the high school experience and guaranteed college credit.... Read 346 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Students 2,085

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• Pleasanton Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  415 reviews

Sophomore: I enjoy the the community-feel of my school; the teachers are very invested in providing the best education they can give to the students, which is so refreshing to see, especially during distanced learning. However, the school is very competative, so many students want take honors and AP courses, but there isn't enough space in classes to give everyone thos kinds of oppurtunities!... Read 415 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Students 2,237

• Student-teacher ratio 24:1

• Fremont Union High School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  495 reviews

Senior: Lynbrook is a very academically-focused school. The environment is often described as competitive, however, students are generally supportive of each other and their individual endeavors. Quality of teaching varies at Lynbrook. In general, teachers are supportive and caring of the students, but having to essentially self-study some courses does happen occasionally. As one may expect, AP classes have a heavier workload at Lynbrook, but in general I've found that I get more out of an AP class compared to a regular class. This is due to the teachers usually putting more time and effort into properly engaging the class with the courses. Support for extracurricular programs such as clubs and sports will depend on the specific activity, as some programs are funded more than others. The school can improve on equally funding all extracurricular programs. School spirit is high and the student body can get highly involved in activities such as homecoming, rallies, and other spirit events.... Read 495 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Students 1,942

• Student-teacher ratio 24:1

• Santa Clara Unified School District, CA•

• 10-12

• •
  Rating 4.25 out of 5  12 reviews

Junior: Absolutely amazing school! The teachers actually care about students' success and do everything in their power to help students achieve their goals. And, the classes are small, which is amazing! Most teachers provide meaningful work that'll help students later in life. The office is super helpful in schedule changes and any problems you have. My academic counselor is super helpful in picking out colleges and helping me construct my college path. The campus itself is clean and nice, and the students are all very welcoming. I wish there were more clubs and awards like the larger schools in the area. For example, we don't have NHS, or any organized varsity and JV teams. But, you are always welcome to start your own club if you want! This school has really prepared me for college, as I've gotten a taste of college classes. The school culture is positive, and everyone pushes you to do your best. I haven't seen much parent involvement, but there wasn't a need for any.... Read 12 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Students 116

• Student-teacher ratio 23:1

• Pleasanton Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.07 out of 5  548 reviews

Freshman: I love my school! It's a very fun environment to study in and the teachers are great. They teach very well and have very good knowledge of their subjects (as they should!). The students are very kind and we are constantly reminded to be good students (no smoking, drinking, bullying, etc). I've heard that some of the world language teachers aren't great at teaching, however, I haven't had that experience so far. The rivalry it has with Foothill is very friendly and enjoyable. (A lot of my friends go to Foothill, so we like to teach each other every now and then.) It would be nice if the clubs would do a better job at advertising themselves so that I can find out how to sign up for them if I'm interested.... Read 548 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Students 2,744

• Student-teacher ratio 24:1

• Dublin Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  462 reviews

Senior: The school spirit, campus, sports teams, teachers, resources, activities, events, various clubs, productions, and concerts are all amazing! On the other hand, the school is incredibly competitive, academics are challenging, and some studies are underrepresented. For example, there are academies for Biomed and Engineering, but not Business.... Read 462 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Students 3,286

• Student-teacher ratio 23:1

• Fremont Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.37 out of 5  408 reviews

Freshman: Ever since covid has started, perhaps, the first thing on my mind was starting high school. And, now that I am in high school, I do have to mention that it is quite weird without being there in person, or having people around you while you dash to your lockers in between periods. However, covid has definitely eased my way into 9th grade, with the teachers being so supportive and hard-working. If you are a student, you probably have either felt really bad and guilty as the teacher pleads (for the 100th time) to unmute and speak up or when breakouts are so awkward and can really relate to the uneasiness in the beginning of the school year. But, hats off to the teachers! They are so dedicated and helpful. School during covid is definitely not easy, but my respect has grown remarkably for the teachers who make it happen every day! Also, shoutout to all the leadership students, who keep us entertained and energetic throughout the day with fun concepts, events, and fundraisers!... Read 408 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Students 2,063

• Student-teacher ratio 26:1

• Tamalpais Union High School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  237 reviews

Senior: My experience in Redwood High School has been great! I have had a blast with friends in sports, class, and everything in between. It is crazy how fast the years have gone by and now I just remember the amazing things that has happen during my 3 years in Redwood. Teachers are very interested that you succeed in their class and will make time outside of school to help.... Read 237 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Students 1,986

• Student-teacher ratio 20:1

• Acalanes Union High School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.95 out of 5  227 reviews

Senior: Miramonte is a great school with many resources to offer students. The academic courses can be rigorous, but the teachers are all there to help you out. The teachers care about their jobs and are passionate, which contributes to their overall success in academics. Athletics are also great! There are lots of good opportunities to improve and everyone builds each other up.... Read 227 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Students 1,174

• Student-teacher ratio 19:1

• Santa Clara Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  559 reviews

Senior: I think Wilcox is a great highschool. I am now a senior, and I've enjoyed my experience more and more as I became older. There were many ups and downs, especially since almost half of my freshman year and all of my sophomore year was online. However, the way we bounced back as a school was very quick and my junior year quickly became my favorite year of school. The clubs, sports, and activities are really what build this school. Along with enthusiastic teachers, learning has been a rewarding journey. As a senior, I'm looking forward to finishing the year strong and spending one last year with the class of 2023.... Read 559 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Students 1,981

• Student-teacher ratio 21:1

• Fremont Union High School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  496 reviews

Sophomore: I appreciate how we are given brunch and lunch for free, which is very important for all students to be given the opportunity to learn on a full stomach. Additionally, our school provides many resources and provides a competitive culture that keeps students engaged. The community among students is very helpful and friendly. Overall, my experience is positive and I can't imagine being a student anywhere else!... Read 496 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Students 2,198

• Student-teacher ratio 24:1

• Redwood City, CA•

• Public School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.52 out of 5  182 reviews

Junior: I love Everest because it is highly a small school! It gives me the opportunity to reach out to my teachers, getting one on one help, and overall create relationships with them. It is definitely a college prep school where we are surrounded by my technology and playlists that help us independently study on our own. We have a tradition every year where all freshman, sophomore, junior, and seniors go on a camping trip and create community bondings! It is diverse which makes me feel more like at home since I am from East Palo Alto and not Redwood City. They give the best elective classes that are UC Approved, for example, Ethnic Studies, in which a few schools don't really include. I am in my Junior year and had spent the last 2 in a half years has an unweighted GPA of a 4.0. Everest gives all students the opportunity to be in AP classes to give them the challenge of their education. Overall, it is a great school and can't believe I am leaving in less than 2 years!... Read 182 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A

• Students 361

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Acalanes Union High School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  288 reviews

Senior: I am currently a senior at Campolindo (class of 22) and, for the most part, I’ve enjoyed my time here! Some of my favorite parts of high school have been: -stellar teachers (especially Mark Roberts and Jake Donohoe) -great sports programs -challenging but rewarding classes that are good preparation for college -absolutely incredible performing arts programs! the annual musical is one of the best aspects of the school and something I have thoroughly enjoyed -for the most part, students are kind and accepting As with everything, I do have my criticisms of the school. -the political culture here is EXTREMELY toxic. everyone is expected (and borderline forced) to fall in line with far-left radical beliefs especially surrounding CRT. The school preaches “diversity and inclusion” but mainly talks in circles instead of saying anything of substance. If you want to be exposed to a diversity of beliefs and values, this is not the school for you. Campolindo is a great, but flawed, school.... Read 288 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Students 1,400

• Student-teacher ratio 20:1

• Albany City Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  298 reviews

Senior: Albany high school has an excellent set of teachers in every department that truly care about the subjects they are teaching. The students are typically very satisfied with their teachers and the classroom environments are nurturing and engaging. Although one thing I think that Albany could improve on is helping to lessen the culture of "grades make a person" that is common among the students. Since the school doesn't offer many AP classes, and only allows students to begin taking them in Junior year, many students grasp at as many AP classes that they can within their last two years of schooling which creates overly stressed kids who worry more about getting an A than they do actually learning. I think this overall is the #1 cause of a lot of the mental health issues among students who crack under the pressure to uphold the "perfect student" narrative that is commonly associated with students at Albany High. While this is the case, the school is still exceptional overall.... Read 298 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Students 1,182

• Student-teacher ratio 20:1

• San Mateo Union High School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  244 reviews

Senior: I am half American and half Brazilian; I came to Burlingame High School knowing basic English and I left speaking fluently. BHS does not have a dELD program like the one in San Mateo High School, but they have an amazing group of positive and empathetic teachers and staff that pushes you to become your best self and overcome your barriers. The school offers a lot of resources for you to succeed, from wellness counselors to tutors, and also access to a library and online database. They offer everything you need, now it is your choice to take it!... Read 244 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Students 1,537

• Student-teacher ratio 21:1

• San Mateo Union High School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  283 reviews

Senior: My experience at Aragon High School was one of the best experiences of my life. I was able to make lifelong friends, learn valuable lessons, and develop a strong sense of self. The teachers at Aragon High School were some of the best I have ever had. They were always willing to help and answer any questions I had. They also provided a safe and supportive environment for me to learn and grow. I was able to take challenging classes and push myself to do my best. The extracurricular activities at Aragon High School were also great. I was able to join a variety of clubs and sports teams. The social atmosphere at Aragon High School was also great. I was able to make friends with people from all different backgrounds and cultures. Overall, my experience at Aragon High School was one of the best experiences of my life. I am so grateful for the time I spent at Aragon High School and the memories I made there.... Read 283 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Students 1,734

• Student-teacher ratio 23:1

• Mountain View-Los Altos Union High School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  332 reviews

Sophomore: I've moved to this school very recently, I used to attend Great Oak High school and moved recently. This school by far has been amazing. Everything from the Teachers to the schools facility are great. All of my teachers are amazing and very helpful and very engaged with their students. The students at this school are very kind and were willing to go out of way to help me around and even give me a tour of the school. The school also offers programs like counseling, collage help and free tutoring too. As far as academics and sports the school is very competitive. Facilities here are very well maintained and kept in excellent condition. The student body is also very diverse. Overall I really like my school and I know for a fact that anyone else that might transfer here would too. GO LAHS!... Read 332 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Students 2,209

• Student-teacher ratio 19:1

• San Mateo Union High School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  276 reviews

Senior: Mills High School in Millbrae, California is an exceptional institution that offers a top-notch education for high school students. One of the standout features is the diversity of the student body. Students have the opportunity to learn about and appreciate different perspectives and experiences. This environment also fosters a sense of inclusion and acceptance among students, which is essential for creating a positive school community. Academically, Mills High School is known for its rigorous curriculum and dedicated teaching staff. The school offers a range of AP courses, which allow students to challenge themselves and earn college credit while still in high school. In addition, Mills High School has an impressive record of sending graduates to top colleges and universities across the country. Overall, Mills High School is an outstanding institution that provides students with a quality education, a supportive community, and opportunities to explore their interests and talents.... Read 276 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Students 1,180

• Student-teacher ratio 21:1

• San Mateo Union High School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  300 reviews

Senior: Attending Hillsdale High School has been a great experience for me so far. As a freshmen, I experienced distance learning with Hillsdale during the COVID pandemic and definitely had a memorable first year of high school. All of the teachers and staff were experiencing the change along with the students which made the Hillsdale community comforting in the time of chaos. Now, two years later, the Hillsdale community has grown with me. I have seen amazing changes and additions to the school that promote inclusivity and diversity. And, as a part of Hillsdale's leadership class, I have had the chance to be a part of these changes and help advocate for the students that aren't generally recognized. Being a part of the Hillsdale community has given me an opportunity to grow and to understand what can happen just because someone decides to care.... Read 300 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Students 1,689

• Student-teacher ratio 19:1

• San Mateo Union High School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.08 out of 5  261 reviews

Senior: While the school I attended had strong academics and a supportive environment, it was unfortunately in poor condition both visually and in terms of infrastructure. This was particularly noticeable in some of the older buildings on campus, which had visible signs of disrepair and seemed to be in need of renovations or upgrades. Despite this, the school did its best to provide a high-quality education to its students, and I was able to receive a solid foundation in my field of study. However, it was also clear that many of the students at the school were there primarily for the purpose of earning college credits, rather than truly engaging with the material and seeking a deeper understanding. This seemed to create a somewhat superficial atmosphere on campus, as students were more focused on achieving good grades and meeting requirements than on truly immersing themselves in their studies and pursuing their passions.... Read 261 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Students 1,671

• Student-teacher ratio 20:1

• Piedmont City Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  93 reviews

Senior: I loved Piedmont High School! I loved all of my teachers, learned so many things, participated in many sports and activities, and I feel ready going to college next year.... Read 93 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Students 839

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Berkeley Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  538 reviews

Senior: I honestly love this school! Don't get me wrong, there are issues. Its a public school and suffers from a lot of problems that public schools typically have, however, for the most part you get an incredibly open and accepting community. If your interested in very rigorous academics there is an option for you and if you just want to mess around with friends all day you can try but chances are all but one or two of your teachers will step in because they really care about the students. Ultamitly, its an amazing place to go and when I talk to my friends at, Oakland tech for example, our students who are having a hard time are having a better time than those having an average time at Tech.... Read 538 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Students 3,257

• Student-teacher ratio 19:1