The 10 Top-Rated Schools in Los Angeles Today

Settling on the ideal school for your child is important in catapulting them to academic success. And while some kids might succeed in a more traditional setting, others may require a more creative and modern approach.

Certainly, each child is unique and has a different way of learning. That's why we have compiled an informative list of some of the best schools in Los Angeles, stretching across elementary, middle, and high schools. Without further ado, here's a round-up of our top 10.

Best Elementary Schools

Community Magnet Charter Elementary School

11301 Bellagio Road Los Angeles, CA 90049

With a student population of 458, Community Magnet Charter Elementary School is a top-rated school with an outstanding academic record. It starts at kindergarten to grade 5 and offers a variety of curriculum and co-curricular options. 79% of the students perform at or above grade level in math, 78% in English, and 59% in Science.

It's no wonder this school is a preference for many parents — the teachers have much experience and show great dedication to helping students achieve their academic goals.

The teacher-to-student ratio stands at 25 to 1, so you can be sure your child will get the individual attention they need. Students can access one-on-one support and enrichment activities, such as art and music. 

Also, the library and computer lab are stocked well with books and tools to ensure children can explore and learn. The reviewers also noted the school provides a safe, secure, and nurturing environment for children.

Puc Milagro Charter School

1855 North Main Street Los Angeles, CA 90031

Tucked away in the heart of Los Angeles is Puc Milagro Charter School. It's an excellent elementary school with a student population of 289, covering kindergarten through 5th grade. The school has an outstanding record of success. In fact, 71% of students scored at or above grade level in math, 69% in English, and 39% in Science.

The teachers have years of experience and innovative teaching methods to ensure the best learning outcomes for their students. Moreover, the student-per-teacher ratio is 21 to 1, ensuring each student receives the attention they need. Moreover, the school provides a range of curricular and co-curricular activities such as art, music, and sports.

The school has a 5/5 rating on greatschool.org because of the supportive and friendly environment. In one online review, a parent noted that the school has a wonderful team and that the principal was always ready to help.

Renaissance Arts Academy

2558 North San Fernando Road Los Angeles, CA 90065

This top-rated elementary school has a student population of 554 and offers kindergarten through grade 12. Its record of success is apparent thanks to its rating of 4/5 on greatschools.org and its impressive test scores. With 75% of students scoring at or above grade level in math, 79% in English, and 78% in Science, the success of this school keeps soaring.

Renaissance Arts Academy also has a strong focus on performing arts, with students having access to music, theater, and dance classes. As such, children can explore their creative side and develop artistic talents.

The school has an emphasis on application-based learning and individualized instruction. Teachers use a multi-sensory approach to teaching so students can explore different methods and gain new perspectives. The student-teacher ratio is 20 to 1, enough to ensure each student gets the attention they need.

Reviewers also noted the school's focus on character development and social skills. The teachers are dedicated to instilling kindness and confidence in children. And with 90% of teachers having more than three years of experience, your child is in good hands. Their experience will very likely be engaging and intentional.

While Renaissance Arts Academy may not be without its flaws, it's worth considering for its academic excellence and emphasis on performing arts. 

Kenter Canyon Elementary School

645 North Kenter Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90049

Towering in the hills of Los Angeles, Kenter Canyon Elementary School is the epitome of excellence. The school's 557 students cover kindergarten through grade 5. Further, the school boasts a rating of 5/5 on greatschools.org. It has a stellar record of success, with 78% of students scoring at or above grade level in math, 82% in English, and 83% in Science.

Its STEAM-focused program ensures students can explore Science, technology, arts, and math creatively and engagingly. 

The highly experienced teachers are adept at guiding children through their academic journey. 91% of teachers have three or more years of experience, and 100% are certified, exceeding the Los Angeles average. While the student-teacher ratio is 24 to 1, students have plenty of opportunities to ask questions and gain valuable insights from their instructors.

The school's commitment to excellence makes it an ideal choice for families seeking quality education. Parents have repeatedly reported that their children have been exposed to rigorous coursework and have learned the critical skills necessary for success. The school also encourages students to reach their highest potential by providing them with a challenging yet supportive environment.

Kenter Canyon Elementary School is an incredibly popular choice among Los Angeles parents, making it worth considering if you want cutting-edge education.

Best Middle Schools

John Burroughs Middle School

600 South McCadden Place Los Angeles, CA 90005

John Burroughs Middle School is an excellent option if you're looking for a quality educational environment for your child. With a rating of 3/5 on greatschools.org, this school is revered for its academic excellence.

Students have access to solid academic and extracurricular programs that help foster a love of learning. With a curriculum encompassing math, English, science, and social studies, children can prepare for the rigors of high school. Additionally, students have access to various extracurricular activities that foster creativity and collaboration — such as music and sports.

The school also has a focus on social and emotional growth. Students are encouraged to participate in drama, debate, and club, which helps them build interpersonal capabilities and increase their self-awareness.

The faculty comprises dedicated teachers who are knowledgeable and experienced in their respective fields. 83% of teachers have three or more years of experience, making it one of the A-list schools in Los Angeles when it comes to educational quality.

This school will be ideal if you're looking for a school with solid educational foundations to help your child reach their full potential. Students will thrive academically, socially, and emotionally in this nurturing environment.

The student-teacher ratio of 28 to 1 provides an optimal learning environment where students can ask questions and get one-on-one attention from their teachers. Additionally, the school strongly focuses on technology integration. This ensures students have the tools and resources necessary to succeed in an increasingly digital world.

The school's inclusivity and diversity celebrate differences in culture, race, and gender. This makes it an ideal choice for students seeking an inclusive and safe learning environment.

Overall, John Burroughs Middle School is an excellent choice for students who want to take their academic pursuits to the next level. This school will surely provide your child with an unforgettable learning experience thanks to its wide variety of classes, integrated technology, and inclusive environment.

KIPP Los Angeles College Preparatory School

Whittier Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90023

Set in the heart of Los Angeles, KIPP LA College Preparatory School is rated 4/5 on greatschools.org. With a student population of 508, this school is ahead of the curve in educational excellence. 

The school offers an innovative and motivating learning experience that is bent towards the growth of each learner. Also, the school's test score is above average, with 68% of students scoring above average in English, 49% in Math, and 55% in Science. The institution's remarkable exam results indicate the teachers' motivation and drive toward helping students reach their full potential. 

In addition to its focus on academics, KIPP LA College Prep also offers a variety of extracurricular activities like sports and arts & crafts. This helps to develop students' interests and foster a love of learning.

The faculty consists of highly qualified teachers, 57% with three or more years of experience. KIPP LA College Prep also strongly emphasizes parent/teacher collaboration, ensuring students get the individual attention they need.

Most reviews on greatschools.org are positive, with parents praising the school for its academic excellence, diverse student body, and focus on social-emotional learning. One parent noted that the school had exceeded their expectations in providing a safe and secure atmosphere for their children to learn and grow.

At KIPP LA College Prep, students expect a rigorous college preparatory curriculum taught by passionate teachers in an inspiring environment.

Renaissance Arts Academy

2558 North San Fernando Road Los Angeles, CA 90065

Making it to the list of top middle schools in Los Angeles, Renaissance Arts Academy is an excellent choice for students looking to excel academically and explore the arts. Its exceptional performance spans across elementary and now middle school levels.

100% of students graduate well-prepared for college and the real world, 100% meet UC/CSU entrance requirements, and 43% score the minimum score needed on an SAT exam.

The academic performance is driven by a challenging curriculum supplemented with various enrichment activities like music, theater, and art appreciation classes. The school also offers multiple electives, including web and advanced 3D design.

Renaissance Arts Academy focuses strongly on social-emotional learning, which helps students develop the necessary skills to become successful adults. They also have an extensive parent involvement program encouraging parents to engage with their children's academic progress.

Best High Schools

Math, Science, And Technology Magnet Academy

456 S Mathews St, Los Angeles, CA 90033

This renowned magnet school in Los Angeles has been a staple of excellence, consistently ranked amongst the highest-rated middle schools. The Math, Science, and Technology Magnet Academy students' body totals 530, all attending grades 9 to 12.

This school offers an academically challenging curriculum focusing on math, science, and technology, preparing students for college and the professional world.

Math classes are enriched with problem-solving courses, while science courses offer hands-on experiments to engage students in learning. Further, test scores reflect the school's commitment to student achievement, with 71% scoring above average in English, 35% in Math, and 31% in Science.

Students also have the opportunity to join extracurricular activities like science fairs and competitive math tournaments. These activities help build critical thinking skills while fostering collaboration among students.

The teaching staff is highly qualified, with 92% of teachers having three or more years of experience. They also have an excellent parent involvement program encouraging parents to engage in their children's academic progress.

All these attributes make Math, Science, and Technology Magnet Academy an excellent choice for students seeking a well-rounded academic experience.

Middle College High School

1600 W. Imperial Hwy Los Angeles, California, 90047

Middle College High School is a unique school in Los Angeles that offers students the chance to earn their high school diploma while completing college-level courses. The student body of 404 consists of 9th to 12th graders seeking to get ahead and prepare for college.

Middle College High School focuses on academic excellence, offering an intense course load that includes college-level math, Science, English, and social studies classes. The school also provides students the opportunity to pursue Advanced Placement courses which can help them earn college credit.

Its diverse student population includes different racial, ethnic, and socio-economic backgrounds. Further, the school has a strong culture of collaboration, with staff members taking an active role in students' academic progress.

The teachers are highly qualified and 100% have three or more years of experience, making it a go-to choice for students who want to receive an excellent education. 

The impressive academic performance of Middle College High School is evidenced by the fact that 100% of the students transitioned to college, and a further 26% of its student population scored the minimum score needed on an SAT exam.

Middle College High School's unique approach to education makes it an ideal choice for students who want to get ahead and take control of their academic future. Its all-rounded educational programs, diverse population, and motivated staff make it an excellent choice for those seeking an academically rigorous experience.

Renaissance Arts Academy

2558 N San Fernando Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90065

This top-rated charter school offers students an intensive arts-focused learning experience. The Renaissance Arts Academy is the only school in Los Angeles focusing on performing, visual, and digital arts.

Moreover, 100% of the students successfully transitioned to college, reflecting the school's commitment to its students' success. The impressive test scores further reflect this commitment, with 100% of students meeting UC/CSU entrance requirements and  43% obtaining the minimum score required for an SAT exam.

Trust Your Instincts

While the whole process may feel overwhelming, choosing a school you and your child feel good about attending is best. Sure, you may carry due diligence, but sometimes, you may have a good gut feeling about a particular school. 

Whatever the case, the 10 top-rated schools in Los Angeles mentioned above are exceptionally great if you're looking for academically rigorous and creative experiences. After all, your school of choice should adequately cater to your child's educational needs.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Monkey Business Images/Shutterstock.com.