Bells HardingstoneEducation is one of the most important foundations for success, but not all schools in California offer students the same opportunities. Some institutions struggle with poor academic performance, lack of resources, safety concerns, and low graduation rates. These challenges have led to certain schools being recognized as the worst high schools in California. Families and students often face difficult decisions when assigned to such schools, as the environment can hinder learning and limit future opportunities. By identifying the worst high schools in California, it becomes clear where improvements and reforms are urgently needed.
Top 10 Worst High Schools in California
1. Everett Alvarez High School – Salinas, California
Everett Alvarez High is often ranked among the worst high schools in California due to its low graduation rate of around 79 percent and dropout rate exceeding 20 percent. Many students come from low-income households, and the school experiences high teacher turnover that disrupts learning consistency. Academic performance in math and reading is significantly below the state average, with less than 20 percent proficiency in math. These combined factors make it difficult for students to succeed and place the school in the category of the worst high schools in California.
2. Herbert Hoover High School – San Diego, California
Herbert Hoover High in San Diego has long faced academic challenges that classify it among the worst high schools in California. The school has historically recorded very low test scores, with many students performing below grade level in both reading and math. Its overall academic performance index was among the lowest in San Diego County for years. Although there have been reforms to improve student wellbeing, the consistent underperformance, coupled with limited resources, makes this school one of the worst high schools in California and highlights the deep educational inequality across the state.
3. John F. Kennedy High School – Richmond, California
John F. Kennedy High in Richmond is frequently cited as one of the worst high schools in California because of funding shortages and declining enrollment. Many of its once-thriving specialized programs, such as aerospace and biomedical studies, were eliminated due to financial cuts. The surrounding community struggles with crime and economic challenges that negatively affect students’ ability to learn. Test scores have dropped over the years, and student outcomes remain among the lowest in the region. These factors firmly place Kennedy High among the worst high schools in California, showing the impact of systemic underfunding.
4. Pescadero Middle and High School – Pescadero, California
Pescadero Middle and High School, though small, faces serious environmental and infrastructure problems that contribute to its reputation as one of the worst high schools in California. The school’s gymnasium and facilities are structurally unsound, despite being designated as an emergency shelter. Contaminated water from unsafe nitrate levels has forced reliance on bottled water. Students also face limited course offerings and extracurricular opportunities due to the school’s size and isolation. The combination of unsafe infrastructure, environmental hazards, and limited resources explains why Pescadero is ranked among the worst high schools in California.
5. Castlemont High School – Oakland, California
Castlemont High in Oakland struggles with academic performance, discipline issues, and low graduation rates, making it one of the worst high schools in California. Less than 15 percent of students meet math standards, and reading proficiency remains far below the state average. The school serves a predominantly low-income student population facing challenges such as crime and instability in their neighborhoods. Teacher retention has also been a long-term issue, with many educators leaving after short tenures. Castlemont’s ongoing struggles with academic achievement and community challenges place it among the worst high schools in California.
6. Fremont High School – Oakland, California
Fremont High has faced years of poor academic results, ranking it among the worst high schools in California. Less than 20 percent of students are proficient in math, and graduation rates fall below the state average. The school has been reorganized multiple times, yet academic performance has not significantly improved. Many students come from underserved communities, and poverty plays a major role in their academic struggles. Violence and disciplinary incidents have also been reported at higher-than-average rates. These issues keep Fremont High within the list of the worst high schools in California.
7. Jordan High School – Long Beach, California
Jordan High School in Long Beach is often listed among the worst high schools in California due to historically low academic performance. For many years, test scores in both math and reading ranked among the lowest in the district, and graduation rates have lagged behind state averages. The school has a large population of disadvantaged students, many of whom face language barriers and poverty-related struggles. Teacher turnover and inconsistent leadership have further hurt academic progress. Despite community improvement efforts, Jordan remains one of the worst high schools in California based on these ongoing challenges.
8. Manual Arts High School – Los Angeles, California
Manual Arts High in Los Angeles, one of the oldest schools in the city, has long faced difficulties that place it among the worst high schools in California. Its graduation rate is below the state average, and student proficiency in math and reading consistently falls behind. Overcrowding has been a serious problem, with classrooms stretched beyond capacity. Many students come from low-income families, and resources are often insufficient to meet their needs. Discipline issues and safety concerns have also been reported. These combined factors make Manual Arts High one of the worst high schools in California.
9. Belmont High School – Los Angeles, California
Belmont High is frequently regarded as one of the worst high schools in California due to ongoing issues with overcrowding and low academic achievement. At one point, Belmont was among the largest high schools in the United States, serving thousands of students in a cramped environment. This contributed to poor classroom engagement, high dropout rates, and low test scores. While reforms have been attempted, graduation rates remain below state averages, and college readiness is limited. These persistent challenges explain why Belmont is often listed as one of the worst high schools in California.
10. Roosevelt High School – Los Angeles, California
Roosevelt High School, located in Boyle Heights, is another institution considered one of the worst high schools in California. The school has a long history of overcrowding, underfunding, and low student achievement. Academic proficiency in both math and reading has been significantly below state averages, and dropout rates have remained high compared to surrounding schools. Poverty and gang-related issues in the community have also impacted the school environment. Although there have been efforts to revitalize Roosevelt, it remains listed among the worst high schools in California because of its ongoing struggles with performance and resources.
Reasons Why They Are the Worst High Schools in California
- Extremely low proficiency in core subjects such as math and reading compared to state averages.
- High dropout rates that leave many students without a completed high school diploma.
- Chronic teacher turnover that disrupts classroom consistency and learning progress.
- Overcrowded classrooms that make it difficult for teachers to provide individual attention.
- Limited resources, outdated materials, and insufficient extracurricular programs.
- Unsafe facilities and poor infrastructure, including environmental hazards in some schools.
- Community challenges such as crime, poverty, and lack of family support that directly affect students.
- Poor college and career readiness results, leaving graduates unprepared for future opportunities.
Reasons Why You Should Not Attend These Worst High Schools in California
- Attending may reduce your chances of graduating on time due to low academic standards.
- Limited access to advanced placement courses and academic enrichment opportunities.
- Unsafe environments, including discipline problems and potential gang activity.
- Overcrowded classrooms that make learning stressful and less effective.
- A lack of extracurricular activities that help build character, skills, and college applications.
- Poor college counseling and limited career preparation resources.
- Negative reputations that can affect students’ confidence and future opportunities.
Conclusion
The worst high schools in California are defined not only by their low academic results but also by environmental, social, and structural issues that limit student potential. From low test scores to high dropout rates, these schools face persistent challenges that make it difficult for students to thrive. While some districts are working toward reforms, the struggles remain severe. For families, avoiding these schools when possible can help ensure students receive better education and preparation for the future. Ultimately, highlighting the worst high schools in California serves as a call for stronger reforms and investments in education.