Oh, neat. There’s just updated API data for CA schools earlier this week on 5/13.

I’m finding all the information both pleasant and frustrating. Pleasant that it’s available for all so easily, yet tricky to understand in plain English.

What I looked at is the API data files 2009-2010 (2009 Base API-Data File DBF). Below are the top ten CA High School rankings without looking at special education, alternative models (ASAM), small size, or charter schools.

2009-2010 CA Base API High Schools

1. Gretchen Whitney High
2. Oxford Academy
3. California Academy of Mathematics and Sc
4. Mission San Jose High
5. Lowell High
6. San Marino High
7. Monta Vista High
8. Saratoga High
9. Miramonte High
10. Troy High

Note that Lynbrook is next at #11 after Troy High.

For comparison, here is the same list based on the Growth API instead of Base.

2009-2010 CA Growth API High Schools

1. Gretchen Whitney High
2. Oxford Academy
3. California Academy of Mathematics and Sc
4. Lowell High
5. Mission San Jose High
6. San Marino High
7. Monta Vista High
8. Saratoga High
9. Miramonte High
10. Lynbrook High

Troy is #11 in the growth basis.

The list is largely unchanged between the base and the subsequent growth API update.

I think it’s interesting since I attended Monta Vista High and students largely hold a grudge against MV for being so book focused and competitive. Parents, on the other hand, do whatever they can to get into the school so that their children will have a (theoretically) better future.

Disclaimer: I am not familiar with CA school rankings so my analysis may not take into consideration something that another person may view as key.