Fourteen Schools Make U.S. News Best High Schools List

Fourteen high schools in the Long Beach Unified School District have earned rankings on U.S. News and World Report’s list of America’s 2025-2026 Best High Schools. 

The California Academy of Mathematics and Science continues its incredible streak of being ranked at the top of the LBUSD list, earning the title of the fifth-best high school in California and moving up to 38th nationally. Sato Academy of Mathematics and Science made a remarkable improvement, now ranking 13th in California and 112th nationwide. McBride proudly holds 186th position in the state.

Avalon, Browning, Cabrillo, Jordan, Lakewood, Millikan, Poly, Reid, Renaissance, Wilson, and Educational Partnership High School have once again earned their place among 1,646 top high schools in California.

“Congratulations to CAMS and Sato Academy for their outstanding rankings, along with McBride for its continued recognition,” Superintendent Dr. Jill A. Baker said. “We are equally proud of all our high schools represented on this list, as these rankings reflect the dedication of our students and staff. As a district, we pride ourselves on striving for excellence, and it is an honor to see those efforts recognized at the state and national levels.”

Nationally, U.S. News evaluated approximately 17,901 public high schools out of more than 24,000 in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Schools were assessed on various indicators of school quality, and the top-ranked institutions were those that have demonstrated exceptional student outcomes on state-required assessments, high rates of participation and success in college-level exams, and substantial graduation numbers.

This incredible recognition is a reflection of the quality of education offered across Long Beach Unified and the outstanding achievements of its students and staff. Congratulations to our schools!