Top Schools

Go HERE for a map of school districts in our county, Contra Costa County.

Lafayette, Moraga and Orinda Schools
plus Walnut Creek Schools (bottom of page)

NEWS FLASH: Sept. 4, 2008: Our local Acalanes High School District ranks as the highest scoring high school district in California with an Academic Performance Index (API) of 886.

Below is a letter from district superintendent, Jim Negri, announcing the latest scores.

Superintendent's Message 2008

Jim Negri, Superintendent
Acalanes Union High School District
(925) 280-3900 x6602
jnegri@acalanes.k12.ca.us

I am very pleased to report that the Acalanes Union High School District continues to rank as the highest performing California high school district based on the 2008 Academic Performance Index (API) released by the California Department of Education (CDE) this morning, September 4, 2008.

As a result of ongoing academic efforts focused on student achievement throughout our schools, the district posted an API of 886, a 4 point increase from 2007. (Note: The CDE considers a score of 800 as exemplary.)

Since our strategic plan is based on continuous improvement, I am thrilled that the district API increased for the fourth consecutive year. While the API is an important number and will receive a great deal of media play, I am most pleased by continuous improvement, which our students have demonstrated.

API-2004-2008

The API scores for the past two years for each school are listed in the table below.

API-Schools-2008

1 While serving an important role in our educational community, the CIS results reflect the performance of only 15 students. Consequentially, the CIS results may be subject to significant year-to-year statistical fluctuations.

Thank you to our motivated students, dedicated educators and support staff, and supportive parents and community for their ongoing efforts which result in outstanding API scores.

For additional information on API scores, see California Department of Education website.

Jim Negri, Superintendent
(925) 280-3900 x6602
jnegri@acalanes.k12.ca.us

Here is last year's Superintendent's Message:

Superintendent's Message 2007

Based on the 2006 California Standardized Testing and Reporting Program (STAR) results released today, AUHSD ranks as the highest scoring high school district in the state with an Academic Performance Index (API) of 882, up from 869 in 2006.

These scores strongly indicate that the continuous improvement efforts and commitment of our teachers, support staff, administrators, and community do make a difference in student learning and achievement. Our staff carefully analyzes all of the assessment data to identify areas for future growth. While we are successful, we must continually focus on making certain that all students meet our academic standards.

All AUHSD schools demonstrated academic growth on this state-mandated measurement. Miramonte High School joins Campolindo High School in the select group of high schools scoring above the 900 mark on the API. A score of 800 is considered exemplary on the state's 1,000-point scale. Acalanes, Las Lomas, and Del Oro High Schools also demonstrated impressive gains.

Thank you to our generous commmunity for your support and congratulations to our teachers, students and staff. I look forward to working with you as the District continues the important work of improving and enhancing its instructional program.

Jim Negri, Superintendent
(925) 280-3900 x6602
jnegri@acalanes.k12.ca.us

AUHSD Academic Performance Index (API) Six Year Growth Comparison

API Chart
AHS-Acalanes High School, Lafayette
CHS-Campolindo High School, Moraga
LLHS-Las Lomas High School, Walnut Creek
MHS-Miramonte High School, Orinda

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Our Local Schools:
The #1 reason many families choose the Lamorinda area.

Residents here place a great deal of value on education. Many volunteer to help for several hours a week in classrooms. School open houses for parents are very well attended.

Which school is best?
Do you prefer strawberry,vanilla or chocolate?

The local schools all have good reputations. Choosing one over the other would be quite difficult. There is no school or school district to my knowledge that stands out as being BEST in Lamorinda. Consult the individual schools for more specific information on their programs so you'll be able to find what best fits your child's needs.

Since the schools are highly rated in each of the three communities, most buyers select their home first and their children attend the school in their neighborhood area. Everyone is different though and if your child has some specific needs, contact the local school district or set up an appointment with one of the school principals.

I've put together a page featuring test score comparisons for the schools. You'll find that at Star Test Results.

Also, here's two sites that compare the various schools districts in California and schools within the districts: www.greatschools.net and www.schoolwisepress.com. There may be other sites that do the same but I came across these. I don't know how accurate they are, but they should give you a general idea of how the schools might compare in test results. Obviously, test scores aren't everything.

Each community in Lamorinda has their own elementary school district.

At the high school level, students attend the Acalanes High School District. That district covers Lamorinda plus part of Walnut Creek.

Check out the individual schools and their programs below.

LAFAYETTE ELEMENTARY DISTRICT