David Go
Palo Alto, California, is renowned for its vibrant educational landscape, attracting families seeking top-tier academic institutions. When it comes to high schools, the city and its surrounding areas offer a diverse range of options, each with its unique strengths, community focus, and academic programs. This comprehensive guide provides detailed information on some of the most prominent high schools in and around Palo Alto, highlighting their unique features, facilities, and accessibility to help you make informed decisions. Discover what makes each school a distinct choice for high school education in this dynamic Silicon Valley community.
Henry M Gunn High School
Nestled in the tranquil Arastradero Preserve area, Henry M Gunn High School is a highly acclaimed public school known for its rigorous academic programs, diverse student body, and strong emphasis on intellectual curiosity. Students benefit from a wide array of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, robust STEM offerings, and a vibrant arts and athletics scene. The school fosters an inclusive atmosphere, promoting critical thinking and community engagement. Its expansive campus includes modern facilities and dedicated spaces for various activities, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience. Gunn High School is a cornerstone of the Palo Alto community, consistently preparing students for success in higher education and beyond.
Type
- ✔ High school
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
Palo Alto High School
Palo Alto High School, affectionately known as ‘Paly,’ is a historic and dynamic institution situated in the heart of Palo Alto. With a rich tradition of academic excellence and innovation, Paly offers a comprehensive curriculum, including extensive elective programs in journalism, visual arts, and performing arts. The school boasts state-of-the-art athletic facilities and a thriving student life, with numerous clubs and organizations. Its central location provides easy access to community resources, enriching the student experience. Paly is dedicated to fostering a supportive and challenging environment where students are encouraged to explore their passions, develop leadership skills, and achieve their full potential.
Type
- ✔ High school
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
Living Wisdom High School
Living Wisdom High School offers a unique, holistic educational approach, emphasizing personal growth and self-discovery alongside academic rigor. Located within the Cubberley Community Center, this private high school provides a nurturing environment where students are encouraged to develop their intellectual, emotional, and spiritual capacities. The curriculum integrates traditional subjects with mindfulness practices and experiential learning, fostering creativity and critical thinking. With a focus on small class sizes and individualized attention, Living Wisdom High School creates a close-knit community where every student feels valued and supported in their journey toward academic success and personal well-being.
Type
- ✔ High school
Parking options
- ✔ Free parking lot
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
The Kehillah School
The Kehillah School is a vibrant, pluralistic Jewish high school that combines challenging college-preparatory academics with a rich Jewish education. Located conveniently on Fabian Way, Kehillah provides a supportive and engaging community where students from diverse backgrounds thrive. The school emphasizes critical thinking, intellectual curiosity, and ethical leadership, preparing students for success in a rapidly changing world. Beyond the classroom, students participate in a wide range of extracurricular activities, including arts, athletics, and social action programs, fostering a strong sense of identity and connection. Kehillah is dedicated to nurturing well-rounded individuals who are prepared to make meaningful contributions to society.
Type
- ✔ High school
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
KIPP Esperanza High School
KIPP Esperanza High School, located in East Palo Alto, is part of the national KIPP (Knowledge Is Power Program) network, committed to providing rigorous, college-preparatory education to underserved communities. The school focuses on academic excellence, character development, and creating a supportive learning environment that empowers students to succeed. With a dedicated team of educators, KIPP Esperanza offers a challenging curriculum designed to prepare students for college and beyond. The school fosters a strong sense of community and instills values of perseverance and ambition, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to achieve their dreams and become leaders in their communities.
Type
- ✔ High school
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
Meira Academy
Meira Academy is a private, all-girls Jewish high school dedicated to providing an outstanding academic and spiritual education. Situated on Fabian Way, the academy offers a nurturing and intellectually stimulating environment where young women can grow confidently in their Jewish identity and academic pursuits. The curriculum is rigorous, designed to prepare students for top universities, while also fostering a deep understanding of Jewish texts and traditions. Meira Academy emphasizes personalized attention, empowering each student to discover her unique strengths and talents. The close-knit community encourages leadership, compassion, and a lifelong love of learning, creating a supportive sisterhood that extends beyond graduation.
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
Los Altos High School
While technically located in Los Altos, Los Altos High School serves a broader community, including parts of Palo Alto, and is recognized for its strong academic reputation and diverse opportunities. The school offers a comprehensive curriculum with a wide selection of AP courses, robust athletic programs, and a thriving performing arts department. Students benefit from modern facilities and a supportive faculty dedicated to fostering intellectual curiosity and personal growth. Los Altos High School cultivates a vibrant and inclusive campus culture, encouraging students to engage in extracurricular activities, develop leadership skills, and contribute positively to their community, preparing them for success in college and beyond.
Type
- ✔ High school
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
East Palo Alto Academy
East Palo Alto Academy is a distinguished public charter high school dedicated to providing a rigorous college-preparatory education to students in East Palo Alto. The academy is committed to creating a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment that empowers students to achieve their full potential. With a strong focus on academic excellence, critical thinking, and social emotional learning, the school prepares students for success in higher education and meaningful careers. East Palo Alto Academy fosters a close-knit community where teachers and staff work collaboratively to ensure every student receives personalized attention and the resources needed to thrive, building a foundation for lifelong learning and civic engagement.
Type
- ✔ High school
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
Palo Alto and its neighboring communities are rich with exceptional high school options, each offering distinct educational philosophies and environments. From large public institutions with extensive extracurriculars to smaller, specialized academies, families have a wealth of choices to find the perfect fit for their students. We hope this guide has provided valuable insights into the locations, offerings, and unique attributes of high schools in Palo Alto, CA, empowering you to explore these institutions further and make the best decision for your educational journey.
