Gahr High School finalist for America's Best School Award

CERRITOS — Each year, the National Center for Urban School Transformation (NCUST) presents the America’s Best Schools Award to the nation’s highest-performing schools. The NCUST recently announced the 12 finalists for this year’s award, including Gahr High School.

“As the Superintendent and a former Gahr High School principal, administrator, and teacher, I’m so proud to see the school’s name on this list,” said Superintendent Dr. Gina Zietlow. “This type of recognition comes from the commitment from students, teachers, staff, and families, all working together to ensure every student succeeds.”

NCUST looks at specific criteria and data during the America’s Best School Award process. These criteria include low-income eligibility, non-selective admissions, high academic proficiency rates for all student groups, high attendance rates, and low suspension rates. High schools must also meet additional criteria, including high graduation rates, the percentage of students earning college credit or participating in advanced placement courses, and the percentage of first-year students advancing to the second year.

“Wow! I’m so proud of Gahr High School, and I’m so thankful to our families and staff for working so hard to help our students,” said Board of Education President Mrs. Sophia Tse. “Our schools are doing amazing things for our students, and it’s great when one is recognized nationally for their hard work and dedication.”

Gahr High School, located in Cerritos, California, serves over 1,600 9th-12th grade students. As a Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math magnet school, students are exposed to a rigorous curriculum preparing them for college and careers. The school offers Career Technical Education pathways in biomedical sciences, computer science, engineering, automotive, gaming, sports medicine, theater production, and video production. Through a partnership with Cerritos College, Gahr High School also offers dual enrollment classes where students can earn college credits while in high school.

NCUST, part of the San Diego State University College of Education, has been studying and recognizing our nation’s most successful schools and school districts.