These are some of the top-rated public schools in Palo Alto Unified School District based on a variety of measures. Find out more about GreatSchools ratings.
ACADEMICS
Academic Summary
Is this district offering opportunity for all its students, or leaving some kids behind? Successful districts are working to close the achievement gap.
ACADEMICS
Rigorous courses can help students prepare for and get into college, including coursework in STEM subjects. Find out more.
Parent Tip
Many successful high school students end up in remedial math courses in college. Is your student prepared for college-level math? Ask this district how they ensure students are well-prepared.
STUDENT LIFE
Student Demographics
Schools that create a positive culture help all students thrive. See how.
STUDENT LIFE
Teachers & Staff
Parents often value small class sizes, but the truth is more complicated.
STUDENT LIFE
District Calendar
STUDENT LIFE
District Finances
How a school district allocates funds can reflect its priorities. Learn more about how these decisions are made.
Parent Tip
District decisions about how to spend money impact your child’s schooling. Here’s how parents can have an influence.
STUDENT LIFE
Reviews From Schools in Palo Alto Unified School District
Would you like to add a review to a school in this district?
Parent / Guardian
August 01, 2025
My child attended Hoover from K-2nd grade. We had an overall great experience here -- my daughter started off having a tough transition to Kindergarten because she was on the younger side and wasn't... More
Review for
Herbert Hoover Elementary School
Other (school staff, family member, recent alum, etc)
April 13, 2025
I went here 2010-2014. It's true that a lot of students did get outside tutoring but I never did, and I did very well at this school (skipped a lot of classes in university from AP credits, and... More
Review for
Henry M. Gunn High School
Parent / Guardian
January 17, 2025
Our family absolutely adores this gem of a school. It is blessed with experienced teachers in every grade who continuously look for opportunities to develop their curriculum and also how to make... More
Review for
Walter Hays Elementary School