SMMUSD earns high marks in Niche survey
By Sam Catanzaro
The Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District (SMMUSD) is among the top-20 school districts in California and one of the top-10 districts to teach in, according to a recent survey
National academic ranking service, Niche recently published its annual 2022 Best School Districts in California survey. SMMUSD is ranked eighth in Los Angeles County and 18th in California of 438 school districts included. Factors include state test scores, college readiness, graduation rates, SAT and ACT scores, teacher quality, public school district ratings and more.
“We are honored to be recognized for the extraordinary achievements of our students and teachers,” Superintendent Dr. Ben Drati said. “We are dedicated to providing the education and support all students need for success as they embark on college and career, in order to lead meaningful, engaged lives beyond our halls.”
Additionally, Niche awarded both Santa Monica High School and Malibu High School “A”s for both their educational outcomes and academics, which includes proficiency in math and reading, and graduation and college enrollment rates.
John Adams Middle School, Lincoln Middle School and SMASH middle school, all received an A or A+ grade, while all SMMUSD elementary schools earned an A+, A or A-.
Niche also ranked the best places to teach in California and SMMUSD ranked fifth of 689, and ranked best teachers in the state, with SMMUSD placing ninth of 689.
“I am so proud of our entire Santa Monica-Malibu community – the students, parents, faculty and staff for this honorable recognition,” Dr. Drati said. “The last year was extremely challenging and we continue to be student focused including academic success and social emotional wellbeing.”
