Why the Culver City Unified School District Is So Highly Regarded
Academic Excellence
CCUSD consistently ranks among the top 20% of all public school districts in California. Students place in the top 10% statewide for math proficiency and in the top 20% for reading/language arts. The average graduation rate is an impressive 95%. Students score well above state averages on standardized tests, with 63% proficient in reading and 50% in math. As stated earlier, Culver City High School is recognized nationally. It ranks among the top-performing public high schools in the country. CCHS excels in Advanced Placement (AP) and college readiness metrics.
Diversity and Inclusion
CCUSD is celebrated as one of the most diverse school districts in Los Angeles County. It was recently named the third most diverse district in California. The student body represents a broad mix of ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds. The district’s commitment to equity, inclusion, and the social-emotional well-being of students is a core part of its mission. Programs and initiatives support the whole child. This emphasis is one of the aspects of CCUSD that is truly unique.
Innovative and Enriching Programs
CCUSD offers robust STEM and STEAM initiatives. The district emphasizes science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics in its curriculum. Students can also join dual language immersion programs (Japanese and Spanish). On top of that is the renowned Academy of Visual and Performing Arts at Culver High School.
Special education services are also available. There are also a wide array of extracurricular activities. These include sports, arts, and academic clubs. The district is designated as an “Arts for All” (now called Arts Ed Collective) district, with strong support for performing and visual arts at all grade levels.
Strong Community and Support
The Culver City Education Foundation (CCEF) and active PTAs, booster clubs, and community partnerships provide significant financial and volunteer support, enhancing educational opportunities beyond what public funding alone can offer. The community’s ongoing support is reflected in successful local funding measures, such as parcel taxes and school bonds, which help maintain and improve facilities and resources. This is one of the most important pieces of the puzzle to CCUSD’s success. The school system enjoys community support and engagement. Voters continually vote in favor of measures to fund the district (such as Measure E last year).
Recognized Success
CCUSD is regularly recognized at local, state, and national levels for its academic achievement, distinguished schools, and collaborative leadership. In summary, the Culver City Unified School District stands out for its combination of academic rigor, diversity, innovative programs, strong community engagement, and a holistic approach to student development. This makes it one of the most respected school districts in California, if not all of the United States.
Current Initiatives and Programs
CCUSD is committed to academic excellence and student well-being through a variety of initiatives:
Facilities Modernization
As stated above, Measure E passed with a proposed $358 million bond measure. It aims to address aging infrastructure, improve safety, and update instructional technology, science labs, and libraries. A lot of the buildings were built in the 1950s and haven’t been updated since then. Community input was sought through advisory committees and listening sessions. The goal was to prioritize projects based on school needs and unique programs.
Academic and Enrichment Programs
Compared to many districts across the United States, CCUSD offers more opportunities to engage with academics and other forms of enrichment.
- STEM: MakerSpaces and learning gardens at every elementary school, Mathletes for grades 4–8, and a robotics team at the high school foster hands-on learning and innovation.
- Arts: The Front & Center Theater Collaborative brings professional theater into classrooms, and the Academy of Visual and Performing Arts offers intensive programs in film, music, theater, visual arts, and dance.
- College Preparation: Programs like Sailing to Success College Visit Days introduce students to college campuses from elementary through middle school. The Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) program supports first-generation college-bound students.
- Student Support Services: The Sandy Segal Youth Health Center provides on-campus health services. The Culver Closet offers free clothing and toiletries to families in need. Athletes & Academics supports student-athletes in balancing sports and academics. Annual spelling bees, library support for culturally relevant books, and nutrition education are also district-wide priorities.
Why is The Culver City Unified School District Exceptional?
In summary, the Culver City Unified School District stands out for its combination of academic rigor, diversity, innovative programs, strong community engagement, and a holistic approach to student development. These make it one of the most respected school districts in California… if not all of the United States. No wonder parents are drawn to Culver City to give their children the best opportunity possible.