Golden Valley High School

Offers one of the most diverse and unique teaching staffs around.
--Submitted by a parent

I honestly don't think this school has a gang problem I mean, don't all high school have gangs? The only schools I see that tend to have a lower gang population are the schools supported by a wealthier population. This school and MHS are both very good schools and rivalry is always in the air. The classes are very challenging and it is the STUDENT who should be responsible for putting their act together and asking questions to clarify whether they are understanding what the teacher's talking about. The band program is the best in Merced county and I have to give credit to this hardworking program. Well done!
--Submitted by a student

The school has recently been nominated as the top school of the Merced County. The test scores of Golden Valley are high on all the SAT, STAR, CAHSEE, and AP tests. The programs are taught by very qualified teachers. There is a band program, all types of arts, theatre classes, all types of instruments etc... There are lists of enriching electives to be chosen from. Also they do allow a lot of parent evolvement in virtually anything they have.
--Submitted by Kevin Smith, a parent

The elements I see that are good indicators of significant problems are the performances of the white and Asian groups. With the quality of students in these two groups, their scores should be over 800. Quality leadership would provide these numbers. There is more and more turnover in staff as a result of the lack of leadership.
--Submitted by a parent

The academic programs at this school continue to reach the status quo. It's tragic that such a good school suffers from such poor leadership.
--Submitted by a parent

Demographics make this the superior high school in the city. Longtime residents do not realize the difference between the two high schools. Superior leadership has resulted in this change in ranking.
--Submitted by a parent

Great sports programs and great support for the kids when needed.
--Submitted by a parent

Over crowded school where the teachers do not have time, or desire, to give attention to each student. Teachers not open to suggestions for improvement, they get defensive when it is offered. Lax security, anyone can enter from parking lot to school. Teachers more interested in coaching than in working with special needs students. High gang population. Extra curricular activities are available, but take priority over the academics in 99% of cases. parents who are involved in supervising these activities are frequently rude and inconsiderate. For the most part parents are not involved and do not want to know when their students are doing well, or not succeeding. Not a school I would reccomend placing your child in for academic growth, regular or special ed does not benefit the students at this school.
--Submitted by a teacher

The schools attempt to habor unwanted gang violence is unbelievable. Why do our children who we send there to get an education have to walk in fear because the gang situation is out of control.
--Submitted by a parent