San Marcos Senior High School

Awesome school. Fantastic staff. The block schedule really prepares students for college. Their test scores are improving every year.

The block schedule is completely unique in that it really helps prepare you for college, and in my opinion really gives you more time to focus on your class. Instead of having to focus on up to 8 different classes, you can just focus on maybe 3 academics, which really helps in understanding the material. It's also nice, because you can get your homework done in class most of the time, meaning if you have any questions you can get them directly answered by teachers. The school also has a nationally recognized Band program, which went on to play at the Orange bowl last year. Last but not least, we are a CA distinguished school, and we have award winning teachers. We also have the highest test scores out of the three Santa barbara Public high schools.
--Submitted by a student

It's not cliquey, it is very open and relaxed. The education is great, and very specific and the teachers are qualified.
--Submitted by a student

My daughter who is currently attending San Marcos often comes home in tears because the girls there are so mean. The block schedule doesn't help either. She never has homework which seems so unproductive to me. At semester she is transfering to Dos Pueblos which I've heard is the best public high school in Santa Barbara county

I'm a past student and I absolutely loved San Marcos. I took advantage of almost every program they offered- Mock Trial, Varsity Sports, clubs, music, theatre, AP classes- and it was wonderful preparation for college and grad school. I went to UCLA, graduated with honors, and felt very prepared for everything that I encountered. I love the block schedule- it is much more like real life- and the teachers and counselors were incredibly supportive from the moment I stepped on the campus. They have award winning teachers as well. They have a nationally recognized music and theatre arts program, and I was lucky enough to be able to travel both nationally and internationally as a result. School spirit is high, and the vast majority of the students go on to either 2 or 4 year colleges. Most students in the honors track attend prestigious top 50 schools across the nation.
--Submitted by a student

The academic programs at this school are well rounded. Music, arts and sports excel with good quality. The pre-nursing program is highly recommended. Sports programs are working into very good GPAs. 20 out of 22 Varsity sports this year had above a 3.0 GPA. Donations and fundraisers are big supporters for a lot of programs because of state cut-backs but the parents and local businesses work together to make it happen. I have been a parent and a volunteer at this school for 8 years and am proud to say I would recommend this school for students and parents who want to learn and grow and feel proud of their school and the education they received at it.
--Submitted by mary, a parent

The block schedule is not as bad as it seems.
--Submitted by a student

San Marcos is on a modified block schedule, which works very well for performing arts and high level classes, however for lower level students, 90 minutes can be a very long time. Good quality teachers and caring administration, with great extracurriculars.
--Submitted by a teacher

I am actually a graduated student. I must say the block system worked wonders on preparing for college. It is a great campus, and there are many exceptional teachers. I mean many. The administration, especially craig morgan the principal, were helpful and nice. Each school in santa barbara has its advantages. This is a safe school, a good focused school. When I was there we won a 6 year accredidation and became a ca distinguished school. Those are not flops.
--Submitted by Steven, a student

California Distiguished High School 2004-2005. Highest Possible 6-year WASC accreditation. 3 x 4 Block Schedule (90 minute periods).
--Submitted by a teacher