By Paul Little
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San Dimas, CA – Bonita High School was recently named to Newsweek magazine’s list of the top 1200 high schools in the United States. Ranked number 395, Bonita was recognized for offering students courses necessary to be competitive for admission to college. “Education is about giving young people the opportunity to learn, grow and succeed,” said Bonita Principal Bob Ketterling. “We are very pleased that Bonita High School was recognized by Newsweek for providing an excellent curriculum that supports our students’ college ambitions. It’s a team effort here at Bonita and the credit really goes to our talented and dedicated teachers and staff and especially our students.” Newsweek ranked the top 5% of high schools in the country according to its formula that examines the number of Advanced Placement (AP) tests that are taken as compared to the number of seniors in the school. There are more than 24,000 high schools in the country. Of those, 1200 are named to the Newsweek list of top schools. By ranking 395th on the list, Bonita High School is recognized by the news magazine as one of the top 2% of all high schools in the United States. Newsweek ranks American high schools annually based on a formula described by writers Barbara Kantrowitz and Pat Wingert as recognizing, “how committed the school is to helping kids take college-level courses. We think students at those schools have an edge, no matter their economic background.” |
In creating its rankings, Newsweek divides the number of AP tests taken by the number of graduating seniors. That produces a formula that Newsweek uses to analyze the college attendance opportunity offered to students by any given high school. In 2005, 369 Bonita High students took 737 AP tests. Tests were offered in fifteen subjects, including Calculus, Physics, English Language, English Literature, Chemistry, Environmental Science, Spanish Language and US History. One third of the senior class passed one or more AP exams. More than 75% of Bonita High School seniors go on to attend college. “I am pleased that the excellent program at Bonita High School has been recognized by Newsweek,” said Bonita Unified Superintendent Dr. Robert C. Otto. “Congratulations to their academic team – the teachers, administrators and staff – and the hard working and dedicated students at Bonita High School.” Bonita Unified School District works in partnership with the community to create a safe, challenging and comprehensive learning environment that will shape character, nurture intellect and build skills for success in an ever-changing world. |