Lowell High School

Founded in 1856 in San Francisco, Lowell High School is the oldest public high school west of the Mississippi. It is ranked as one of the highest performing public high schools in California, and has been recognized 4 times as a National Blue Ribbon School, 8 times as a California Distinguished School, and one time as a Gold Ribbon School. Lowell has been consistently ranked #1 in the Western Region for the number of Advanced Placement Exams given.

In addition, Lowell offers 100 active clubs and service organizations and a comprehensive athletic program, with 32 teams playing 27 sports. Our elective program boasts the largest Visual and Performing Arts Department in the city and a World Language Department of eight languages. All students have equal access to all classes, as well as academic and personal support through its Wellness, Peer Resources and CSF Tutoring Programs.

The curriculum is sequential to ensure high academic achievement, aligned with common core curriculum standards, graduation requirements, and A-G subject requirements for CSU/UC Admissions. Our commitment at Lowell is to prepare students for their next step in life. We develop opportunities for all stakeholders to participate in a meaningful way. Lowell's PTSA and Alumni are a vital part in maintaining Lowell's excellence.

Mission Link to this section

Lowell High School’s mission is to encourage the individuals who attend to contribute their skills, creativity, and intellect to benefit both themselves and the wider community of which they are a part.

Philosophy Link to this section

Underlying Lowell’s philosophy of education is the resolve that the young people of San Francisco continue to enjoy their traditional option of attending a college preparatory public high school. The emphasis requires an instructional program that promotes sound intellectual and aesthetic values while providing opportunities for self- discipline and individual decision-making. Lowell endeavors to create a just and equitable society where individual responsibilities are clearly defined and personal rights guaranteed. It endorses the concept of an integrated school where cultural and social diversity enrich the lives of all students.

Lowell's Expected Schoolwide Learning Results (ESLR) Link to this section

• Scholars Link to this section

  • Build on acquired knowledge across the curriculum
  • Master the academic and participatory skills necessary for success
  • Explore real world connections to the curriculum

• Creative and Critical Thinkers Link to this section

  • Apply higher-order thinking skills to address issues across the curriculum
  • Develop models to aid in understanding complex problems
  • Evaluate the validity and credibility of claims, data, and sources

• Effective Communicators Link to this section

  • Listen actively, read analytically and critically, speak and write clearly and confidently
  • Use digital, print, and artistic media proficiently and with integrity
  • Interact with social media responsibly and constructively

• Self-Directed Learners Link to this section

  • Establish priorities and use time efficiently
  • Advocate for their educational experience and success
  • Practice habits of positive mental, physical, and social health
  • Act with honesty and integrity

• Positive and Productive Citizens Link to this section

  • Contribute time, energy, and talent to improve the quality of life locally and globally
  • Help promote an equitable and just society
  • Engage respectfully and civilly with people of varying backgrounds and perspectives