Sequoia Union High School District

Sequoia Union High School District
Name	Sequoia Union High School District
Type	Public
Established	1895
Location	San Mateo County, California
Country	United States
Superintendent	Crystal Leach
Students	9,500 (approx.)
Website	www.seq.org

Sequoia Union High School District is a public school district serving students in grades 9-12 in the northern portion of San Mateo County, California. Established in the late 19th century, it operates several comprehensive high schools and alternative education programs within communities such as Redwood City, Menlo Park, and Atherton. The district is known for its academic rigor, significant demographic diversity, and a notable roster of alumni who have achieved prominence in various fields including technology, politics, and the arts.

History

The district was founded in 1895, with its first school, Sequoia High School, opening in Redwood City to serve the San Francisco Peninsula. Early growth was tied to the expansion of the Southern Pacific Railroad and the development of Silicon Valley. Throughout the 20th century, it expanded to include campuses in Menlo Park and Atherton, reflecting the post-World War II population boom. Key historical events include the 1969 integration of Ravenswood High School and ongoing debates over district boundaries with neighboring Jefferson Union High School District.

Schools

The district operates four large comprehensive high schools: Sequoia High School in Redwood City, Carlmont High School in Belmont, Menlo-Atherton High School in Atherton, and Woodside High School in Woodside. It also oversees several alternative programs, including Summit Preparatory Charter High School, Redwood High School, and the Chrysalis School. These institutions serve a wide range of student needs, from International Baccalaureate programs to independent study options.

Demographics

As of the 2022-2023 school year, the district enrolls approximately 9,500 students across its campuses. The student body is highly diverse, with significant populations identifying as Hispanic or Latino, White, Asian, and African American. A considerable number of students are classified as English Learners or come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, qualifying for programs like the National School Lunch Program. This diversity mirrors the broader demographic shifts within San Mateo County and the San Francisco Bay Area.

Governance

The district is governed by a five-member elected Board of Education which sets policy, approves the budget, and hires the Superintendent. The current superintendent is Crystal Leach. The board operates under the guidelines of the California Department of Education and the California Constitution. Regular meetings are held at the district office in Redwood City, and board elections are consolidated with countywide elections administered by the San Mateo County Elections Office.

Academic performance

Schools within the district consistently post high scores on the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress and boast strong Advanced Placement participation rates. Menlo-Atherton High School and Carlmont High School are frequently ranked among the top schools in the state by U.S. News & World Report. The district also hosts specialized programs such as the International Baccalaureate program at Sequoia High School and several Career Technical Education pathways aligned with industries in Silicon Valley.

Notable alumni

The district has produced a wide array of distinguished graduates. From Sequoia High School came John Steinbeck, author of The Grapes of Wrath, and Grateful Dead guitarist Jerry Garcia. Menlo-Atherton High School counts Steve Young of the San Francisco 49ers and James Franco, star of 127 Hours, among its alumni. Carlmont High School graduated Dianne Feinstein, former U.S. Senator, and technology executive Jony Ive, former chief design officer at Apple Inc..

Category:School districts in California Category:Education in San Mateo County, California Category:1895 establishments in California