Skyline High School

Hi Pily,

I have a junior and senior at Skyline.  The IB program started after my kids entered Skyline, I believe the first class are now sophomores.  I've heard that Skyline is in the process of working toward an IB program, but that it is not functioning as a true IB program now. 

In terms of Skyline in general, my kids are both having a very positive experience.  They have taken quite a few AP classes and have taken advantage of the various cool programs at Skyline including music, dance, track, cross country, and leadership.  Older students have given them advice on classes, teachers, activities and they in turn are now trying to be helpful to younger students.  My senior was just accepted at UCLA, UCSD, and Davis.  He is waiting to hear from Cal.  Most of his friends have been accepted at various UC's, and we know of one student accepted at MIT and another at University of Michigan.  Friends from previous years are now studying at Yale and Swarthmore, but I would say UC's are the schools most academic students strive for.  There are a couple of programs which support students as they navigate applying to colleges.

There are many issues at Skyline.  We've struggled with a lot of changes in administration over the past several years.  Some teachers struggle with classroom management, and some students are not so motivated.  However, my kids feel safe, have made really great friends, and have learned to be flexible and understanding as they have gone through high school.  They have encountered many dedicated teachers, coaches, and advisors who have made a tremendous difference in their lives.  My advice to anyone starting at Skyline or any school for that matter, is to not go in thinking that success means doing one particular program or class.  Be open, learn what's working at that time, and take advantage of those things that interest you.  View yourself as part of a community, allow yourself to be helped by it, and make a commitment to help others.

Good luck!