Back to Blog
AdvocacyFebruary 15, 2026

Why Every Family Should Consider Public School

By Public School Advocates

The data is clear: SFUSD graduates are accepted to UC schools at a rate 15 percentage points higher than non-public school students.

The UC Acceptance Advantage

SFUSD graduates achieve a 76.5% UC acceptance rate — 15 percentage points above the rate for local non-public school graduates. This challenges the widespread assumption that private schools deliver superior academic preparation.

Diversity Benefits Everyone

Research consistently shows that diverse school environments benefit all students. Students from marginalized backgrounds see improved outcomes, while peers from more privileged backgrounds are not negatively affected.

The Funding Equation

Each additional student enrolled in a public school generates upwards of $10,000 annually in operating budget, while fixed costs remain largely independent of enrollment. When families choose public school, they're not just investing in their own child's education — they're strengthening the system for everyone.