Lowell High School Reviews (2024)

Rating 5 out of 5

This review is from an Alumni of Lowell, back when their moniker was the "Indians" before they became the "Cardinals" as a graduating member of The Class of 1986.

It was a wonderful experience where Lowell had the reputation of being the top public school west of the Mississippi as a magnet school students needed to apply for entry and earn their way in (albeit the system did make adjustments known as "Minority Points" as their way of handicapping certain groups as part of an effort towards diversity and inclusion) for Non-Caucasian / Non-Asian's (not Incl. Filipino or APA) who were the dominant majority of the student body.

I felt that Lowell created a bit of camaraderie and competition that helped students aspire to greater levels and optimize their peak potential in education. Homework wasn't a chore, but a necessity to meet or beat goals. It was a great environment for learning, a safe haven for academia. It also enjoyable, social and fun as a student of Lowell High.

Rating 4 out of 5

I believe that Lowell High School is a rigorous academic high school that helps students prepare for college.

Rating 5 out of 5

Lowell High School is known for its academic competitiveness. As a high school senior here, it definitely lives up to that expectation. Many of the students here are very academically motivated and that makes me better as a student, because I feel I have to match the standard and work equally as hard. I feel it has definitely made me more prepared for college. Although the competitiveness has forced me to be a better student, it has made college admissions way harder because there are many people with higher GPAs than you applying to the same colleges. From what I have heard from students who attend other high schools, I can compare that Lowell has faster-paced classes, and study harder concepts. The teachers here are typically very qualified, but might not support you individually very much due to the amount of work, and larger class sizes. There are many sports and clubs to join from. I participated in a volunteer group, was on the football team, and even created a lacrosse team!

• Senior
• 2 months ago

Rating 4 out of 5

The culture at Lowell puts a lot of pressure on student to do anything to get an A. For some that means staying up all night to study, for others that means taking Adderall to help cram. There are so many classes to choose from and there is definitely something for everyone, as long as you don’t get caught up in the stress.

• Senior
• 3 months ago

Rating 2 out of 5

Academics in Lowell is pretty well-done since classes and extracurricular activities gives students' to explore their interests and hobbies. Having multiple honor and AP classes, clubs and programs, and administrative resources for college readiness. However, due to how competitive Lowell is it brings a lot of pressure to students to accomplish multiple awards, attend many clubs, and fill up on AP or honor classes to fulfill Lowell's high-achieving "expectations" of going to UCs. This leads to many students suffering from burnt-outs, anxiety, stress, uncertainty, and lack of time to seek a wellness professional. Another aspect that Lowell lacks in diversity is since majority of its demographic ranges from East Asians, White, and multiracial backgrounds. Thus, the main aspects I want Lowell to improve on is diversity and less-strenuous academic environment with more provided wellness resources since a students' health should be a school's number one priority for them succeed.

Rating 4 out of 5

Lowell, overall, has been an amazing experience for me. It is awesome to go to a school where everyone truly cares about working hard and learning. Additionally, students are very engaged in extracurriculars and the sports and arts groups are very strong. Teachers are generally kind and open to helping students after hours.

On the flip side of Lowell's academic engagement is its competitive atmosphere. Over my four years here, I have found myself buying into the comparison culture, always defining myself based on what others are doing.

If I had to do it over again, I would 100% pick Lowell. The highly academically focused environment, despite its downsides, has pushed me to manage my time and priorities. I have formed lasting connections with amazing teachers and peers. I know the work ethic I have learned here will carry me far.

Rating 3 out of 5

In my experience this school isn't very diverse. Majority of the student body is Asian and many Latino and Black student report feeling ostracized. While we have a wonderful art teacher, this school doesn't care about the arts. All the focus is on the science and mathematics. The competitive atmosphere at this school can be stifling. However it does prepare you for college, the workload and lectures are college-like.

Rating 4 out of 5

Lowell is definitely a great high school. Before attending, I was told how academically challenging and how stressful it would be. I think this is only true if you choose to make it this way. There are very few schools that offer more AP courses than Lowell. Although it's important to challenge yourself, I see many of my peers taking AP classes just to take AP classes. I think by understanding how much coursework you can handle, you can create a great high school experience.

• Senior
• 4 months ago

Rating 3 out of 5

Hi! Thank you so much for reaching out. Because of the large class sizes, there is definitely a lack of attention from teachers at Lowell—most teachers have a total of 130 students spread across about 5 periods, so it can be really easy to get lost in the shuffle if you don't make yourself known. Coming from a smaller school, it may be a bit difficult to adjust in the beginning, but a lot of the time, teachers just want you to talk to them. Emailing teachers, going to office hours, and approaching teachers after class are all ways to make yourself known. In terms of support, it's the same thing—teachers usually don't know that you're struggling unless you talk to them. Usually, if you just tell them what's going on and if you need more support, they'll be really helpful. Thank you so much for your questions, and feel free to send more!

Rating 4 out of 5

Lowell is a very academically challenging school, and for most of my time at Lowell, I felt really strong imposter syndrome. I was always comparing myself with my peers and always felt like I had to do more to improve my resume and catalog of awards / achievements. Trying to get good grade wasn’t enough, I felt like I had to take as many AP classes as possible, while being active in as many extracurriculars as possible. This type of mindset has stuck with me even after graduating from Lowell. Looking back on high school, I still feel like I didn’t do enough and regret not joining more clubs. Despite this, I would still say that I overall enjoyed my high school experience, mainly due to the people that surrounded me. Some of my favorites people that I’ve had the pleasure of meeting, both peers and teachers, come from Lowell. There are some really great teachers that I ended up meeting, who truly push you to improve and teach with a passion.

Rating 4 out of 5

Lowell high school is very difficult to get into, but it is worth it. They have very good academics, and a wide array of clubs and sports to join. The homework does take some time, and there is a lot of work required to get a good grade. But if you are willing to put in the effort you can do very well in this school.

Rating 4 out of 5

Lowell High School prepares its students for college and its academic rigor allows students to experience how college will feel like before going. The community is very welcoming and everyone supports each other. The only downsides would be the frequent fire alarms and the bathrooms' lack of dividers between the urinals.

• Senior
• 7 months ago

Rating 5 out of 5

Dedicated staff, wide variety of clubs, sports, and AP classes - great college center/support staff.

• Senior
• 8 months ago

Rating 4 out of 5

I was a freshman in Lowell last year and my experience their was very interesting. When I first got in I was very stressed because Lowell was know as the best school in San Francisco. All my friends want to get in but out of my friend group I was the only one who made it in. The first couple of weeks at Lowell where confusing, who do I sit with ? Where do I belong? will this school work? But as the year went by I found some amazing friends and amazing teachers would I loved even if I did not really enjoy their class. Lowell I will say had a fair share of problems but overall I’m happy I went to Lowell and I can’t wait to see what else I gain and learn from Lowell.

Rating 4 out of 5

The students have a ton of school pride and push themselves and each other to excel in every way. My student really appreciates the abundant choice of activities, clubs, sports, and classes (lots of h=Honors, APs, and electives). The majority of teachers are excellent educators, have challenging and up-to-date curricula, grade fairly, and hold their students to a high standard of performance. The administration and guidance counselors really care about the students and do what they can to support them. The PTSA and Alumni Association are actively involved in supporting the school. The big problem is the lack of adequate support from the San Francisco Unified school district for teachers, programs, building maintenance, furnishing and equipment, materials, etc.