Two Orange County campuses have earned national recognition in an annual ranking of charter schools.
Niche, a platform that analyzes and compares schools across the United States, evaluates nearly 100,000 institutions based on academic performance, parent and student feedback, and other factors. The organization creates detailed profiles for schools and universities, assigning grades based on this data. Recently, Niche released its 2025 Best Schools report.
Orange County School of the Arts — often referred to as OCSA — was named the No. 1 best charter high school in California and ranked No. 10 best charter high school in the country. The campus, which serves students in grades 7 through 12, also placed first in Orange County for both charter and public high schools.
OCSA aims to offer a welcoming environment where students pursue rigorous college-preparatory academics alongside pre-professional arts training in one of 17 conservatories. The donation-dependent school fosters both artistic and academic excellence.
“OCSA’s success is a direct result of our phenomenal students, parents, teachers, staff and community partners,” Teren Shaffer, president and CEO of OCSA, said. “I am tremendously grateful to the entire OCSA family for making our school the amazing place that it is today. Our 2025 Niche rankings reflect not only our students’ passion for the arts, but also their deep commitment to learning. I could not be more proud of our amazing campus community!”
Joining the school of the arts in the top ranks, Oxford Preparatory Academy – Saddleback Valley, which serves students from pre-kindergarten through fifth grade, was ranked the No. 3 best charter elementary school in California and 73rd among all public elementary schools in the state.
According to the school, OPA emphasizes individualized learning through the theory of multiple intelligences, challenging students in a safe and caring environment. The tuition-free charter school operates multiple campuses in South Orange County, with both elementary campuses receiving the 2023 California Distinguished School Award and being named 2023 National Schools to Watch.
“This achievement reflects our commitment to nurturing the whole child through our innovative approach, grounded in Howard Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences,” said Principal Adam Wright. “At OPA-SV, we believe every child is gifted, and we provide unique educational opportunities that foster both social and academic excellence.”
“Our success is a testament to the dedication of our teachers, students, and families, who work together to create an environment where all students can thrive.”
Both schools operate under the charter authorization of the Orange County Board of Education.
For more information on the 2025 Niche Best Schools rankings, visit niche.com/k12.