Welcome
Welcome to Balboa Gifted/High Ability Magnet! The mission of Balboa Magnet, crafted by our school community, is to engage students in an accelerated and challenging program that empowers gifted and high-achieving learners to excel academically and develop into responsible citizens. We encourage our students to embrace a disciplinary mindset to solve problems and understand the world around them. Our full magnet campus of gifted and high-ability students should work at a pace suited to their abilities, delving into the curriculum with greater depth and complexity. We are committed to preparing 21st-century learners to think critically, make informed decisions, collaborate effectively, and grow as lifelong learners.
Balboa scholars engage in enriching experiences through a collaboration of teachers and administration. Some examples include:
- Hands-on STEAM Lab
- Coding and Programming Computer Classes
- Botanical studies in the Balboa Gardens and Life Cycle Pond
- Instrumental music program
- Vocal music program
- Student newsletter
- Afterschool Robotics Club
- Three-day adventure at Pali Camp
Since 1968, Balboa Gifted Magnet has welcomed thousands of gifted and high-ability students through its doors, and graduated some of the most well-prepared, disciplined, and top-performing students in the state. Built upon the dedication of its talented educators, Balboa Magnet holds several honorable distinctions:
- National Merit School of Distinction by Magnet Schools of America 2024
- National Blue Ribbon School 1988 & 2021
- California Gold Ribbon School 2022
- California Distinguished School
- LAUSD Model of Excellence School 2022
- Ranked #3 elementary school in LAUSD by U.S. News
- Ranked #18 elementary school in California by U.S. News