Database: 2010 O.C. best public high schools

Orange County's best public high schools are succeeding academically, preparing students for college and careers, and providing a safe and supportive environment for learning.

That's the conclusion of The Orange County Register's 2010 report on high school quality, an analysis of standardized test scores, graduation data, enrollment figures and other measures for some 65 comprehensive high school campuses.

Fullerton's Troy High School edged out Oxford Academy in Cypress as the county's best school. Troy's top-notch academic curriculum, and specialized programs and services lead hundreds of students to top colleges each year.

Other top campuses were also awarded Gold, Silver or Bronze medals. This year, four schools won Gold, 16 won Silver and 10 earned Bronze.

Still, our detailed analysis showed that some local schools continue to struggle, the four bottom-ranked were also recently placed on a statewide list of persistent low achievers.

The package

How they did: Our main news story looks at the elements of success and failure for 65 of Orange County's public high schools. We also provide a score of performance measures for the county's continuation and alternative high schools where available.

Oxford vs. Troy: Who's the best? Troy edges Oxford for the No. 1 spot in the O.C. Register rankings for the first time. Take an in-depth look at the approaches taken by these two perennial top dogs.

Database: Get a firsthand look at all the data that led to the rankings. Data ranges from Academic Performance Index to graduation rates to disciplinary actions. New this year are additional Advanced Placement details and the academic rating provided by our data partner, GreatSchools. Review the data and compare your high school.

Elementary schools: Get the lowdown on 388 Orange County public elementary schools, as well as the data behind the rankings.

Middle schools: See our 2010 rankings for 86 county public middle schools, as well as the data behind the rankings.