Association of Attending a High-Performing High School With Substance Use Disorder Rate and Health Outcomes in Young Adults

In this quasi-experimental study, the authors delve into the health behaviors and outcomes of students attending high-performing public charter high schools in low-income communities in Los Angeles from March 2013 to November 2021. They use the random admissions lottery to compare students accepted into five high-performing public charter schools to those who were waitlisted. Key findings reveal that male students who attend these schools have better health behaviors and outcomes, especially reduced substance use and obesity. However, the authors find some adverse physical health outcomes for young women. The study underscores the potential of high-performing charter schools as an effective strategy to enhance health, but also emphasizes the need for a more inclusive approach that considers diverse student outcomes.