About Us

The Delano Joint Union High School District (DJUHSD) is a community of rich tradition, high expectations, and more than a century of achievement. Delano High School opened in 1911 with 14 students and two teachers. Today, our district serves ~4,000 students across four high schools and employs hundreds of dedicated professionals committed to student success. Cesar E. Chavez High School opened in 2003, Robert F. Kennedy High School in 2008, and we also operate Valley High School, our alternative site. Our Delano Adult School provides flexible pathways- high school diploma, career skills, and health programs- to adult learners across Delano and surrounding communities.

Excellence & Recognition

Our schools consistently earn state and national recognition:

• California Distinguished Schools: Delano High School and Cesar E. Chavez High School in 2026. 
• National ESEA Distinguished School: Cesar E. Chavez High School—2012 and again in 2025 for exceptional performance and growth. 
• U.S. News & World Report Best High Schools (Bakersfield–Delano Metro Ranking): Cesar E. Chavez #1, Robert F. Kennedy #3, Delano High #4 (2025 release). 
• California Exemplary District: DJUHSD was recognized among California’s Exemplary Districts (2019) by the California Department of Education. 
• Model Continuation School: Valley High School was recognized historically as a Model Continuation High School by the CDE. 

Programs that Prepare Students for What’s Next

We educate the whole student with robust academics, arts, athletics, and career pathways:

• Early College & Dual Enrollment: Through partnerships with Bakersfield College and Cerro Coso, students can earn 12–60 college units, some completing certificates or associate degrees by graduation.
• Career Technical Education (CTE): High‑quality programs connect students to industry‑recognized credentials and career pathways across multiple sectors. 
• Visual & Performing Arts: District ensembles and programs earn consistent superior ratings and, in 2026, Delano High received the California Exemplary Arts Education Award. 
• Athletics: Students compete at the highest levels in CIF Central Section, recently earning a State Championship by RFKHS Football and Valley Championships in multiple sports in 2025-2026. 

Our Governance & Community

DJUHSD benefits from an engaged Governing Board of Trustees and a deeply invested parent and community base. Our Board provides strategic leadership and resources aligned to district goals and initiatives. 

Our Commitment

We are unwavering in our commitment to provide:

• Safe, nurturing learning environments
• Outstanding instruction and high academic expectations
• Access to the latest technology and college/career opportunities
• Clear pathways to success beyond high school with 21st‑century skills

Together—with our students, families, staff, and community—we continue to be one of California’s highest‑achieving districts and a model of character, loyalty, commitment, leadership, and excellence.