[6] Known for yearly participation in the National History Day competition, an annual United Service Organizations (USO) show,[7][8] and its ArtSplash festival,[9][10] RBV has programs in theatre,[11] music, and graphic design/digital arts.

Under retired drama teacher Mark Scott, who was inducted in the California Educational Theatre Hall of Fame, RBV won first or second place in at least half the shows entered in the California Educational Theatre Awards and the Spirit of the MACY awards.

[13] Rancho Buena Vista's drum line has performed in Good Morning San Diego.

[15] The athletic program at RBVHS currently offers Marching Band, Color Guard, Cheer, Dance, Ballet Folklorico, Cross Country, Field Hockey, Tennis, Volleyball, Water Polo, Golf, Basketball, Soccer, Wrestling, Softball, Baseball, Swimming, Track & Field, and Football.

[23] A former speech therapist at Rancho Buena Vista was arrested in 2019 for allegedly sending threatening messages to co-workers.