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2022 Best Public High Schools for STEM in California

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Best for STEM
757 results

  1. Lynbrook High School

    • Fremont Union High School District, CA
    • 9-12
    • 469 reviews
    #8 Best High Schools for STEM in California

    Sophomore: Most of the teachers are friendly and are willing to help you outside of class time! They are also very understanding of other classes students take! The teachers are also very knowledgeable in their subjects as many have been teaching for many years. To add on, there are a variety of different electives students can take, and the teacher helps everyone prepare very well! There are also about a hundred clubs on camous which can help anyone with a diverse interest during both lunch and brunch! Overall a really large, friendly, and engaging school environment! Would recommend!
    Read 469 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,944 Students
    • 23:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  2. Saratoga High School

    • Los Gatos-Saratoga Joint Union High School District, CA
    • 9-12
    • 204 reviews
    #11 Best High Schools for STEM in California

    Sophomore: This school’s actually amazing academically, but when you take a look at the school beyond that, it’s a terrible environment. It’s no single individual’s fault- not the administration or the students. But the pressure put on an individual when they attend this school, it’s crippling. Every student wants to attend the best college it seems like, its highly competitive but also so stressful. It makes everyone feel like they aren’t good enough. Not to mention the diversity issues- there’s terrible diversity which creates a racial divide- I personally felt often uncomfortable. Many students use race as a factor to judge others, because stereotyping is such a real thing at Saratoga High. Maybe because of the small campus, or the pressure academically, or the diversity, it is unknown. Also: the teachers are terribly inconsistent. I have some terrible teachers who make me want them fired over anything in the world and also hate the courses, but then some wonderful teachers.
    Read 204 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,368 Students
    • 20:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  3. Mission San Jose High School

    • Fremont Unified School District, CA
    • 9-12
    • 390 reviews
    #14 Best High Schools for STEM in California

    Freshman: Ever since covid has started, perhaps, the first thing on my mind was starting high school. And, now that I am in high school, I do have to mention that it is quite weird without being there in person, or having people around you while you dash to your lockers in between periods. However, covid has definitely eased my way into 9th grade, with the teachers being so supportive and hard-working. If you are a student, you probably have either felt really bad and guilty as the teacher pleads (for the 100th time) to unmute and speak up or when breakouts are so awkward and can really relate to the uneasiness in the beginning of the school year. But, hats off to the teachers! They are so dedicated and helpful. School during covid is definitely not easy, but my respect has grown remarkably for the teachers who make it happen every day!
    Also, shoutout to all the leadership students, who keep us entertained and energetic throughout the day with fun concepts, events, and fundraisers!
    Read 390 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,048 Students
    • 24:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  4. Henry M. Gunn High School

    • Palo Alto Unified School District, CA
    • 9-12
    • 308 reviews
    #15 Best High Schools for STEM in California

    Senior: Gunn has been a great place to be for high school, although the culture surrounding the school isn't. With most of the parent population being made up of those in the tech industry, the expectations for students are very high which isn't great for students' mental health. The school administrators implement systems to help though those often go to no avail. There really isn't anything the school can do to change the hustle culture here but there are many resources available and my experience there has been pleasant overall.
    Read 308 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,996 Students
    • 19:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  5. Monta Vista High School

    • Fremont Union High School District, CA
    • 9-12
    • 390 reviews
    #18 Best High Schools for STEM in California

    Senior: MVHS no doubt prepares you for your college academics and has an incredibly strong STEM-focused program. Alumni have said AP/honors-level courses at MVHS is at the intro level courses of top schools (HYPSM). With the immense work-load students are trained to manage their time properly and will be ready for college. However, the student body lacks diversity (90% of students are Asians at this public school( and so does the pursuit of diverse interests, particularly in the arts and humanities. Most teachers are eager to teach (cannot say for all though) but are definitely harsh graders. Students are extremely competitive (even school spirit is revolved around competition) and guaranteed most feel imposter syndrome and a ton of academic stress. Overall, I gave a good review because in terms of academic preparation, for a STEM kid like myself, MVHS definitely helped me on the path to my future goals.
    Read 390 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,193 Students
    • 25:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  6. California Academy of Mathematics & Science

    • Long Beach Unified School District, CA
    • 9-12
    • 457 reviews
    #24 Best High Schools for STEM in California

    Senior: I think CAMS provides a lot of opportunities for their students to grow in both academics and team-work skills. Be prepared to be really busy while going to this school, and if you're not, you're doing something wrong! It's essential to be involved in something here, whether it be in our robotics teams or other science programs. CAMS is also very specialized! Expect to take a lot of extra math and science classes, all of which will be more advanced compared to other curriculum in the district. It is also very important that you understand how you learn best, and you'll have to teach yourself a lot.
    Read 457 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 659 Students
    • 28:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  9. Palo Alto High School

    • Palo Alto Unified School District, CA
    • 9-12
    • 328 reviews
    #28 Best High Schools for STEM in California

    Junior: Paly High is one of the most unique high schools in the nation. It is very academically focused, and pushes students to the next level. It opens doors for collegiate and career opportunities, and adequately prepares students for college. Although it is a great school, there is a toxic environment ever present on campus between students, as there are times when students view each other as competition and not classmates or friends. I personally enjoy sports over academics, so this school has been a unique experience, as I was new to the school my junior year. However notwithstanding, Paly High is a great school and I am proud to call myself a Viking. SKO VIKES!
    Read 328 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,177 Students
    • 18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  10. Whitney High School

    • ABC Unified School District, CA
    • 7-12
    • 374 reviews
    #29 Best High Schools for STEM in California

    Senior: Whitney is an experience. With the constant academic pressure to succeed and almost toxic competitive nature of the students, it's both easy and hard to form long-lasting bonds with peers. Admin tends to turn a blind eye, choosing to focus on the school's reputation rather than address any social issues (as caused by the lack of diversity within a model-minority/predominantly-Asian school), but that's okay. Sports and school spirit tends to be weak as students are focused on academics, and different teachers have their own eccentricities to deal with. Overall an okay school if you can keep up with the stress, but burning out is easy.
    Read 374 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,015 Students
    • 26:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  11. Cupertino High School

    • Fremont Union High School District, CA
    • 9-12
    • 471 reviews
    #30 Best High Schools for STEM in California

    Sophomore: I really like the diversity and welcoming spirit of Tino. Tino’s courses are definitely challenging and will prepare you for College. At times, it can be overwhelming but the teachers make it a habit to make class engaging and interactive. I also appreciate the support I have received from the teachers in the past years and I don’t think I could have hoped to have gone to a better school than Tino! Go Pioneers!
    Read 471 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,278 Students
    • 24:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  12. University High School

    • Irvine Unified School District, CA
    • 9-12
    • 493 reviews
    #32 Best High Schools for STEM in California

    Sophomore: I've had a pretty amazing experience at University High School in Irvine, California. They have provided me with so many opportunities for rigorous learning and opportunities to be involved in so many unique clubs, activities, and classes. Students at University High are really passionate and love to collaborate with each other. Teachers also really care about their students and I've had so many meaningful interactions in their classes. Classes are interesting and engaging and we often have interesting discussions. Also, no matter what question I have or if I want to learn more about something, there is always someone willing to help me -- teachers, counselors, students, anyone! I've had a chance to really foster my love for learning by taking honors classes. The only downside I would reflect on is how competitive the environment can be, which makes you feel a bit pressured at times to be high achieving. But competitiveness has also encouraged me as well!
    Read 493 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,211 Students
    • 26:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  13. Dougherty Valley High School

    • San Ramon Valley Unified School District, CA
    • 9-12
    • 691 reviews
    #33 Best High Schools for STEM in California

    Senior: Dougherty Valley High School offers a great education to its students, as well as many opportunities. DVHS has a variety of clubs and sports programs, it is very easy to find your niche and whatever suits your interests. I had a very memorable experience at Dougherty Valley and enjoyed my time as a student there. There are good amenities and resources that can help you be successful and the classrooms are well equipped. There are also many on-campus events, from college fairs to dance shows, and sometimes they even bring shelter dogs to aid with student stress during finals week!
    Read 691 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 3,378 Students
    • 25:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  14. Troy High School

    • Fullerton Joint Union High School District, CA
    • 9-12
    • 921 reviews
    #37 Best High Schools for STEM in California

    Senior: I am currently a Senior at Troy High School and have overall really enjoyed my experience here. I have nothing but great things to say about the Teachers, each teacher I have had has done an amazing job at preparing their students for the next level. Most teachers here truly show how much they care about their students and never fail to make us feel recognized and appreciated. Although Troy does lack some school spirit, and our admin sometimes shuts down a lot of student requests, I appreciate how they make Troy a safe place for its students. During my four years, I have been involved in many clubs as well as the cheer squad. If you're considering sending your child to Troy, make sure they are keeping a balance! A lot of students come here and are pushed too far by their parents causing them to crack under pressure. When coming to such an academically focused school, you must do what's best for you and not forget to indulge in the parts of high school that make it so unforgettable.
    Read 921 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,602 Students
    • 25:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  15. Canyon Crest Academy

    • San Dieguito Union High School District, CA
    • 9-12
    • 588 reviews
    #38 Best High Schools for STEM in California

    Senior: Canyon Crest Academy is honestly the best school I could’ve chosen to attend. Despite the culture that is curated and the stigma there is around failing, CCA provides amazing opportunities to its students. This includes programs like Quest, etc. The 4x4 schedule is also so beneficial since it allows students to take so many classes and even finish their language by sophomore year!
    Read 588 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,533 Students
    • 28:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  16. San Marino High School

    • San Marino Unified School District, CA
    • 9-12
    • 268 reviews
    #40 Best High Schools for STEM in California

    Senior: San Marino High School is a very diverse school, both academic and athletics are very outstanding. Our school offers a lot of courses, including pre-college courses and many electives, this makes our weekdays very rich and never boring and exhausted. In addition to academics, the school sports and clubs are also very attractive. I have participated in several clubs, such as Math Team, Girls Who Code and some volunteer organizations. These clubs can not only greatly help my college application, but also make me able to develop my extracurricular interests. For sports, we have football, rugby, water polo, basketball, tennis, swimming, track, and golf, etc. They are all fantanstic!
    Our campus life is very dynamic and full of enthusiasm. I hope that our school can continue to flourish forever. The only expectation is that teachers in the same subject can try to unify the standards and processes as much as possible, thus avoiding the students' grades greatly depend on different teachers.
    Read 268 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,038 Students
    • 20:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  17. Lowell High School

    • San Francisco Unified School District, CA
    • 9-12
    • 1,029 reviews
    #43 Best High Schools for STEM in California

    Junior: Although my time at Lowell high school has not been long, it has been satisfactory. The people here are all great but that may be due to the fact that most of the student’s academic levels are similar. There is a bit of a competition when it comes to studies because this school is known for it’s “smarts”. The amount of assignments I’ve received has not been overloading because my I had all the right teachers. As long as you know how to balance yourself, you’ll do fine here.
    There are many unique clubs to join and sports you can try out for! All Lowellites are welcoming to new members! There’s volunteering clubs such as Red Cross, or cultural clubs like Phil-Am and many more! We also have multiple sports such as football, soccer, volleyball, lacrosse, badminton, basketball, etc! Being a part of a club or team is what’ll make your time worthwhile in my opinion.
    Overall Lowell is a great school to attend! You’ll meet all the right people and gain a meaningful experience.
    Read 1,029 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,871 Students
    • 25:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  18. Homestead High School

    • Fremont Union High School District, CA
    • 9-12
    • 458 reviews
    #44 Best High Schools for STEM in California

    Parent: Homestead High School is excellent in terms of academics and extracurricular activities. Students fair well in all the fields and stand first when it comes to a dedication in general. Staff efforts are much appreciated in general and children excel well and in general, it is an excellent school and facilities provided are extraordinary. Homestead is a school that always follows unity in diversity and children study from all walks of life. Clubs and other activities conducted at school premises and also sports play an important role at school and lots of competitions are conducted and students are benefitted through this type of friendly competition. Students here get into prestigious universities and are placed in a recognized company and get a good carrier opportunity throughout the US and other countries. Our kid had a good experience and is a happy Graduate, Graduating from HOMESTEAD soon. Thank You!
    Read 458 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,430 Students
    • 24:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  19. Los Altos High School

    • Mountain View-Los Altos Union High School District, CA
    • 9-12
    • 315 reviews
    #45 Best High Schools for STEM in California

    Sophomore: I've moved to this school very recently, I used to attend Great Oak High school and moved recently. This school by far has been amazing. Everything from the Teachers to the schools facility are great. All of my teachers are amazing and very helpful and very engaged with their students. The students at this school are very kind and were willing to go out of way to help me around and even give me a tour of the school. The school also offers programs like counseling, collage help and free tutoring too. As far as academics and sports the school is very competitive. Facilities here are very well maintained and kept in excellent condition. The student body is also very diverse. Overall I really like my school and I know for a fact that anyone else that might transfer here would too. GO LAHS!
    Read 315 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,253 Students
    • 20:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  22. Northwood High School

    • Irvine Unified School District, CA
    • 9-12
    • 531 reviews
    #48 Best High Schools for STEM in California

    Senior: I transferred to Northwood Highschool from another school in California. When I was a new student, I was embraced by staff such as my councilor in a way that made me feel safe. They helped me get sorted into the new school, giving me all the information I needed for a easy transition to happen. And it was! The staff deeply care about the students health and wellbeing, while still ensuring that we get a proper education. All the teachers that I've had, have been amazing in their fields, helping me become the best at the certain subject. The schools atmosphere is amazing as well. The open space, with nature filled radiance touches the school. I absolutely adore how there is open space at in the school's field's rather than it being filled with a cement stadium like other schools. It gives a relaxing vibe to the school and the athletics department as well.
    Read 531 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,151 Students
    • 27:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  23. Irvington High School

    • Fremont Unified School District, CA
    • 9-12
    • 700 reviews
    #51 Best High Schools for STEM in California

    Senior: Irvington is a great school that will set you up for success. It has wonderful academics, dedicated teachers, and peers that will consistently motivate you to do better. The clubs are a great example of that. Irvington has many academic and performing arts clubs that reflect the willingness and drive of the student body. Clubs like debate, DECA, FBLA, science bowl, and many more are extremely compititively successful. However, the district is vastly underfunded and cannot afford to provide facilities for sports and clubs. Irvington makes the best of this situation and always strives to provide better for its students. Being in Fremont, it is very very competitive. Not to the extent of other Fremont schools, but you definitely have some toxic people that will want to bring you down. Overall, Irvington prepares you very well for college and life beyong high school.
    Read 700 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,367 Students
    • 22:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  24. Miramonte High School

    • Acalanes Union High School District, CA
    • 9-12
    • 214 reviews
    #52 Best High Schools for STEM in California

    Alum: As an alumni, I had the best memories here. The resources for student's academical studies success are excellent! Staff members are all super friendly and helpful. Teachers back when I was studying here, were all willing to help students succeed in their classes. Super inclusive clubs that allows students to try new things!
    Read 214 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,236 Students
    • 21:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  25. La Canada High School

    • La Canada Unified School District, CA
    • 7-12
    • 342 reviews
    #53 Best High Schools for STEM in California

    Junior: I'll start off with the bullying: There is none. Everyone is nice and helpful to each other. The homework is a bit much but with some encouragement from parents, it's not all that bad. The teachers are extraordinary at explaining the class material and subjects and are always willing to help a student in need. But the school is not all work. La Canada High School also offers a plethora of sports teams and clubs, most of which are run by the community or students. As a student with ADD (ADHD Innatentive), staying focused has been a bit difficult. Luckily, the teachers are nice and give me extra time to complete assignments or tests. Now onto the food! The cafeteria offers a variety of food, usually with different menus each day. There's also a wide variety of drinks and snacks in the Cafe.
    Read 342 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,069 Students
    • 25:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  26. Riverside STEM Academy

    • Riverside Unified School District, CA
    • 5-12
    • 47 reviews
    #55 Best High Schools for STEM in California

    Sophomore: Riverside STEM Academy is a good school for dedicated individuals, those motivated to get good grades without their parents pushing them. If you are not motivated to get good grades, then I would not recommend this school for you. STEM High provides one, rigorous, path that can be hard without the right motivation causing your GPA to sink. The workload can be extensive, but the social life at STEM makes up for it. The entire campus is like a huge family where everyone knows each other. You can expect your peers and teachers to help you. Although there are not many teachers on the campus, they are sweet and are willing to go slower for each student to understand the material. Because there are very few teachers, STEM does not offer as many options or choices in the courses you take. If you want to take something STEM does not offer, you would have to go off campus to another high school.
    Read 47 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 656 Students
    • 27:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  27. Arcadia High School

    • Arcadia Unified School District, CA
    • 9-12
    • 1,077 reviews
    #56 Best High Schools for STEM in California

    Senior: During my four years at Arcadia High School, I was challenged very academically. The students here take their education very seriously because they heavily emphasize the importance of getting into a good college. My favorite part of the school is that it has so many amazing opportunities and programs for students to join and really find themselves. I joined their Marching Band for four years and during those times, I was given exciting opportunities to perform in places I would never have dreamed of. Just this year our band flew to Florida to perform in the Outback Bowl halftime show! Their programs are very well funded. Students will have a chance to learn the true meaning of teamwork and consistency. Whether you join the theater department or a sport, you will have fun. Overall something to improve on or change is the attention of the student's well-being. Quite often, the students get so caught up in studying they become stress and forget to take care of themselves,
    Read 1,077 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 3,087 Students
    • 24:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  28. Palos Verdes Peninsula High School

    • Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District, CA
    • 9-12
    • 639 reviews
    #57 Best High Schools for STEM in California

    Senior: Highly competitive academic school! The teachers are all around solid and extremely qualified. Everyone encourages and supports one another in their trip through high school. This support has been great for many students like myself going through high school. Many programs and clubs to be a part of, no one is left behind. I have learned a lot about myself from my experiences here and have grown to be a better person because of them, such as seeing myself put in various leadership roles.
    Read 639 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,304 Students
    • 24:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  29. Mountain View High School

    • Mountain View-Los Altos Union High School District, CA
    • 9-12
    • 278 reviews
    #59 Best High Schools for STEM in California

    Senior: At MVHS, I have been an active member of multiple clubs, sports, and a wide range of classes. I have had my ups and downs in experiences with a few teachers and students but with the support from other faculty and my parents, I have had a great experience! MVHS is a fantastic school and I am proud to be a Spartant!
    Read 278 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,183 Students
    • 19:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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    Bishop McNamara High School

    • Private School
    • FORESTVILLE, MD
    • 9-12
    • 334 reviews

    Senior: My high school experience at Bishop Mcnamara, I see as a privledge . Being able to come up with the finances and tools to experience a private school education is one I see now as a great investment and amazing oppurtunity. Each day when I walk into Bishop Mcnamara I am greeted with a smile, a how are you doing or a pat on the back from my administration or a staff member. I am constantly challenged to think and push myself through my variety of AP, college prep and honors courses. The challenge and love doesn't stop in the classroom. Involved in every single dance art possible, my plate is definitely a full one. But I see that my school sees art as an importance to me, so they make it a priority to be of importance to them. I am thankful for Bishop Mcnamara and how it has shaped me as a individual, performer of the arts and as a student. I strongly believe the tools I have gained have prepared me for school after I leave this institution and then some!
    Read 334 Reviews

    • A minus
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 841 Students
    • 8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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    Futures Academy - Walnut Creek

    • Private School
    • WALNUT CREEK, CA
    • 6-12
    • 28 Students
    • 1:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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    Dunn School

    • Private School
    • LOS OLIVOS, CA
    • 6-12
    • 66 reviews

    Parent: Both of my kids are thriving at this amazing school. Dunn has managed to achieve a nearly perfect balance between nurturing the whole student, providing them with opportunities to take risks/try new things, keeping them physically active, and maintaining high academic standards. Combined with a gorgeous campus, opportunities to interact with animals, and a healthy meal program that utilizes local farm fresh, local ingredients, and you have all the elements of a superior education. I am so happy that my kids have the opportunity to attend this wonderful school and receive an education far superior to the one I received.
    Read 66 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 220 Students
    • 5:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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