2024 Best School Districts in Santa Cruz County

• Santa Cruz, CA•

• School District

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  Rating 3.56 out of 5  16 reviews

Senior: I started high school during COVID, but coming back from that, the community was very open and welcoming. I joined the band and made many life-long friends through it while also being able to travel and compete throughout California. I have joined a couple clubs and they have all been decent. None of our sports teams are very good, but the community it creates is still remarkable.... Read 16 reviews

• grade A

• Total schools 9

• Students 4,584

• Ben Lomond, CA•

• School District

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  Rating 4.1 out of 5  20 reviews

Alum: I did Kindergarten through 12th grade at San Lorenzo Valley USD, and I feel that I received a great education and was well-prepared for college. The teachers and faculty truly care for students and families, and the local community is accepting and empowering.... Read 20 reviews

• grade A minus

• Total schools 6

• Students 2,450

• Scotts Valley, CA•

• School District

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  Rating 4.07 out of 5  14 reviews

Senior: Scotts Valley is small so the community feels connected and close. Many parents are involved, and kids really enjoy the sports and classes. The cons are that the school pays lower than other districts so the teachers do not stay long and so often there are not enough teachers to fill all the classes. Along with this, there is a lack of funding in the sports program so the track and field is in terrible condition, with no improvements in the near future. Overall, though, the school offers a diverse set of classes that are college prep levels and there are many teachers seriously invested in the kids future.... Read 14 reviews

• grade B+

• Total schools 4

• Students 2,182

• Santa Cruz, CA•

• School District

• grade B+

• Total schools 4

• Students 937

• Watsonville, CA•

• School District

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  Rating 3.48 out of 5  42 reviews

Senior: I love that the district has many different resources for the community and those who are low-income. The schools all have counselors fit for their students and are very helpful for them and the parents. However, we as students don't see and have not been seeing any field trips for the last couple of years. Or, the number of field trips per year has been decreasing. It is crucial for schools to offer at least one field trip per year so that the students have the time to socialize outside of the school. Overall, the district is very supportive of its students and families.... Read 42 reviews

• grade B minus

• Total schools 34

• Students 18,164

• Santa Cruz, CA•

• School District

• grade B+

• Total schools 5

• Students 1,713

• Capitola, CA•

• School District

• grade B+

• Total schools 5

• Students 1,687

• Santa Cruz, CA•

• School District

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  Rating 4 out of 5  1 review

Parent: I really like how well the teachers work with each other in the best interest of the students. Everyone wants what's best for each child.... Read 1 review

• grade B

• Total schools 7

• Students 1,728