2022 Best Schools in Carmel Valley

• San Diego, CA•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.55 out of 5  83 reviews

Senior: I loved my experience at Bishop’s. In terms of academics, I know that I was challenged every single day and taught to think critically. I feel more than prepared for my new college work. Additionally, the Bishops community ad a whole is incredibly kind and welcoming. There are only a couple things you should know before enrolling here. 1) Because the academics are very challenging, there is more grade deflation compared to other high schools. It is really hard to stand out academically. 2) If you are looking for a traditional high school experience, we lack in spirit and sports. Overall, the people, academics, college prep/counseling, and small classes make Bishop’s a school that I would highly recommend.... Read 83 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 800

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• La Jolla, CA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.27 out of 5  150 reviews

Parent: LJCDS is an amazing school! I highly recommend it for any families who are looking for a wonderful community, nurturing environment for your child, and top notch faculty and staff. My daughter loves her days at school thanks to her caring teachers providing stimulating and creative lessons to help her grow. During COVID, LJCDS handled the pandemic with such care- leading with science- and doing the best they could to provide safe in person learning for all students. I feel grateful to have found a school community rooted in building life long friendships and connections; not only for my children, but also for our whole family.... Read 150 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,125

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• San Diego, CA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.41 out of 5  88 reviews

Works Here: As someone who has taught in different and good school environments in the past (public and charter), I can genuinely say that Parker is the best school that I have worked at. The community is inviting, friendly, and strives to support to one another. This creates a really positive work environment in where some days go by really fast. The resources are excellent and the school provides opportunities for students to not only explore their interests, but to also help them prepare for college. I also appreciate that Parker has made strides to integrate diversity and inclusion within the curriculum. Most importantly, the students here are academically motivated and enjoy being in the classroom. As a teacher, this only drives you to constantly find new and creative learning methods that can be used in the classroom and meet the expectations of your students. Overall, I am really thankful to have the opportunity to continue working at Parker.... Read 88 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,185

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• San Dieguito Union High School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.28 out of 5  602 reviews

Senior: CCA has--on the whole--been a positive learning environment over the past four years. Most of my teachers have genuinely cared about my success, and despite the administration's active effort to discourage competition, the academic pressure from students encourages academic excellence. The arts programs provide an environment that treats students as young professionals. While there are typical riff-raff individuals, there is a much larger quantity of high-value friends to be made. With that said, the administration throughout the pandemic has been lackluster. In fairness, most of this falls on the bureaucracy of the district, but the constant misinformation and restrictions on students have been incredibly detrimental. Additionally, coming from a centrist, if your politics don't align with the far-left, you risk social ostracization if you speak up in class discussions. The mishandling of the pandemic has soured what was once a glowing opinion of an--admittedly still--great school.... Read 602 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,533

• Student-teacher ratio 28:1

• San Dieguito Union High School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.05 out of 5  468 reviews

Senior: Torrey Pine High School is all about participating in school spirit! Everyone gathers together at all of the games and fills the chaos section with so much energy. It is a very sports-minded school, but luckily they do offer many clubs to those who aren't sporty. The teachers are all amazing and want the best for each of their students. The campus is beautiful! Almost everyone there is college driven, and will only encourage others to want the best future for themselves.... Read 468 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 2,479

• Student-teacher ratio 26:1

• San Diego, CA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.9 out of 5  39 reviews

Junior: The Cambridge School is a great school. There are not many kids, which leads to deep relationships between teachers and students. All of the teachers are amazing and extremely knowledgeable in their respective fields. They want you to do well in their subjects, and are constantly available at lunch and after school, but whats better is they truly care about the type of people their students are becoming, which leads to an incredible community and culture. The school is looking to purchase another property, which is good because as it grows, space for classrooms becomes smaller and smaller.... Read 39 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 381

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• San Diego, CA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.34 out of 5  29 reviews

Parent: We moved here from New York about 4 years ago. My children started in the preschool of SDJA and have been there ever since! Currently, our children are in the lower school and are excelling in all areas. For example, my son and daughter are reading above grade level. The small class sizes and constant attention they receive keeps them engaged and on task. The teachers are constantly creating special experiences for the students, and therefore the lessons never get old. For example, with all the rain that San Diego received my daughter’s teacher created a multi-sensory lesson. The students were asked to create small sailboats from materials found in the classroom. The boats were then tested on the makeshift pond that was formed on the playground from all the rain. The students made predictions and took notice on what worked best and what needed to be changed for future sails!... Read 29 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 494

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• Encinitas, CA•

• Private School•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 4.8 out of 5  51 reviews

Parent: My daughter graduated from The Grauer School and my son is currently a senior. This school has been amazing, and I feel so fortunate that both have been able to attend. The small class sizes help shy children feel more comfortable participating and they allow the inquisitive child to ask questions and explore creativity and out of the box thinking. The relationships students have with their teachers is unlike anything I've ever seen. Students feel valued and appreciated, yet they are also held to a high standard. Students feel they have a voice in their education and can participate in any sport or activity. Although there is a cost to attend, the school is willing to work with families and provide financial aid, when needed. I couldn't have asked for a better middle school and high school experience for my kids. They have grown into kind, confident, capable, and intellectually curious young adults. This is the BEST school!... Read 51 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 160

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• San Diego, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.23 out of 5  256 reviews

Senior: I owe so much to this school, especially now with their efforts to give all the students the resources to continue school safely, while still keeping our mental and physical health as top priority. It’s insane how many gifted athletes achieve great success at this school, as well as those in the theatre program, which I believe is greatly underrated. The sense of community here is phenomenal, majority of us feeling valued and loved everyday. Perhaps what’s best is how the comfort of God and the faith is beautifully implemented in all that we do here, from morning prayers to adoration, retreats, all school Masses, etc. I cannot recommend this school enough, especially for those who want to further explore their Catholic faith. Even for those who aren’t Catholic, I can assure you that you’ll feel right at home. From a Class of 2020 senior, thank you CCHS for everything you have done for my family and I!... Read 256 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,630

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• San Diego, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.32 out of 5  173 reviews

Senior: I have been at Saint Augustine High School for 4 years. My experience at Saints has been very good. We have a lot of fun in the "pit" and I have participated in a lot of on campus events. Freshman year was a lot of fun and I had all the support that I needed to succeed. I was pared with a Senior student mentor who guided me through the halls at the school and showed me what Saints was all about. Most of my teachers are very good and care about the success of the students. Academically I was challenged and supported. I really liked having an all male environment because I could be myself and find a strong male brotherhood that I hope will last a lifetime. At Saints, you will find a well balanced school that challenges you to grow in character, faith, leadership, while preparing you to be successful in college. I have often heard from Alumni that their experience at Saints has made them strongly prepared for College. To the extent that the college work load often seemed much easier... Read 173 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 736

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• San Dieguito Union High School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.3 out of 5  478 reviews

Senior: I really appreciate the accepting community that allowed me to become comfortable with the person I am. I also was able to develop a creative side through fashion, art and music which SDA promotes very seriously. I found that the teachers were all very kind and genuinely wanted their students to succeed. However, I believe that at SDA, the head staff jumped to conclusions in students and instead of supporting students through their difficulties, they punished them through suspension, detention and loss of privilege in order to avoid dealing with more "difficult" students. This is unfair to those who deserve a steady learning environment.... Read 478 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,959

• Student-teacher ratio 25:1

• Solana Beach, CA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.05 out of 5  83 reviews

Senior: I really like SFC. Coming from a family that puts our trust and faith in God, it is really amazing to be surrounded by Christians on campus. The people that I surround myself with are God-fearing, humble, kind, selfless people and also have the funniest and best personality! I love SFC and I wouldn't change my high school experience here for anything! SFC has prepared me for college, having personal relationships with the teachers, recognizing the importance of going into getting help, and most of all being genuine. SFC has prepared me for the future and I can't wait to excel and be the best version of me in college and in my workplace!... Read 83 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,019

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• San Diego, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.23 out of 5  258 reviews

Junior: When I got accepted into this school, my stubborn incoming freshman mind kept thinking that no one wanted friends with me. The truth was that, I was right. I did not find a friend but instead, I abruptly found out that the whole school was my friend, including the teachers! Let me explain. In my freshman orientation week, an astonishing amount of positivity was in the air when I arrived and it helped immensely as it made my transition from middle school to high school, rather enjoyable. Furthermore, the students are connected with each other through the school spirit. I always heard rumors about how spirited the school was but I never believed it, until I was the one standing on those gym bleachers screaming my heart out in our pep rallies. Now more than ever, I feel ready to apply to colleges due to immense support from my amazing counselors. I went into this school thinking I would not fit in but in the end, I am a part of this sisterhood and ready for the future!... Read 258 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 750

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• San Dieguito Union High School District, CA•

• 7-8

• grade A+

• Students 804

• Student-teacher ratio 28:1

• San Dieguito Union High School District, CA•

• 7-8

• •
  Rating 4.17 out of 5  6 reviews

Middle School Student: CVMS was such a fun experience overall. However, the school was mainly white and asian, and the science curriculum was boring. There were fights and scandals, but it was occasional. One thing I want to complain about is the food. The pizza was chalk dry and the pick up stix barely had any meat. The district has these lunch sets which contain a main food, fruit and drink. I was never full from it! I had to go and buy snacks or else I would be starving. Everything was also way overpriced. One shrimpy slice of pizza was 3.75. It doesn't look expensive but wait until you see the portion size.... Read 6 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,062

• Student-teacher ratio 27:1

• San Diego, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.67 out of 5  6 reviews

Alum: Small class size and dedicated caring teachers lead to indicate attention for every student. Excellent academics and college prep, with multiple ap courses in every subject. Students are very friendly and connected to each other.... Read 6 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 32

• Student-teacher ratio 3:1

• Solana Beach Elementary School District, CA•

• K-3

• •
  Rating 5 out of 5  1 review

Parent: Excellent teachers and the principal is caring and a wonderful example for the children. Great programs such as running club, gold medal reading, character counts and STREAM. Strong sense of community and excellent PTA.... Read 1 review

• grade A+

• Students 305

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• San Dieguito Union High School District, CA•

• 7-8

• •
  Rating 4.67 out of 5  3 reviews

Parent: Great school - EXCEPT - if your child gets Schaller as a science teacher, expect that they will learn nothing. This teacher should retire or not be working with children. Absolutely awful teacher. The one thing my child is learning from him is the fact that there are indeed horrible teachers out there working and administrators cannot do anything in regards to switching your kid to a teacher where you kid will actually learn the subject at hand.... Read 3 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 610

• Student-teacher ratio 27:1

• Solana Beach Elementary School District, CA•

• K-3

• •
  Rating 5 out of 5  1 review

Parent: Carmel Creek Elementary focuses on Kindergarten to Grade 3, with a lower than average student-to-teacher ratio compared with most other schools. They provide excellent education and extracurricular activities for the young kids. Kids are very happy in this school. The school is well connected to the community. Its campus is also an excellent place for after-class activities in the neighborhood.... Read 1 review

• grade A+

• Students 377

• Student-teacher ratio 21:1

• Encinitas, CA•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  5 reviews

Parent: Pacific Academy Encinitas is a great place for students to receive individualized instruction in a small class room setting. The smaller sizes mean students get instant access to teachers and one on one coaching if they need it. Middle and high school students are allowed flexibility in learning styles, and allowed to mature and be responsible for their own success. The school day is a little longer which means less homework overall because students are given time to get it done in class with fewer disruptions. The school ensures students are happy and ready to learn - pancake breakfasts, flexible & unique PE program, whole school enrichment days, and the ability to adjust a child's class based on their academic level, not age-grade level. There is no bullying and there are no behavior problems to deal with. Kids can concentrate on learning and being themselves which has made PAE a great fit for our family. Students do need to have their own activities and sports outside of school.... Read 5 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 116

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Del Mar Union Elementary School District, CA•

• K-6

• grade A

• Students 565

• Student-teacher ratio 24:1

• San Diego, CA•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 5 out of 5  4 reviews

Parent: Futures Academy (formerly Halstrom) has been terrific for our son. He finished 8th grade there and has started ninth grade. The one-on-one teaching is a great model and he learns well in that environment. He rarely comes home with homework, and is actually happy to go to school. The school transitioned extremely well to online learning after the pandemic. The beautiful thing about Futures is we actually stopped worrying about school or his homework. My wife and I highly recommend Futures.... Read 4 reviews

• grade A

• Students 28

• Student-teacher ratio 1:1

• Del Mar Union Elementary School District, CA•

• K-6

• •
  Rating 5 out of 5  1 review

Niche User: I am an old student from last year ocean air was a great school I loved the way the parents and teachers worked together it was amazing I really liked it... Read 1 review

• grade A

• Students 613

• Student-teacher ratio 24:1

• Solana Beach Elementary School District, CA•

• K-6

• grade A

• Students 589

• Student-teacher ratio 24:1

• San Diego, CA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  23 reviews

• grade A

• Students 241

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1