2024 Best Schools in National City

• San Diego, CA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.43 out of 5  92 reviews

Works Here: I have never worked in a place that so clearly lives its mission. Francis Parker School invests in students at every level, from the amazing faculty who challenge students in the classroom, to the support staff who come alongside students as they grow and develop as people, to the dining staff who makes the unbelievable lunches each day - Parker really does care for the whole student. And as staff, we feel it too. This is a great place to work, and a great place to send your student!... Read 92 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,312

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• La Jolla, CA•

• Public School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.16 out of 5  309 reviews

Sophomore: This is a really great school! I am currently a sophomore and have had many great experiences. Although we aren’t widely known for our sports, we do offer a variety such as soccer, basketball, golf, etc. Preuss does provide more academically; they provide more advanced classes and prepare students for college. Since Preuss has a smaller population of students, it allows teachers to focus and actually help out students. All teachers are more than willing to help if needed. Also, the Preuss community is very open and active. There are a variety of clubs which put on multiple events for the school. If you are looking for an academically friendly school with a friendly community, the Preuss School UCSD is the school for you!... Read 309 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 853

• Student-teacher ratio 20:1

• San Diego, CA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.35 out of 5  23 reviews

Parent: Our family discovered Waldorf when our daughter was in High School - but I wish my kids had the opportunity to start when they were little! It’s not just a school for us but a thriving, inclusive community. We've had an outstanding experience with my high school student- who started high school after attending public schools from Kinder. She’s now getting ready for college and has done very well on the SAT and feels prepared. The teachers are truly invested in developing lifelong learners and give every student personal attention. The students themselves are incredibly confident and inquisitive and very accepting of new students. My child has blossomed under the care of Waldorf. She thought she wasn’t a “math student” but is now loving calculus! Can’t say enough good things!... Read 23 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 273

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• San Diego, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.21 out of 5  280 reviews

Alum: They provide a great education. I enjoyed the all-girls aspect because it really helped me build my confidence + self-esteem as a woman and gave me the necessary tools I need to succeed in college and beyond. I really grew as a person during my time at OLP and developed many lifelong friendships. I am happy that I took advantage of the many opportunities this school provided me, like leadership positions and volunteer opportunities, as it helped me when I applied for college. Something I'd like to see improved on is student-to-administration communication and transparency when it comes to issues that impact/involve students.... Read 280 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 750

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• 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 43

• Student-teacher ratio 3:1

• San Diego, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.3 out of 5  176 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 176 reviews

• grade A

• Students 726

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• El Cajon, CA•

• Public School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.38 out of 5  29 reviews

Parent: We've been a part of LFCS for 11 years. Now all 4 of my kids are in school there and we are so thankful for a safe, consistent learning environment for them. I so appreciate that the school takes a neutral position on any and all political or controversial issues, and instead encourages kids to ask their parents what their family values are. Also, there are regular meetings where parents are encouraged to attend and learn more about the inner workings of the school. And I'm always impressed with the school's financial transparency and fiscal responsibility. They operate within the budget and welcome questions from parents regarding spending. If you're unsure about whether this is the school for you, attend a tour and get informed. They are happy to answer any questions you have!... Read 29 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,945

• Student-teacher ratio 22:1

• Chula Vista, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.55 out of 5  11 reviews

Parent: A Chula Vista Gem! Rigorous academics and strong in STEM subjects. Servitech program is a student led and run real life IT Services Company. Looks great on college applications as it gives them work experience as a CEO, CFO, CTO, COO etc... Small family environment and Christ centered. Many extracurriculars to choose from and athletics program is top-notch. High graduation and college acceptance rates. Wouldn't have my kids anywhere else!... Read 11 reviews

• grade A

• Students 80

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• Chula Vista, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.31 out of 5  178 reviews

Senior: Mater Dei is a well-respected and well-established high school that has been serving the community for many years. It has a diverse student body and a dedicated faculty and staff who work hard to provide a high-quality education to all students. The school offers a wide range of academic programs, extracurricular activities, and support services, making it an excellent choice for students from all backgrounds. The school has a strong commitment to academic excellence and prepares students for success in following education and beyond. Overall, Mater Dei is a great choice for anyone looking for a supportive and challenging high school experience.... Read 178 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,130

• Student-teacher ratio 19:1

• San Diego, CA•

• Public School•

• K-8

• grade A

• Students 258

• Student-teacher ratio 29:1

• San Diego, CA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  64 reviews

Parent: We are floored by our experience at The Rock Academy. We moved from a highly rated public school district in our community and had no idea what we were missing. The staff works as a team and the administration truly pours love and appreciation into its teachers. The hands on learning and appropriate screen use was important to us. There are special classes during school (performing arts, co-lab (STEAM), chapel, physical education) that have designated teachers that are incredible at what they do! The school is Christ centered in everything they do from discipline to subject learning God is a big focus. It’s been a blessing for us to watch our kids grow spiritually and learn how powerful prayer can be in their everyday life. This school practices what they preach. I’ve volunteered consistently which has allowed me to see lots behind the scenes and I leave everyday so happy to know my kids are safe, loved and supported when I can’t be there.... Read 64 reviews

• grade A

• Students 582

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1

• San Diego, CA•

• Public School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.5 out of 5  38 reviews

Junior: The Learning Choice Academy is a charter school which offers K-12 education. I'm currently a junior in high school, and I've been with the school since the second semester of kindergarten. The small class sizes offer a very tight-knit, personal community of students, and many of my friends have been in my grade since middle or even elementary school, although new students are usually able to integrate quite well. As for the educational prospects, the school offers a reasonably good curriculum for elementary and middle schoolers, but the lack of elective classes and clubs in high school is somewhat of a detriment. Aside from that, however, the Learning Choice Academy is a very solid school.... Read 38 reviews

• grade A

• Students 172

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• San Diego, CA•

• Public School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.22 out of 5  114 reviews

Senior: I have attended a total of four school years here at O'Farrell, and as I type this in the summer before my senior year, I can confidently say that even if given a redo chance, I would not have had my high school experience anywhere else. One of the best parts about it is its smallness. Other high schools out there are noticeably larger than O'Farrell, both in size and student body, but our rather little school gives us a heightened sense of a close-knit community. I've surely had my fair share of academic struggles throughout it, but that's practically inevitable at any high school for the average student. It can be a bit pressuring, as this school holds its students to high standards and aims to see them enrolled in a college by the end of their time here (preferably a 4-year university). While it can be hard, it's also hard to miss the fact that there are wonderful teachers and counselors who, speaking from firsthand experience, students adore and have grown nice relationships with.... Read 114 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,789

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• San Diego Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.51 out of 5  41 reviews

Senior: I have attended EVMCHS for all of my high school years and it’s been great. One of my favorite things about this school is that they allow you to take college classes since freshman year. Taking college classes makes students stand out on college applications and prepares students to attend a college full time. There has even been a student that has graduated with three associates degrees! Another thing I love about this school is how caring the teachers are. Almost all of the teacher show a genuine interest in the students and what’s going on in their life. Since it’s such a small school , the teachers are able to give students the attention they need. One of the downside is the schools safety. Since the school is located on the city college campus, the school has an open campus. This means that there is no gates around the school separating the college from the high school. However, there almost always a police car stationed in front of the school.... Read 41 reviews

• grade A

• Students 99

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• San Diego, CA•

• Public School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  156 reviews

Senior: High Tech High Media Arts is unique in its ability to teach its students in a project-based, community-oriented way, and prepare students for real life outside of the education system. Through hands-on projects it has taught me about diversity, compassion, learning from failure, and collaboration. The school values respect between both students and teachers, and fosters a community where people across the spectrum of diversity can come together and find similarities while also celebrating differences. It is apparent that every teacher genuinely cares about each student, and prioritizes their overall growth and learning instead of simple statistics. I am thankful that I have been fortunate enough to attend High Tech High Media Arts for the past four years because it has made me a better student and a better person.... Read 156 reviews

• grade A

• Students 394

• Student-teacher ratio 20:1

• San Diego, CA•

• Public School•

• K-7

• •
  Rating 5 out of 5  1 review

Parent: This is an amazing school both of my children have flourished here...it’s one of the best schools in San Diego.... Read 1 review

• grade A

• Students 416

• Student-teacher ratio 21:1

• Chula Vista, CA•

• Public School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.99 out of 5  268 reviews

Junior: Great learning environment! This school is filled with amazing opportunities and college and career readiness help. My teachers have been very helpful regarding my internship, and other plans for the future. I have peers who care about me as well as my teachers do. Something I love that we have at High Tech High Chula Vista is the fact that we are required to go on an internship before graduating. I also love that we have advisory. Advisory is a time that we have to check in with our teacher advisors. It can be a time to check in about anything. It could be advise for college, the future, and anything in general. You also get to have the same people in that class during all four years of high school. All in all, High Tech High Chula Vista has a great learning environment and great help and opportunities for the future.... Read 268 reviews

• grade A

• Students 624

• Student-teacher ratio 20:1

• San Diego, CA•

• Public School•

• K-8

• •
  Rating 4.33 out of 5  6 reviews

Parent: The BEST OF THE BEST educational enrichment program in San Diego! For three years, Kavod has been a second family to our son. With their hands on approach, the seasoned administration and staff have armored our son with knowledge, character, social skills, and self-esteem that has spring boarded him towards his current and future success.... Read 6 reviews

• grade A

• Students 403

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• San Diego Unified School District, CA•

• K-6

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  1 review

Parent: This is our first year at Barnard and it's been great! Imagine, Mandarin language immersion at a public school! The stuff I don't love (large class size, homework in kindergarten, no parking for a magnet school) are really district problems and not specific to Barnard Elementary. The staff are very energetic and involved. Love our school!... Read 1 review

• grade A

• Students 473

• Student-teacher ratio 21:1

• San Diego, CA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  23 reviews

Parent: a notable school for pursuing art by creating connections worldwide between students and significant artists. This school not only allows the students to freely demonstrate their artistic talents but also emphasizes the importance of balancing education with the arts. The diversity of SDSCPA embraces students' differences with an open environment for all. This school has much diversity and opportunities for the arts, however the resources for students to reach counselors can be improved; counselors can not be found in their office during suitable times for students which isn't essential for the students. Furthermore, the balance between education and the arts is shown to be important yet, the balance between the two is not always shown. Many students have to choose which their attention should focus on which to consequences. To conclude, the School of Creative and Performing Arts is recommended for future artists to pursue their dreams.... Read 23 reviews

• grade A

• Students 103

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• San Diego, CA•

• Public School•

• 6-8

• •
  Rating 5 out of 5  1 review

Parent: My son wakes up early everyday and excited to go to Magnolia. He is in robotics and archery teams and loves them. School offers free tutoring and clubs after school. They also have a onsite library available for students after school. The teachers at Magnolia are very supportive and caring. I am glad we enrolled our son to Magnolia. We love Magnolia.... Read 1 review

• grade A

• Students 421

• Student-teacher ratio 23:1

• San Diego, CA•

• Public School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  183 reviews

Senior: High Tech High International is a project based school, and this makes for a very unique high school experience. Instead of learning from text books and being tested weekly, we participate in hands on projects to help us learn while gaining skills that we can use outside of school. We are taught about public speaking, applying to jobs, financial topics, and much more useful information. My experience at this school has been great. All teachers and students are very accepting of everyone, and since it is a smaller school, it is very easy to make a community and friends.... Read 183 reviews

• grade A

• Students 391

• Student-teacher ratio 22:1

• Sweetwater Union High School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.62 out of 5  507 reviews

Junior: As a transfer student to the United States I was not expecting what was to come and now that I am here I really enjoy this school. Even though the school isn't the best looking they have amazing teachers who have made my learning experience one of the most amazing experiences ever. My grades are improving so much and the school is very good about talking about college experience and ways to make your high school you be the best ever. The only reason it is a 4 stars out of 5 stars is because the lunch and campus could be improved a little more. But other than that i feel like Bonita Vista High School is a wonderful and amazing school to go to for your child's success!... Read 507 reviews

• grade A

• Students 2,235

• Student-teacher ratio 24:1

• San Diego, CA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 3.94 out of 5  63 reviews

Parent: A friend of ours referred us to this wonderful school as we were struggling with the learn-from-home (aka staring at a screen all day) model given by our public charter school. OVCA has been open since August with no outbreaks (a few cases from parents of students in different grades but no inter-transmission of COVID while in school, as far as I know). My friend had been sending her kids to this school for many years and said it was the best parenting choice she had made, and I can't help but agree with her. My child is happy and thriving in a supportive environment, with appropriate learning goals and surrounded by friends who share the values of kindness, respect, and diligence. It's a sacrifice/priority financially but well worth the value and a bargain compared to the cost of other private schools in the San Diego area. I can't recommend this school highly enough!... Read 63 reviews

• grade A

• Students 540

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• San Diego, CA•

• Public School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.04 out of 5  180 reviews

Senior: I personally am someone who works really well with the learning style at High Tech. Keep in mind that a lot of project work, especially in the lower grades, is very tacked on to the curriculum. So I wouldn't get too hyped about the project based learning part of classes. Keep in mind that because of the differing backgrounds of students. Math education especially winds up leaning towards lowest common denominator. You probably will feel like you aren't learning enough at some point, and you'll have to either take college classes or otherwise learn the missing material yourself. A major point that very few people bring up is this, the college counselor is top notch. It's not something you'll notice unless you talk to people who go to other schools, but Nichole Wyatt is very hands on with students, very good at what she does, and has a near open door policy with how easy it is to get into her office hours.... Read 180 reviews

• grade A

• Students 501

• Student-teacher ratio 25:1