Where to send kids to school is a big decision on every parent's mind right now. Our education directory features educational options in San Diego County with a variety of learning environments—public charter schools, private and Montessori schools. Contact each school directly for detailed program information and to schedule tours. Programs with the SN symbol have staff to care for children with special needs.
NORTH COUNTY
Del Mar Hills Nursery School
Del Mar, 858-755-8338
www.delmarhillsnurseryschool.com
2.5-6 years
Our program combines the philosophies of Froebel, Orff, Montessori and Reggio Emilia in an environment tailored to each child’s interests and ideas. Each day is balanced with a developmentally appropriate curriculum and multi-age exploration in our art studio, Froebel room and outdoor classroom. Daily Orff sessions introduce music and movement to students. Offering excellent programs since 1970.
San Diego Jewish Academy SN
Carmel Valley, 858-704-3700
www.sdja.com
Preschool-Grade 12
For more than 45 years, San Diego Jewish Academy has been a leader in education – inspiring and supporting students with personalized, innovative learning guided by Jewish values. At SDJA, students are known, seen and supported by a passionate team of educators. Serving students from preschool through high school, SDJA offers diverse programs as well as a curriculum that blends academics, emotional intelligence, and co-curricular opportunities to prepare confident, compassionate changemakers.
SAN DIEGO CENTRAL
Beth Montessori
La Jolla, 858-452-3030
www.bethmontessori.com
9 months-6 years
We offer an integrated secular and Judaic curriculum based on the Montessori philosophy. Children are guided by certified professionals. Our self-directed learning fosters independence, responsibility, respect and a love of learning. Bilingual program with fluency in English and Spanish.
Mission Bay Montessori Academy
University City, 858-457-5895
www.mbmacademy.com
Age 2-Grade 6
Our 10-month school year runs from August-June and we also offer a summer program. We have been in operation since 1968. In addition to their intellectual faculties, we also help children build their powers of deliberation, initiative and independent choice. Our elementary students also experience facets of traditional education (testing, textbooks and homework), which helps facilitate the transition to the next phase of their education. The academic accomplishments of our students are held in high regard by the private and middle schools in our area. We credit this reputation to our child-centered Montessori philosophy and curriculum.
EAST COUNTY
Liberty Charter High School
Alpine, 619-579-7233
www.libertychs.org
Grades 9-12
Liberty Charter High School is dedicated to helping every student graduate as a literate citizen, self-directed learner, effective communicator, values-conscious thinker and responsible community leader. Personally invested in the success of each individual, our staff facilitates the learning of all students through a rigorous academic program, explicit character development and extracurricular activities.
The Waldorf School
City Heights/Rolando, 619-280-8016
www.waldorfsandiego.org
Pre-K-Grade 12
The Waldorf School of San Diego offers Pre-K through grade 12 Waldorf education in the heart of an innovative city and beautiful landscape. We seek to provide an alternative to typical San Diego schools. We use a proven technique based on insight into the brain and physical development, kinesthetic learning and emotional intelligence. We are a screen-free school. The teaching techniques used to respond to the inquisitive and inquiring needs of the child at each stage of development prepares children for the ever-changing world. We are a community committed to academic excellence and engaging students’ hearts and minds for life-long learning and service to the world.
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS
Dimensions Collaborative SN
Mission Valley and Escondido, 877-300-8299
www.dimensions.org
TK-Grade 12
Dimensions Collaborative School is a tuition-free charter school serving TK–12 homeschool families throughout San Diego County. It is a vibrant learning community that values curiosity, collaboration and growth, empowering students to think critically, learn creatively, and develop confidence through supportive relationships and innovative learning experiences.
The Learning Choice Academy
Chula Vista: 619-656-4220
La Mesa: 619-463-8811
Clairemont: 858-536-8388
www.learningchoice.org
TK-Grade 12
Join us at The Learning Choice Academy, where we empower TK-12 grade students to thrive, parents to actively participate and teachers to inspire. Discover a new way of learning that puts your child's needs and interests at the forefront. Explore our programs, connect with our supportive community and embrace the freedom of educational choice.
Updated: January 2026
