Where (or if) 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.
Encinitas Country Day
Encinitas, 760-942-1111
www.ecdschools.org
Preschool-Grade 8
Encinitas Country Day School applies a unique blend of Montessori, traditional, and 21st-century instructional methods to develop
well-rounded students of scholarship, integrity and service.
LePort Montessori School Del Mar, 858-207-6474www.leportschools.com/san-diego/solana-beachInfant-Grade 6Discover LePort Montessori! An authentic Montessori school where your child can flourish personally and academically in a safe and nurturing environment. Schedule a private tour to learn more.
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
At Mission Bay Montessori Academy, we pride ourselves on educating our community for over 50 years. Our Montessori philosophy and high academic standards create a positive, productive learning environment for students two years old through sixth grade. We match the individual child’s interests and abilities with our time-tested curriculum achieving emotional, social and academic success. To learn more about MBMA, please visit www.mbmacademy.com to schedule a Q&A and tour.
Urban Discovery Schools
Downtown San Diego, 619-788-4668
www.urbansd.com
TK-Grade 12
Urban Discovery Schools (UDS) is an internationally award-winning free public school serving grades TK-12 in the heart of Downtown San Diego. Our internationally recognized approach to academics, STEAM and technology is leading the way with engaging, effective learning experiences that adapt and flourish in today's rapidly changing educational climate. Reach out today to learn more about our flexible virtual learning solutions, state-of-the-art facilities and diverse community.
EAST COUNTY
JCS Manzanita Charter School SN
La Mesa, 619-303-4101
https://manzanita.jcs-inc.org/
TK-Grade 12
As part of the JCS Family, JCS Manzanita operates out of two locations in La Mesa. All of our programs are well established with credentialed teachers that have been serving students for many years. We encourage families to partner with us as students develop self-confidence and become self-directed learners.
Literacy First Charter School
El Cajon and Alpine, 619-579-7232
www.LFCSInc.org
TK-12
Literacy First Charter Schools has been serving students in K-12 since 2001 with a focus on personally knowing each student in order to develop literate, life-long learners who are responsible citizens of character. LFCS is proud to report that our students perform well above state averages and local schools.
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS
Discovery Isle
San Diego, 877-959-3741
www.discoveryisle.com
6 weeks – Pre K
Discovery Isle Preschool provides the perfect balance of learning and play. Our proprietary curriculum, Links to Learning, prepares children for kindergarten and beyond by developing important academic, social and emotional skills. Schedule a private tour to learn more.
High Tech High School
Poinnt Loma, Chula Vista, Claremont Mesa and San Marcos, 619-796-4484
www.hightechhigh.org
Grades K-12
High Tech High schools are K-12 public charter schools that focus on challenging, innovative, project-based learning and preparing our students for the rigor of the nation's most prestigious colleges and universities. High Tech High schools provide all students with rigorous and relevant academic, civic and life skills while preparing all graduates for postsecondary success and productive citizenship. HTH schools’ focus on social and emotional learning combined with project-based learning has profound academic impacts. High Tech High is guided by four connected design principles—equity, personalization, authentic work, and collaborative design—that set aspirational goals and create a foundation for understanding our approach.
Learning Choice
Updated: July 2023
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