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 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.
**Christ Church Day School
Coronado, 619-435-9470
JK-Grade 8
Christ Church Day School is a small private school in Coronado, CA. Our mission is to engage students to reason, create, serve and lead in a nurturing, Episcopal learning community. We believe students should become lifelong learners and therefore encourage natural curiosity, teach basic skills, and promote an understanding of the relationship between the arts, science, and humanities to stimulate learning. We offer a robust curriculum that includes Music, Art, P.E. and Spanish. We also believe students should acquire a strong foundation of Christian ethics and therefore honor the dignity and worth of all people, encourage awareness and concern for local and global communities, and provide an environment thath teaches and models God’s love and grace.
**Kavod Charter School
Clairemont, 858-386-0887
www.kavodcharter.org
TK-Grade 8
Kavod is a tuition-free public TK-8 Seal of Biliteracy Pathway school teaching both Hebrew and Spanish. Our rigorous International Baccalaureate program offers high school credit, dynamic enrichment and prepares students to be respectful global citizens who will make a world of difference. Enrolling now!
*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.
*Urban Discovery Schools
Downtown San Diego, 619-788-4668
www.urbansd.com
UTK-Grade 12
Urban Discovery Academy is an award-winning free public school in the heart of downtown San Diego. The community is an extension of our campus and the foundation for our rigorous, creative and immersive approach to learning. In partnership with UC San Diego and Reality Changers, we empower students to explore beyond the classroom, with enrichment programming for all ages that ignites curiosity and inspires them to make a difference.
EAST COUNTY
**Liberty Charter High School
Alpine, 619-659-5175
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.
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS
*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 2025
