Guide to Local Schools in Laguna Beach

When it comes to finding the perfect place to live, one of the most important factors for families is the quality of the local schools. In Laguna Beach, a scenic coastal city known for its natural beauty and artistic culture, education is equally outstanding. Laguna Beach offers a variety of schools that provide top-tier education and foster a welcoming, supportive environment for students. From highly regarded public schools to private institutions with specialized programs, parents in Laguna Beach have plenty of excellent choices for their children’s education. This guide will explore the local schools in Laguna Beach, highlighting their strengths and what makes each one unique.

The Laguna Beach Unified School District is one of the main pillars of education in the community. Known for its high academic standards and commitment to student success, LBUSD consistently ranks among the top districts in California. With a focus on personalized learning, technology integration, and well-rounded development, LBUSD schools aim to prepare students for both academic achievement and personal growth.

Laguna Beach High School is the only high school within the district, serving grades nine through 12. With a long-standing reputation for academic excellence, Laguna Beach High offers a rigorous curriculum designed to challenge students and prepare them for college and beyond. The school has a variety of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, honors classes, and extracurricular activities that allow students to explore their interests and talents.

In addition to its strong academic programs, Laguna Beach High is known for its vibrant arts and athletics departments. Whether it’s visual arts, theater, or sports, students have many opportunities to express themselves and build a sense of community.

Serving students in grades six through eight, Thurston Middle School is a place where academic curiosity is nurtured and students are encouraged to explore their passions. The school offers a broad range of courses that go beyond traditional core subjects, including music, art, and STEM programs (science, technology, engineering, and math).

Thurston Middle School also places a strong emphasis on social-emotional learning, ensuring that students not only succeed academically but also grow in character and emotional resilience. The school fosters an inclusive environment where students feel supported by teachers, staff, and their peers.

Located in the hills of Laguna Beach, Top of the World Elementary School serves students in kindergarten through fifth grade. Known for its nurturing environment and dedicated staff, this school helps young learners build a strong foundation in reading, math, and critical thinking skills.

Top of the World places a special emphasis on technology, integrating digital tools into the classroom to enhance learning and prepare students for the future. Additionally, the school values community involvement and regularly hosts events that bring families together, creating a warm and connected school culture.

Situated near the beautiful coastline, El Morro Elementary School offers a unique blend of academic excellence and an appreciation for the natural world. Serving students in kindergarten through fifth grade, El Morro fosters a collaborative and student-centered approach to learning.

The school’s curriculum is designed to engage young minds, offering programs in science, art, and outdoor education. El Morro’s close proximity to the beach provides students with opportunities for outdoor learning experiences that make the most of Laguna Beach’s stunning environment.

In addition to its outstanding public schools, Laguna Beach is also home to several private schools that offer alternative educational philosophies, smaller class sizes, and specialized programs for students with unique needs or interests.

St. Catherine of Siena Parish School is a Catholic school that serves students from kindergarten through eighth grade. The school blends rigorous academics with a strong focus on character development and spiritual growth. With small class sizes and individualized attention, students receive a well-rounded education that includes core subjects, music, and physical education.

St. Catherine places a strong emphasis on community service, encouraging students to participate in outreach projects and foster a sense of social responsibility. This combination of academic rigor and values-based education makes St. Catherine an excellent option for families.

Anneliese Schools is a progressive, private school that offers a holistic approach to education for students from preschool through sixth grade. With a focus on experiential learning, creativity, and environmental stewardship, Anneliese provides a unique and nurturing environment for children to thrive.

The school’s curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and a global perspective. Students participate in hands-on activities, including gardening, art, and outdoor exploration, allowing them to connect with the world around them in meaningful ways. Anneliese Schools also emphasize foreign language instruction, with German, French, and Spanish integrated into the daily curriculum. This emphasis on cultural awareness and global citizenship sets Anneliese apart from other schools in the area.

Beyond traditional public and private schooling, Laguna Beach offers a variety of specialized programs and enrichment opportunities to support students' unique interests and needs.

For students with a passion for the performing arts, The Laguna Playhouse offers an array of educational programs designed to inspire creativity and build confidence. From acting workshops to musical theater camps, students of all ages can develop their talents and gain experience in the world of theater.

The Playhouse's programs are open to students from both Laguna Beach and surrounding communities, making it an excellent resource for families looking to nurture their children's artistic abilities.

SchoolPower is the Laguna Beach Education Foundation, a nonprofit organization that works to enrich the education experience for all students within the Laguna Beach Unified School District. Through fundraising efforts and community partnerships, SchoolPower provides financial support for innovative programs, technology upgrades, and additional resources that enhance the learning environment in local schools.

Parents and community members can get involved with SchoolPower by attending events, volunteering, or donating to help support the success of Laguna Beach schools.

Laguna Beach offers a wide range of educational options, from highly regarded public schools within the Laguna Beach Unified School District to private institutions with unique learning philosophies. Whether you are seeking academic rigor, arts education, or a holistic approach to learning, Laguna Beach has schools that cater to every child's needs.

If you're considering moving to Laguna Beach and want more information about the local school system or real estate opportunities in the area, reach out to Mike Johnson. With years of experience in the Laguna Beach real estate market, Mike can help you find the perfect home for your family in this vibrant and welcoming community.