El Segundo isn’t just known for its coastal charm and small-town feel. It’s also recognized for its high-performing schools, strong sense of community, and family-friendly lifestyle. School quality is often one of the biggest factors for families considering a move.
If you’re considering a move, exploring El Segundo real estate is a great next step. In this guide, we’ll highlight some of the top public and private schools in El Segundo, helping you get a better feel for what educational options are available in coastal Los Angeles.
Public Schools in El Segundo, CA
All public El Segundo Schools fall under the El Segundo Unified School District (ESUSD), a highly rated, tight-knit district known for academic excellence and community engagement. It’s student-to-teacher ratio of approximately 24:1 reflects the district’s commitment to its students’ success.
El Segundo High School
- Grades: 9–12
- 4-Year Graduation Rate: 98% (state avg. 86%) according to greatschools.com
- Overview: A distinguished public school, El Segundo High offers a variety of AP classes, honors programs, strong athletics, and award-winning arts and drama departments.
- Highlights:
- Advanced Placement (AP) programs in STEM, Humanities, and the Arts
- Strong college counseling support
- Highly involved parent and alumni networks
- Location: Central El Segundo, close to downtown and residential neighborhoods.
- School Website
El Segundo Middle School
- Grades: 6–8
- Overview: El Segundo Middle School is known for offering a Gifted & Talented program, International Baccalaureate, and Project Lead The Way curriculum. – Greatschools.com
- It is the only middle school in the El Segundo Unified School District.
- Highlights:
- Accelerated math and language arts tracks
- Award-winning robotics and debate teams
- Vibrant performing arts and music programs
- School Website
Center Street Elementary School
- Grades: TK–5
- Overview: Located in the heart of El Segundo, Center Street Elementary is a well-established part of the community, offering strong foundational academics and extensive enrichment programs.
- Highlights:
- Outdoor education and hands-on learning are emphasized
- Strong parental involvement through PTA and school events
- School Website
Richmond Street Elementary School
- Grades: TK–5
- Overview: A top-rated elementary option, Richmond Street focuses on academic excellence paired with social-emotional learning to create a well-rounded experience for students.
- Highlights:
- Comprehensive reading and literacy programs
- Extracurricular clubs in arts, chess, and science
- School Website
Private and Alternative School Options Near El Segundo, CA
In addition to excellent public schools, families in El Segundo also have access to highly regarded private institutions nearby:
Vistamar School (El Segundo adjacent)
- Grades: 9–12
- Overview: An independent, college-preparatory high school offering a globally-minded curriculum, Vistamar is known for small class sizes and individualized instruction, focusing on developing the skills of its students.
- Highlights:
- Advanced college prep and advisory programs
- Strong arts, language, and athletics offerings
- School Website
Da Vinci Schools (Hawthorne/El Segundo)
- Grades: K–12 (through various specialized schools)
- Overview: Charter schools focused on project-based learning, offering innovative alternatives for students interested in STEM, design, or business pathways.
- School Website
Why Families Choose El Segundo for Education
El Segundo’s size is part of its advantage. With a close-knit community feel, small class sizes, and a school district that consistently outperforms state averages, it feels more personal and connected than larger LA districts.
Other benefits include:
- Safe, walkable neighborhoods
- Proximity to Silicon Beach tech employers (perfect for commuting parents)
- Access to beach lifestyle and outdoor activities
- A strong culture of parental involvement across all schools
Many families find that El Segundo perfectly balances high-quality education, coastal living, and a true sense of community.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right school is one of families’ most important decisions when relocating or choosing a first home, and in El Segundo, the choices are exceptional. Whether you’re looking for top-rated public education or a private school experience nearby, El Segundo offers a range of options to support your children’s educational journey.
Considering a move to El Segundo?
Browse available homes near top-rated schools to find the perfect place to call home.
