Finding the best elementary school in Bakersfield, CA means looking for one that combines strong academics, dedicated teachers, and a supportive environment that helps children thrive. There are several outstanding public, magnet, and private schools in the area recognized for their excellent test scores, student-focused programs, and active community participation. Each best elementary school in Bakersfield, CA offers something unique—whether it’s innovative teaching, STEM programs, or arts enrichment. Parents can explore the best elementary schools in Bakersfield, CA to find the right fit for their child’s learning style and goals. Here are ten of the best elementary schools in Bakersfield, CA, with insights into what makes each stand out.
1. Ronald Reagan Elementary School
Ronald Reagan Elementary is one of the best public schools in Bakersfield because its students consistently do better than the district average in both math and reading. The school has experienced teachers, a good student-teacher ratio, and a focused curriculum that helps students learn the basic academic skills they need.
Parents also like how involved the school is in the community and the extracurricular activities it offers, which help students in ways other than test scores. This is often the first choice for families looking for a school that values both academic success and a caring environment.
To read more about this school, please refer to its official website.
2. Downtown Elementary School
Downtown Elementary has a smaller number of students, which means that teachers can give each student more individual attention. It is known for having better-than-average reading skills, a strong school culture, and good academic results in both math and reading.
People in the community and parents are usually very involved here, which helps students learn outside of school. If you want smaller classes and more focused help with reading and writing, you should look into Downtown Elementary.
To read more about this school, please refer to its official website.
3. Highgate Elementary School
Highgate Elementary is one of the best public elementary schools in Bakersfield, especially in areas where academic resources are very different. Highgate is known for doing well in reading and math compared to many other public schools in the city. It has good teachers and a supportive learning environment.
The school wants to help students learn basic skills and feel more comfortable speaking up in class. Highgate is often the best choice for families who want strong core academics in a caring setting.
To read more about this school, please refer to its official website.
4. Stockdale Elementary School
Stockdale Elementary is known in Bakersfield for its great academics and wide range of programs. The school is often on lists of the best schools in the area because its students do well on tests, parents are involved, and teachers are helpful.
Students often get more than what is normal from enrichment programs, such as arts, STEM, or extra reading help. Not only do many families choose Stockdale because of the numbers, but also because of its culture and reputation in the community.
To read more about this school, please refer to its official website.
5. W.A. Kendrick Elementary School
W.A. Kendrick Elementary stands out because its students do better in both reading and math than students at many other schools in the area. It also has good student-teacher ratios and a dedication to teaching that includes everyone.
Families like the school because it has programs that help students with different needs and focuses on basic learning in the early grades. Parents often talk about Kendrick Elementary when they want a school that balances academics with a supportive environment.
6. Norris Elementary School
People have praised Norris Elementary for its dedication to making the school a good place to learn. People praise teachers for their hard work and ability to work with students from different backgrounds.
Norris provides a well-rounded education with a good student-to-teacher ratio and a wide range of programs, such as arts and extra reading or support. Parents often talk about how welcoming the school staff is and how well they communicate with them. Norris is a great choice for kids who need structure, support, and a variety of activities.
To read more about this school, please refer to its official website.
7. Del Rio Elementary School
Del Rio Elementary is one of the best public schools in Bakersfield when it comes to reading and math. The school may not always be the best, but it does a great job of providing a safe and supportive place to learn, with teachers who care about their students’ progress.
Families like that it focuses on making academic outcomes better and building community connections. Del Rio is a good choice if you want a school that is always working to help students grow and has dedicated staff.
8. Discovery Elementary School
People often like Discovery Elementary because its curriculum is open to all students and it encourages them to get involved. It does well in reading and gets better at math over time. It also has programs to help students who need extra help.
The school setting encourages students to work together, be creative, and feel like they belong, which keeps them motivated. Discovery is a great option for parents who want their kids to grow both academically and socially.
To read more about this school, please refer to its official website.
9. Almondale Elementary School
Almondale Elementary gives students a well-rounded education by focusing on reading, writing, and math as well as their overall growth. Even though the proficiency rates may not be very high, what stands out are the caring teachers, the positive school culture, and the dedication to helping students get better each year.
The school also stresses the importance of parents being involved and building strong basic skills. Almondale might be a good fit if your child is starting school early and you want a school that helps students develop their skills. Learn more about Almondale here.
10. Independence Elementary School
Independence Elementary is another strong choice, especially for families who want a school that supports students and the community while also focusing on academics.
It usually has a lot of different programs, encourages parents to get involved, and focuses on making classrooms safe and motivating for students. It may not always be at the top of standardized test scores, but its strengths are that it is always getting better, has caring teachers, and is dedicated to helping students grow. Those qualities make it one of the best in Bakersfield for a lot of parents. Check Independence Elementary here.
Conclusion
There are many excellent options when it comes to finding the best elementary school in Bakersfield, CA, and each one shines in its own unique way. Schools like Ronald Reagan, Stockdale, and Downtown are often recognized among the best elementary schools in Bakersfield, CA for their high test scores, smaller class sizes, supportive environments, and strong community engagement. Parents looking for the best elementary school in Bakersfield, CA can make the right choice by visiting schools, meeting teachers, and reviewing current performance data. Each best elementary school in Bakersfield, CA offers opportunities that help children grow academically and socially.
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FAQs:
Ronald Reagan Elementary often ranks among the top for combined proficiency in math and reading, plus strong community support and teaching quality.
Yes — schools like Downtown Elementary, Stockdale, and Highgate are known for above-average reading proficiency compared to many schools in the district.
Key factors include test score trends, student-teacher ratios, safety and school culture, support for diverse learners, and availability of enrichment or extracurricular programs.
Schools such as Discovery and Del Rio are noted for their year-over-year progress, particularly in reading and student engagement, which signal strong potential for growth.
