Choosing the best elementary school in Bakersfield, California means balancing strong academics, supportive teachers, and a school environment that helps children thrive. Bakersfield has several public, magnet, and private elementary schools that stand out for test results, student support, and community involvement. Below are ten of the best elementary schools in Bakersfield. Each intro gives you a sense of strengths and what makes the school special. You can check more details via the provided link.
1. Ronald Reagan Elementary School
Ronald Reagan Elementary stands out among Bakersfield’s top public schools for its strong combined proficiency in math and reading, where students consistently beat many district averages. The school benefits from experienced teachers, solid student-teacher ratios, and a focused curriculum that supports core academic skills.
Parents also appreciate its community engagement and extracurricular opportunities, helping students beyond just test scores. For families seeking a school that emphasizes both academic excellence and a supportive environment, this is often a go-to. Learn more here.
2. Downtown Elementary School
Downtown Elementary offers a more intimate learning environment, serving fewer students which often means more personalized attention from teachers. It is recognized for its above-average reading proficiency, strong school culture, and solid academic outcomes in both math and literacy.
Community involvement and parent engagement tend to be strong here, helping reinforce learning outside the classroom. If your priority is smaller class sizes and focused literacy support, Downtown Elementary is worth exploring. Discover Downtown Elementary here.
3. Highgate Elementary School
Highgate Elementary is one of Bakersfield’s high-ranking public elementary schools, particularly in neighborhoods where academic resources vary widely. Known for its strong performance in reading and math (relative to many public schools in the city), Highgate offers solid teacher quality and a supportive learning environment.
The school aims to help students build foundational skills and grow confidence in classroom participation. For families looking for strong core academics delivered in a caring environment, Highgate is frequently a top choice. Check Highgate Elementary here.
4. Stockdale Elementary School
Stockdale Elementary is recognized in Bakersfield for its excellence in academics and its well-rounded program offerings. The school often appears in lists of standout schools in the region for its strong test scores, engaged parents, and supportive teachers.
Students benefit from enrichment programs often beyond the norm, including arts, STEM or extra reading support. Many families pick Stockdale not just for the numbers, but also for its culture and reputation in the community. Explore Stockdale Elementary here.
5. W.A. Kendrick Elementary School
W.A. Kendrick Elementary distinguishes itself with higher proficiency rates in both reading and math than many schools in its area. It also features solid student-teacher ratios and a commitment to inclusive teaching practices.
The school is appreciated by families for its programs that support diverse learners and focus on foundational learning in early grades. If you want a school that balances academics with a culture of support, Kendrick Elementary often comes up in parent conversations. Learn more here.
6. Norris Elementary School
Norris Elementary has been noted for its commitment to creating a positive learning environment. Teachers are praised for their dedication and ability to work with diverse student populations.
With relatively good student-teacher ratios and a breadth of programs, including arts and additional reading or support, Norris offers a balanced education. Parents often mention strong communication with school staff and a welcoming atmosphere. For children who benefit from structure, encouragement, and variety, Norris is a strong option. Check Norris Elementary here.
7. Del Rio Elementary School
Del Rio Elementary is known for respectable achievement in reading and math among Bakersfield public schools. While it may not always be the top performing, the school shines in providing a stable and supportive learning environment, with teachers who are invested in student progress.
Families value its focus on improving academic outcomes and community connections. If your priority is a school that works steadily on student growth with a committed staff, Del Rio is worth considering. Discover Del Rio Elementary here.
8. Discovery Elementary School
Discovery Elementary is often appreciated for its inclusive curriculum and focus on student engagement. It does well in reading and gradually improving in math, while also offering programs to support students needing extra help.
The school environment tends to foster collaboration among students, creativity, and a sense of belonging, which helps children feel motivated. For parents who value academic growth alongside social development, Discovery offers a promising mix. Explore Discovery Elementary here.
9. Almondale Elementary School
Almondale Elementary gives students a well-rounded experience, focusing on literacy, math, and holistic growth. Though proficiency rates may be moderate, what stands out are its supportive teachers, school culture, and commitment to helping students improve year over year.
The school also emphasizes parental involvement and building strong foundational skills. If your child is starting early and you want a school that invests in growing talents, Almondale might be a solid match. Learn more about Almondale here.
10. Independence Elementary School
Independence Elementary is another strong contender, especially for families who want a school that balances academic goals with community and student support.
It tends to offer a variety of programs, encourages parental engagement, and emphasizes classroom environments where students feel motivated and safe. While not always at the very top in standardized test rankings, its strength lies in steady improvement, caring faculty, and commitment to student growth. For many parents, those qualities make it one of the best in Bakersfield. Check Independence Elementary here.
Conclusion
Bakersfield boasts several excellent elementary schools that shine in different ways. Whether you prioritize high test scores, smaller class sizes, inclusive environments, or strong community engagement, schools like Ronald Reagan, Stockdale, and Downtown are often top choices. Visiting schools, meeting educators, and reviewing current performance data will help you decide which school best fits your child’s needs.
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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.
