Nevada County Schools

are among the highest in the state as reported by the California Department of Education, second only to Marin County. Exceeds the statewide average in every subject, at every grade level. STAR Test Results

In 2003-2004, the average verbal/math score for Nevada County students was 1099, which ranked Nevada County 2nd out of 58 counties. The national average verbal/math score for the same period was 1026.

The average ACT score for Nevada County students in 2003-2004 was 24.3. Only two counties in the state of California, had scores that were higher. The national average was 20.9.

Over 70% of high school graduates progress to higher educational institution (community college, CSU, UC, and private schools). 45% of graduates complete the A-G requirements for UC/CSU schools.

94.2% of the teachers in Nevada County are fully credentialed teachers.

Field of Dreams at Hennessy School

Nevada County offers school choice through open enrollment in elementary schools and high schools.

A variety of educational options exist. Single K-8 schools, small rural schools, larger mid-size schools, charter schools and academic specialty schools. School Directory

Nevada County boasts the greatest number of charter schools per capita in California. A variety of educational offerings are available in each of the nine charters.

Nevada Union High School, Alta Sierra Elementary, Pleasant Ridge Elementary and Cottage Hill Elementary were named Blue Ribbon Schools by the President for academic excellence. Nevada City School of the Arts is the first charter school in the nation to earn the Blue Ribbon award.

Bear River High School

Many schools throughout the county, in the past decade, have been recognized as Distinguished Schools by the Governor for academic excellence, the most recent being Union Hill School.

Sierra College is among the top 1% of United States community colleges in awarding Associate Degrees – 4th in California. Course work at the Nevada County Campus is available in most degree and certificate areas, with some exceptions. A student choosing to attend only this campus has these Associate degree and certificate opportunities.

Day is done at Nevada Union High School

Follow these links to learn more about Nevada County schools:

Nevada County Superintendent of Schools
School Accountability Report Cards
     Bear River High School Accountability Report Card
School Directory
STAR Test Results

Graduation at Sierra College