How to Choose the Best Schools in Palo Alto

Thinking of moving to Palo Alto and wondering about the schools? You’re not alone. Education is one of the biggest reasons families choose to settle in this thriving Bay Area city. From top-ranked elementary schools to standout high schools and private institutions, Palo Alto’s education scene is packed with opportunities.

Whether you’re planning ahead for kindergarten or looking at college options, here’s what you need to know about the best schools in Palo Alto.

Best Elementary Schools in Palo Alto

Palo Alto is home to several high-performing elementary schools that consistently rank among California’s best. Many are part of the Palo Alto Unified School District (PAUSD), known for its strong academics and community support. Some schools have tight neighborhood boundaries, so knowing your zoned school early is essential.

Some top elementary schools include:

• Duveneck Elementary – Praised for its inclusive environment and strong test scores.
• Walter Hays Elementary – Known for a vibrant campus culture and innovative teaching methods.
• Addison Elementary – Located near downtown, this school offers a well-rounded curriculum and great parent involvement.

Palo Alto Middle School Options

Middle school can be a big transition, but Palo Alto middle schools help students navigate these years with care and rigor. Look for enrichment programs, leadership opportunities, and emotional support services that fit your child’s needs. PAUSD includes two standout options:

• Greene Middle School – Offers advanced STEM programs and strong extracurriculars.
• JLS Middle School – Celebrated for its diversity, excellent faculty, and music and arts programs.

Top-Rated Palo Alto High Schools

When it comes to Palo Alto high schools, there are two public options available to locals. Both public options are highly competitive and nationally ranked. They both boast strong reputations and different academic cultures:

• Palo Alto High School (Paly) – With a century-long history, Paly offers over 100 electives, a thriving athletics program, and deep college prep resources. Traditional campus layout and larger arts programs.
• Gunn High School – Known for academic intensity, Gunn regularly sends students to top-tier universities and offers extensive AP and Honors classes. Tech-forward approach with lots of STEM opportunities.

Private and Alternative Schools in Palo Alto

If you’re looking for alternatives to public school, Palo Alto has a number of well-respected private schools and specialized programs:

• Castilleja School – An all-girls middle and high school offering rigorous academics in a nurturing environment.
• Keys School – A K–8 school focused on social-emotional learning and project-based education.
• Waldorf School of the Peninsula – Offers a holistic approach to education, popular with families seeking a balanced alternative.

Some charter schools and language immersion programs also serve the Palo Alto area, so if you have a specific learning style or environment in mind, there’s likely a good fit nearby.

Higher Education in Palo Alto

Is Palo Alto University a Good School?

If you’re considering higher education, Palo Alto University is a respected, psychology-focused private university that offers undergraduate and graduate degrees. It’s best known for its clinical psychology programs, small class sizes, and strong faculty support.

Students looking for a tight-knit academic community that emphasizes mental health, counseling, and behavioral science often find PAU a great match. While not as large or well-known as nearby Stanford, it provides unique value, especially for students pursuing psychology and related fields.

Top Universities Near Palo Alto

1. Stanford University – Elite private research university with top programs across disciplines.
2. Santa Clara University – Jesuit university known for business, engineering, and law.
3. San José State University – Public university with strong programs in engineering and business.

Top Community Colleges Near Palo Alto

1. Foothill College – Highly ranked, strong transfer programs to UC/CSU.
2. De Anza College – Excellent academics and high university transfer rates.
3. Cañada College – Small, supportive campus with strong transfer pathways.

What to Look For When Researching Schools (Bonus Checklist!)

When you’re choosing a school—whether it’s for your kindergartner or your college-bound teen—it’s about more than test scores and reputations. The right fit supports your child’s academic goals, nurtures their interests, and provides a safe, welcoming environment to grow. From education merit to school culture, there are key qualities that set exceptional schools apart:

1. Academics: Will your student be challenged here and actually enjoy learning?
2. Extracurriculars: Are there fun clubs, sports, or activities your student would be excited to join?
3. Class Size: Does it feel like a place where your student will be happy, safe, and supported?
4. Safety: Are there appropriate safety measures in place, and how does the school handle safety complaints from students?
5. Graduation Prep: Is this school helping students get ready for what comes after graduation?
6. Community: Do the teachers and families seem connected and invested in the school?

Download our bonus checklist of what to look for in a school so you know you’re making the best choice possible:

Ready to Make the Move? Joshua’s Moving & Packing Can Help

Choosing the right school can feel like a full-time job—but it’s worth the effort. With access to some of the best elementary schools in Palo Alto, standout Palo Alto middle schools, and nationally ranked high schools, your child’s education is in good hands.

Let us help make your family’s transition a little easier. Joshua’s Moving & Packing offers dependable, local Bay Area moving services tailored to families. We’ll handle the logistics so you can focus on the big stuff, like your child’s future.

Contact us today for a free moving quote and download our Ultimate Moving Checklist to keep your move stress-free from start to finish. Then check out our blog for more moving tips and guides to the Bay Area. Welcome to your new home—and a new beginning in Palo Alto!