Alice Birney Elementary

Alice Birney Elementary sits in Colton, a working-class city in the Inland Empire where tight-knit neighborhoods and a strong sense of community pride define everyday life. The school serves families who value consistency and connection, though its academic scores — hovering near the bottom of California's rankings in English, math, and science — signal that it faces real challenges that families should weigh carefully. For parents in the area who are engaged and willing to supplement learning at home, Colton's affordable cost of living and proximity to the greater San Bernardino region can make it a reasonable place to put down roots while staying active in their child's education.