Dunham Charter

Tucked into the western edge of Petaluma, Dunham Charter is a small, independent school that draws families who want something a little different from a traditional district school — and the results speak for themselves, with strong scores across English, math, and science. It's a good fit for parents who value an intentional school community and don't mind a rural-feeling commute to get there. Petaluma itself has a great small-city energy — farm-to-table restaurants, a walkable downtown, and easy access to both wine country and the coast — making it a genuinely appealing place to put down roots.