Forest Charter

Tucked into the pines of Nevada City, Forest Charter draws families who want something a little different — a K-12 charter experience that blends academic fundamentals with the kind of independent, project-based learning that fits this artsy, free-thinking foothill community. Nevada City itself is a charming Gold Rush-era town with a strong local identity, farmers markets, and a culture that values creativity and outdoor life, making it a natural fit for families who want their kids' education to reflect those same values. Solid middle-of-the-road scores across the board suggest a school still finding its footing academically, but for families prioritizing a tight-knit, nontraditional environment over rankings, Forest Charter offers a genuinely distinct path from kindergarten all the way through graduation.