Heron

Heron is a solid K-8 option in the fast-growing Natomas area of North Sacramento, where newer subdivisions and family-friendly neighborhoods have made the community increasingly popular with young families planting roots. The extended grade span means kids can stay in one place from kindergarten through 8th grade, which a lot of families really appreciate, and the school holds its own academically with particularly strong science scores. If you're drawn to the energy of a developing community that's still finding its identity — close to the airport corridor but with plenty of parks and new amenities popping up — Heron is worth a close look.