John Muir Charter

Nevada City is a charming Gold Rush-era town tucked into the Sierra Nevada foothills, known for its arts scene, outdoor lifestyle, and independent spirit — and John Muir Charter reflects that same unconventional energy. As a charter school serving high schoolers across Nevada County, it tends to draw families who are already exploring alternative paths like homeschooling or independent study, rather than those prioritizing traditional academic benchmarks. The school's test scores run well below state averages, so families focused on college-prep outcomes may want to explore other options in the region.