Joseph H. Wardlaw Elementary

Wardlaw Elementary sits in Vallejo's eastern neighborhoods, a city with a gritty, working-class character and a surprisingly tight-knit community feel right on the edge of the Bay Area. The school lands in the middle of the pack for the state, with science scores that outshine its English and math numbers — a small bright spot worth noting for families weighing their options. Families who are rooted in the area and looking for a neighborhood school with a familiar community vibe will feel at home here, especially those willing to stay engaged and supplement where academics may need a little extra support.