Knights Ferry Elementary

Knights Ferry Elementary sits in one of California's most charming Gold Rush-era towns along the Stanislaus River, where the historic covered bridge and small-town atmosphere make it feel like a world apart from the sprawling Central Valley suburbs nearby. With strong English and math scores that put it well above most California elementary schools, this little K-8 school punches well above its weight for such a tiny community. Families who want a tight-knit school where teachers actually know every kid by name — and who love the idea of raising children in a genuinely historic, outdoorsy setting — will find a lot to appreciate here.