Marina Vista Elementary

Marina Vista Elementary sits in the city of Marina, a laid-back coastal community just north of Monterey that's known for its wide open beaches, steady ocean breezes, and more affordable living than its neighbors down the coast. The school serves a diverse, working-class community, and while test scores place it in the lower tier statewide, its science scores show a notably stronger footing — not surprising given the rich natural environment surrounding it. Families who are deeply rooted in the Marina community and value a neighborhood school with a lot of heart may find it a comfortable fit, especially if they're willing to stay engaged and supplement academics at home.