Phillip M. Stokoe Elementary

Stokoe Elementary sits in a working-class corner of west Riverside, an area that's seen a lot of growth as families priced out of coastal cities have settled into the Inland Empire. The school serves a tight-knit community where many families have deep roots in the neighborhood, and Alvord Unified has made real efforts to support students who need extra resources to reach grade level. Families who value a close community feel and are willing to get involved — connecting with teachers and taking advantage of district support programs — will find a school that genuinely cares about its kids, even as it works toward stronger academic outcomes.