Comprehensive Public Education
As you establish your family in Visalia, you'll find a public education system committed to quality learning across all grade levels. Visalia Unified School District (VUSD) serves approximately 30,000 students, offering strong academic foundations and innovative programs that support future success. Unlike crowded urban districts, Visalia schools provide personalized attention and community connection.
- 26 elementary, 5 middle, 4 comprehensive high schools, and 1 continuation high school
- Smaller class sizes than California averages—especially in elementary
- Specialized magnet programs in science, arts, and global studies
- 90% graduation rate, exceeding the state average
Elementary Excellence
Visalia’s elementary schools emphasize academic fundamentals, social-emotional development, and positive learning environments.
- Top-rated schools: Hurley, Oak Grove, Shannon Ranch
- Dual language immersion: Available at Highland Elementary
- Active PTA/PTO organizations: Encourage parental involvement
- Support services: Tailored to diverse learning needs
Middle School Transitions
Visalia’s middle schools provide a strong bridge between elementary and high school, with growing opportunities in academics, arts, and leadership.
- Positive reputations: Green Acres, Valley Oak, La Joya
- Expanding STEM: Robotics, coding, and hands-on science
- Arts education: Band, choir, drama, and visual arts
- Clubs & sports: Foster teamwork and personal growth
High School Opportunities
Visalia’s high schools offer college prep and career pathway options with well-rounded academic, athletic, and extracurricular programming.
- Schools: El Diamante, Golden West, Mt. Whitney, Redwood
- Advanced Placement & honors programs: With high pass rates
- Career Technical Education (CTE): Pathways in healthcare, ag, business, and more
- Championship athletic teams: With strong school spirit and community support
College Connection Academy
Ambitious students benefit from the College Connection Academy, allowing them to earn college credits while still in high school.
- Earn up to 60 credits: During high school through College of the Sequoias
- Accelerated university track: Enter four-year schools as transfer students
- Lower college costs: Significant tuition savings
- Dedicated counseling: For students on this advanced academic path
Private Education Options
Families seeking alternatives to public schools find strong private and charter offerings in Visalia that reflect religious and secular values.
- Central Valley Christian Schools: Christ-centered K–12 education
- St. Paul’s & George McCann: Catholic instruction through middle school
- Visalia Christian Schools & Global Learning Charter: Additional options for various philosophies
- Affordable tuition: Lower than private schools in metro areas
Higher Education Access
Residents benefit from accessible post-secondary education through both local institutions and nearby university campuses.
- College of the Sequoias: Transfer-focused and career-track programs
- Fresno State & Fresno Pacific: Within commuting distance
- San Joaquin Valley College: Career-specific programs (healthcare, business)
- Online learning: Flexible degree programs through national universities
Special Education Services
Visalia Unified is committed to inclusive education and customized support for students with special needs.
- Full range of services: From mild support to intensive intervention
- Family-driven IEP planning: With collaborative teams
- Post-secondary transition support: Career and life readiness
- Programs for autism and specific learning needs throughout the district
STEM and Advanced Learning
STEM education is a growing priority, providing hands-on, real-world learning experiences at every grade level.
- Elementary STEM labs: Project-based foundations
- Middle school robotics & coding: Technical skill development
- High school engineering pathways: Leading into college majors
- Annual STEM Expo: Showcases student innovation and connects with industry
