Modesto City Schools has provided exemplary educational programs for students in the community since 1871.  Education in the District involves not only teaching curriculum based on state standards, but also a three year Strategic Plan focused on placing “A Diploma in Every Hand.”

The District is composed of an elementary district (K-8) and a high school district (9-12) with a common Board of Education and administration.  Seven other school districts feed into Modesto City Schools at the high school level.

The current enrollment is approximately 32,000 students.  Students are served at 23 elementary schools (K-6), four junior high schools (7-8), six comprehensive high schools (9-12), and an alternative education program which includes an opportunity and continuation school, independent study and adult evening high school.  A seventh comprehensive high school, Joseph Gregori High School, is on schedule for a Fall 2010 opening. 

Several schools offer unique programs such as the Fremont Elementary School Open Plan, a Spanish Language program at La Loma Junior High, and high school pathways/academies in areas such as Forensics, Public Safety, Child Development, Health Careers, Graphic Communications, and Business Entrepreneurship.  The International Baccalaureate program at Modesto High School was recognized in July, 2008 for its 85% diploma pass rate, 13 points higher than the State average!