If you’re kids are exceptional learners, I think you would be disappointed with just about every california public schools that are ranked “good”, simply because of the way resources/time are dedicated to bringing the less than average kids and average kids on par. (Won’t go into the issues with the no-kid-left-behind program). You’re options are probably better off in private schools.
Frankly, some of these “GATE” programs imho vary in usefulness. Plenty of my most successful colleagues never attended them. And conversely, I’m living proof that the GATE programs don’t really help significantly :). Up until the funding issues, CV schools did more ESC enrichment programs…But from what I’ve seen the difference between CV and Poway schools is negligible if any.
I guess you pay for the environment more so than the actual educational content.(Ie you find less gangbangers in better areas then somewhere else).
Fortunately, I have 2-3 more years before I decide whether to send my kid to a private school. The flip side of private schools (aside from cost) is that they tend to be more of a sheltered learning imho.
Alternatively, you can do what some of the parents I know do. Send them to an above average public school, then do an enrichment program afterschool at a private place. Let me know if you need a list.
