Empowering Minds: Education and Schools in Our Community
Specialized Programs and Educational Excellence
Folsom schools offer specialized educational programs that cater to diverse student interests and learning styles. A strong emphasis on STEM education is evident through programs like the nationally recognized Project Lead The Way (PLTW) curriculum. The award-winning Riverview STEM Academy exemplifies hands-on, project-based learning that develops critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
- Project Lead The Way implemented across elementary to high schools
- Riverview STEM Academy leading innovative STEM learning
- Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) programs for advanced learners
- Strong arts education including award-winning music programs at Vista Del Lago
- Recent investments in technology, facilities, and curriculum development
Academic Excellence in a Supportive Environment
Folsom's public schools consistently rank among California's best, offering top-tier academics in a community-centered environment. The Folsom-Cordova Unified School District leads with innovative programs and strong partnerships between educators and families.
- Schools rank in the top 10% of California public schools
- Math proficiency: 64% vs. 33% state average
- Reading proficiency: 75% vs. 47% state average
- Recent California Distinguished School awards for multiple campuses
- Vista Del Lago and Folsom High School offer robust AP programs and extracurriculars
- Folsom High School's Academic Decathlon team competes at national levels
Public School Excellence
Serving over 20,900 students across 37 schools, the district balances rigorous academics with a strong community feel.
- Vista Del Lago High School: 20 AP courses, 54% AP participation rate, PLTW STEM curriculum
- Folsom High School: 96% graduation rate, top 10% statewide, ranked #6 in Sacramento
- Middle schools: Folsom Middle and Sutter Middle prepare students for success
- Elementary schools: consistently exceed state standards in foundational learning
Private and Alternative Options
Folsom offers 12 private schools with high acceptance rates and diverse learning environments—from faith-based education to Montessori and homeschooling support.
- St. John Notre Dame: top-ranked Catholic education
- Folsom Preparatory School: individualized instruction and enrichment focus
- Folsom Educational Academy: Islamic education from preschool through 8th grade
- Sundance Montessori School: alternative Montessori approach
- Folsom Cordova Community Charter: homeschool support and alternative learning
Higher Education Access
Folsom's strategic location offers excellent access to higher education, from local community college options to world-class universities within easy driving distance.
- Folsom Lake College: associate degrees, career certificates, MESA STEM program
- Sacramento State University: 150+ majors, 20 minutes from Folsom
- UC Davis: nationally ranked public research university, 40-minute drive
- William Jessup University and other nearby private institutions
- Access to online degree programs through regional partnerships
Folsom's educational ecosystem offers academic rigor, personalized attention, and a supportive environment—making it the ideal place for physician families seeking excellence from preschool through postgraduate study.
