Education
SCV Schools & Education
Santa Clarita Valley is known for its excellent public schools. Here's your guide to the districts, schools, and what makes SCV education stand out.
Why SCV Schools Stand Out
Education is one of the top reasons families move to Santa Clarita Valley. The valley's public schools consistently rank above state averages, and the community takes pride in supporting education at every level. SCV is served by several school districts, each with its own strengths, and families often choose their neighborhood based on school assignments.
4
School Districts
Serving the valley
Top 5%
West Ranch HS
Statewide ranking
30K+
Students Enrolled
Across all districts
High
Graduation Rates
Above state average
"When families ask me why they should move to Santa Clarita, schools are almost always the first thing I mention. The Hart District high schools — West Ranch, Valencia, Saugus — consistently outperform state averages, and the elementary feeder patterns make it easy to find a great school no matter which neighborhood you choose. It's one of the biggest reasons people stay here once they arrive."
School Districts
William S. Hart Union High School District
The primary high school district serving all of Santa Clarita Valley. Operates multiple high schools and junior highs, including the top-rated West Ranch High School and Valencia High School. Known for strong academics, competitive athletics, and extensive extracurricular programs.
Saugus Union School District
Serves elementary and middle school students in the Saugus and Valencia areas. One of the most established districts in the valley, known for strong community involvement and solid academic programs across its campuses.
Newhall School District
Serves the Newhall area with quality elementary and middle school education. The district emphasizes community engagement and well-rounded student development, with strong arts and STEM programs.
Castaic Union School District
Serves the Castaic area in the northern part of the valley. A smaller district with a community-oriented approach, providing personalized education in a more rural setting.
Schools to Know
While many SCV schools are strong, these are the ones that consistently get attention from families relocating to the area.
West Ranch High School
High School · Stevenson Ranch/Valencia
Consistently ranked in the top 5% of California public high schools. Strong academics, competitive athletics, and extensive extracurriculars. A primary draw for families moving to Stevenson Ranch.
Valencia High School
High School · Valencia
One of SCV's original high schools with a strong academic tradition. Known for its performing arts programs, athletics, and active parent community.
Rancho Pico Junior High
Junior High · Stevenson Ranch
Highly regarded middle school serving the Stevenson Ranch area. Known for strong academics and preparation for West Ranch High School.
Saugus High School
High School · Saugus
A well-established high school serving the Saugus community with solid academics, competitive sports, and a strong school spirit culture.
The Master's University
University · Newhall
A private Christian liberal arts university founded by radio pastor John MacArthur. Offers undergraduate and graduate programs in a small-campus setting.
College of the Canyons
Community College · Valencia
Well-regarded community college offering two-year degrees, transfer programs, and workforce training. A popular starting point for SCV students before transferring to four-year universities.
Visit WebsiteCommunity Resources & Organizations
Beyond K-12 schools, Santa Clarita Valley is home to organizations and institutions that support lifelong learning, workforce development, and community enrichment. These are some of the most valuable resources available to SCV residents.
College of the Canyons
Community College · Valencia
College of the Canyons (COC) is Santa Clarita Valley's community college, serving thousands of students each year from its campuses in Valencia and Canyon Country. COC offers associate degrees, certificate programs, and transfer pathways to four-year universities — making it one of the most accessible and affordable entry points for higher education in the region.
Beyond traditional academics, the college provides robust workforce development programs, community education classes for lifelong learners, and partnerships with local businesses to prepare students for in-demand careers. Whether you're a recent high school graduate, a working professional looking to upskill, or a veteran exploring education benefits, COC has a program designed for you.
- Associate degrees & certificates across 100+ programs of study
- Transfer pathways to CSU, UC, and private universities
- Workforce development programs aligned with local industry needs
- Community education classes for personal enrichment and professional growth
- Veteran-friendly with GI Bill acceptance and dedicated support services
The Master's University
Christian Liberal Arts University · Newhall
The Master's University is a private Christian liberal arts university located right here in Santa Clarita Valley's Newhall community. Founded by radio pastor John MacArthur, the university offers undergraduate and graduate programs across a range of disciplines — from biblical studies and business to science and the arts — in a small-campus setting that emphasizes rigorous academics and faith integration.
With its Newhall campus nestled in the heart of SCV, The Master's University provides local students with an accessible four-year education option without having to leave the valley. The university also contributes to the community through campus events, athletics, and partnerships with local organizations.
- Undergraduate programs in liberal arts, sciences, business, and ministry
- Graduate programs including an MBA and master's degrees
- Small campus experience with a tight-knit student community
Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center
Performing Arts Venue · College of the Canyons, Valencia
The Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center (PAC) is the premier performing arts venue in the valley, located on the College of the Canyons campus. This 47,000-square-foot facility features an 886-seat Main Stage and an intimate Black Box Theater, hosting a diverse season of professional concerts, theater productions, comedy shows, and dance performances alongside community and educational events.
From nationally touring artists to College of the Canyons student showcases, the PAC brings world-class performing arts to Santa Clarita — making it a cornerstone of local culture and a must-visit destination for arts lovers throughout the valley.
- 886-seat Main Stage and intimate Black Box Theater
- Professional concerts, theater, comedy, and dance throughout the year
- Community and educational programming including student showcases
California Institute of the Arts (CalArts)
World-Renowned Arts College · Valencia
California Institute of the Arts — commonly known as CalArts — is a world-renowned performing and visual arts college located right here in Valencia, California. Founded by Walt Disney in 1961, CalArts is one of the most prestigious arts institutions in the world, offering programs across art, design, film and video, music, theater, and dance.
For the Santa Clarita Valley, CalArts is a cultural gem — attracting creative talent from around the globe and enriching the local arts scene with student productions, exhibitions, and community events. It's a point of pride for SCV residents and a reminder that world-class arts education is right in the valley's backyard.
- Degree programs in art, design, film, music, theater, and dance
- Founded by Walt Disney in 1961 with a legacy of creative innovation
- World-class campus in Valencia hosting public exhibitions and performances
Questions About SCV Schools?
Sam has helped hundreds of families find homes in their desired school districts. He knows the feeder patterns, the school cultures, and which neighborhoods give you the best access.
Talk to Sam