Top 5 Elementary Schools in Placer & El Dorado Counties

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Are you moving to Placer or El Dorado County and want to know where your kids will get the best education? Or maybe you’re planning ahead and want your next home in a strong school zone. I’ve got you covered!

In this blog, I’ll walk you through the top five elementary schools in both Placer and El Dorado Counties based on ratings from GreatSchools.org, Niche.com, and real feedback from local families. I’ll also tell you which neighborhoods are closest to each school, so you’ll know where to start your home search.

Placer County’s Top Elementary Schools

1. Oak Hills Elementary – Granite Bay

• Rating: 9/10 (GreatSchools), A (Niche)

• District: Eureka Union School District

• Nearby Neighborhoods: Granite Bay Hills, Hidden Valley, Ashley Woods

Oak Hills is known for academic excellence, leadership development, and strong student character. Families love the safe environment and parent involvement, and the school feeds into Granite Bay High School, one of the top high schools in the region.

2. Valley View Elementary – Rocklin

• Rating: 9/10 (GreatSchools), A (Niche)

• District: Rocklin Unified School District

• Nearby Neighborhoods: Whitney Ranch, Sunset Ranch, Stafford Ranch

Valley View offers a balanced approach with strong academics, plus art, music, and student engagement. Teachers know students by name, and parents are true partners in education.

3. Blue Oaks Elementary – Roseville

• Rating: 9/10 (GreatSchools), A- (Niche)

• District: Dry Creek Joint Elementary School District

• Nearby Neighborhoods: West Park, Fitment Farm, Junction West

This newer campus emphasizes STEM, creativity, and critical thinking. Families love the modern feel and the school’s strong culture.

4. Loomis Grammar School – Loomis

• Rating: 8/10 (GreatSchools), A (Niche)

• District: Loomis Union School District

• Nearby Neighborhoods: Sterling Point, Cambridge Estates, rural Loomis homes

A smaller, traditional school with strong academics and community values. Ideal for families seeking space, privacy, and consistency.

5. 12 Bridges Elementary – Lincoln

• Rating: 8/10 (GreatSchools), A- (Niche)

• District: Western Placer Unified School District

• Nearby Neighborhoods: 12 Bridges Master Plan, Katabadera, Sarrento, Lincoln Crossing

Growing quickly in popularity, this school provides an excellent academic foundation with enrichment in science and leadership.

El Dorado County’s Top Elementary Schools

1. Lake Forest Elementary – El Dorado Hills

• Rating: 9/10 (GreatSchools), A (Niche)

• District: Rescue Union School District

• Nearby Neighborhoods: Serrano Village, Highland View, Stonegate

Lake Forest is known for strong academics, parent engagement, and connection to the Serrano community.

2. Oak Meadow Elementary – El Dorado Hills

• Rating: 9/10 (GreatSchools), A- (Niche)

• District: Rescue Union School District

• Nearby Neighborhoods: Waterford, The Summit, Francisco Oaks

Oak Meadow feeds directly into Oak Ridge High School, has a positive culture, and benefits from a very active PTA.

3. Silva Valley Elementary – El Dorado Hills

• Rating: 8/10 (GreatSchools), A- (Niche)

• Nearby Neighborhoods: Governor’s Village, Rolling Hill Estates, Fairchild Village

Silva Valley combines strong academics with social-emotional learning. It’s a nurturing, high-expectation environment in a quiet, family-friendly area.

4. Buckeye Elementary – Shingle Springs

• Rating: 8/10 (GreatSchools), B+ to A- (Niche)

• District: Buckeye Union School District

• Nearby Neighborhoods: Bar Ranch, Cameron Estates, Deer Creek Hills

Perfect for families wanting a rural lifestyle without sacrificing education. Small class sizes and experienced staff make it a standout.

5. Gold Trail Elementary – Placerville

• Rating: 8/10 (GreatSchools), B+ (Niche)

• Nearby Neighborhoods: Cold Springs, Camino Hills, Placerville Downtown

Surrounded by forests and foothills, Gold Trail combines scenic living with strong academics and supportive parents.

Whether you’re leaning toward the suburban communities of Placer County or the foothill charm of El Dorado County, these schools offer strong academics, engaged teachers, and supportive communities. They should absolutely be part of your home search strategy.

If you want to see which neighborhoods fit your budget and educational goals, I’d love to help you make a confident move.

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Jake