For the 2025 school year, there are 8 public schools serving 4,570 students in El Cerrito, CA (there are 4 private schools, serving 862 private students). 84% of all K-12 students in El Cerrito, CA are educated in public schools (compared to the CA state average of 90%).
The top ranked public schools in El Cerrito, CA are Madera Elementary School, Harding Elementary School and El Cerrito High School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
El Cerrito, CA public schools have an average math proficiency score of 36% (versus the California public school average of 33%), and reading proficiency score of 49% (versus the 47% statewide average). Schools in El Cerrito have an average ranking of 7/10, which is in the top 50% of California public schools.
Minority enrollment is 76% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the California public school average of 80% (majority Hispanic).
Best Public Schools in El Cerrito, CA (2025)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Grades
Students
Rank: #11.
Madera Elementary School
(Math: 68% | Reading: 71%)
Rank:
Rank:
10/
Top 10%10
8500 Madera Dr.
El Cerrito, CA 94530
(510) 231-1412
El Cerrito, CA 94530
(510) 231-1412
Grades: K-6
| 467 students
Rank: #22.
Harding Elementary School
(Math: 45% | Reading: 58%)
Rank:
Rank:
8/
Top 30%10
7230 Fairmont Ave.
El Cerrito, CA 94530
(510) 231-1413
El Cerrito, CA 94530
(510) 231-1413
Grades: K-6
| 474 students
Rank: #33.
El Cerrito High School
(Math: 32% | Reading: 51%)
Rank:
Rank:
7/
Top 50%10
540 Ashbury Ave.
El Cerrito, CA 94530
(510) 231-1437
El Cerrito, CA 94530
(510) 231-1437
Grades: 9-12
| 1,476 students
Rank: #44.
Fred T. Korematsu Middle School
(Math: 34% | Reading: 42%)
Rank:
Rank:
6/
Top 50%10
7125 Donal Ave.
El Cerrito, CA 94530
(510) 231-1449
El Cerrito, CA 94530
(510) 231-1449
Grades: 7-8
| 680 students
Rank: #55.
Fairmont Elementary School
(Math: 33% | Reading: 40%)
Rank:
Rank:
6/
Top 50%10
724 Kearney St.
El Cerrito, CA 94530
(510) 231-1448
El Cerrito, CA 94530
(510) 231-1448
Grades: K-6
| 530 students
Rank: #66.
Invictus Academy Of Richmond
Charter School
(Math: 20-24% | Reading: 45-49%)
Rank:
Rank:
5/
Bottom 50%10
7150 Portola Dr.
El Cerrito, CA 94530
(510) 994-0888
El Cerrito, CA 94530
(510) 994-0888
Grades: 7-12
| 389 students
Rank: #77.
Summit Public School K2
Charter School
(Math: 13% | Reading: 44%)
Rank:
Rank:
4/
Bottom 50%10
1800 Elm St.
El Cerrito, CA 94530
(510) 374-4093
El Cerrito, CA 94530
(510) 374-4093
Grades: 7-12
| 554 students
El Cerrito, California Public Schools (Closed)
School
Location
Grades
Students
7125 Donal Ave.
El Cerrito, CA 94530
(510) 234-6200
El Cerrito, CA 94530
(510) 234-6200
Grades: K-6
| 249 students
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top ranked public schools in El Cerrito, CA?
The top ranked public schools in El Cerrito, CA include Madera Elementary School, Harding Elementary School and El Cerrito High School.
How many public schools are located in El Cerrito?
8 public schools are located in El Cerrito.
What percentage of students in El Cerrito go to public school?
84% of all K-12 students in El Cerrito are educated in public schools (compared to the CA state average of 90%).
What is the racial composition of students in El Cerrito?
El Cerrito public schools minority enrollment is 76% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the California public schools average of 80% (majority Hispanic).
Which public schools in El Cerrito are often viewed compared to one another?
Popular comparisons of public schools in El Cerrito include: Fairmont Elementary School vs. Harding Elementary School, Harding Elementary School vs. Fairmont Elementary School, Madera Elementary School vs. Harding Elementary School
Recent Articles

What Is A Charter School?
Explore the world of charter schools in this comprehensive guide. Learn about their history, how they operate, and the pros and cons of this educational innovation. Discover key facts about charter schools, including admission policies, demographics, and funding, as well as what to look for when considering a charter school for your child.

10 Reasons Why High School Sports Benefit Students
Discover the 10 compelling reasons why high school sports are beneficial for students. This comprehensive article explores how athletics enhance academic performance, foster personal growth, and develop crucial life skills. From improved fitness and time management to leadership development and community representation, learn why participating in high school sports can be a game-changer for students' overall success and well-being.

February 05, 2025
Understanding the U.S. Department of Education: Structure, Impact, and EvolutionWe explore how the Department of Education shapes American education, from its cabinet-level leadership to its impact on millions of students, written for general audiences seeking clarity on this vital institution.