When considering a move to Sacramento for the sake of education, the first thing to look at is the school district.

Even if the house is a bit larger and newer, it can be hard to commit if the school isn't appealing. This is especially true if you have a high school student, as you need to think about college prospects. In Sacramento, there are significant differences in schools depending on the neighborhood, so it's better to look at schools first and narrow down the area rather than jumping straight into house hunting.

One of the well-known public high schools in Sacramento is C.K. McClatchy High School. It is part of the Sacramento City Unified School District and is located in the Land Park area. Opened in 1937, the school has a long history. While it has a different atmosphere compared to the newer, more modern schools, it offers AP classes and runs an IB program. For parents looking for IB options in Sacramento public schools, this school stands out. It's not just an academic school; it also has a vibrant sports and extracurricular activities scene.

However, families with children often don't limit themselves to downtown Sacramento and are willing to go as far south as Elk Grove for a reason. The Elk Grove Unified School District consistently receives praise for its quality schools.

Among these, Sheldon High School is frequently mentioned. It has a wide selection of AP courses and is well-regarded for students interested in math and science. Elk Grove itself has many new housing developments and a lot of families, so Korean parents often consider the Sheldon district when looking for homes.

Franklin High School is also hard to overlook. It is part of the Elk Grove Unified School District and offers a variety of student activities, including academics, sports, and clubs. The student body is quite diverse, and there are many Asian students, which means that Korean children are less likely to feel culturally out of place when they attend this school.

The Sacramento City Unified School District has quite a bit of variation between schools. Therefore, parents who place a high importance on school districts often expand their search beyond downtown Sacramento to include suburban areas like Elk Grove, Folsom, and Roseville. They are willing to endure a bit of inconvenience in their commute for the sake of their children's education.

However, there is something important to be cautious about. Just because a real estate website indicates that a good school is nearby, it doesn't guarantee that your child will be assigned to that school. Sometimes, crossing a street can mean a different school district.

If you find a house you like, be sure to check the school performance and graduation rates on the California School Dashboard before signing a contract, and verify the assigned school by entering the exact address on the district's website. The saying that you should check the school district before the house when raising kids in the U.S. is not without reason.