Start by reviewing state and district performance data through the California School Dashboard and the Long Beach Unified School District (LBUSD) website. Look for schools in North Long Beach with strong test scores, positive growth metrics, and high graduation or promotion rates. Combine this with third-party review sites that offer parent feedback, but prioritize official data and school report cards. Visiting campuses, talking with administrators and teachers, and reviewing school accountability plans will give you a more complete picture of each school’s quality and fit for your child’s needs.

Focus on academic performance, class sizes, teacher qualifications, and the range of programs offered, such as Advanced Placement (AP), honors, dual-language, STEM, and arts programs. Examine school climate indicators, including suspension rates, attendance, and social-emotional supports. It is also important to consider campus safety, available extracurricular activities, access to counseling and college guidance, and how well the school communicates with families. Finally, evaluate whether the school’s culture, values, and support services align with your child’s learning style and long-term goals.

School assignments in North Long Beach are generally based on residential address and attendance boundaries set by the Long Beach Unified School District. Each address is linked to a designated neighborhood elementary, middle, and high school. You can confirm your assigned schools by using the boundary lookup tool on the LBUSD website or contacting the district directly. In some cases, families may request a transfer or apply for a specialized or magnet program outside their boundary, but these options are subject to availability, application timelines, and district approval processes.

Many schools serving North Long Beach students offer magnet, academy, or specialized pathways focused on areas such as health sciences, technology, engineering, arts, or college-preparatory curricula. These programs may be housed on neighborhood campuses or at designated magnet schools within the Long Beach Unified School District. To explore options, review the district’s School Choice or School Options guide, which details themes, admission criteria, and application deadlines. Families should attend information nights or open houses to understand program expectations, transportation options, and how a particular pathway supports long-term academic and career goals.

Begin by scheduling a tour with each school’s main office or attending designated open house events. During your visit, observe classroom environments, student engagement, and how staff interact with families. Ask about academic supports, special education services, English learner programs, and enrichment opportunities. Request information on recent test scores, graduation or promotion data, and college or career readiness indicators. It is also helpful to speak with current parents or guardians, review the school’s website and handbook, and note practical considerations such as commute time, start and end times, and after-school care options before making a final decision.