Encinitas

Encinitas: Majestic Coastline and Beach Community

Located along six miles of Pacific coastline in northern San Diego County, Encinitas has an approximate population of 60,000 and is characterized by coastal beaches, cliffs, flat-topped coastal areas, steep mesa bluffs and rolling hills. The city was incorporated in 1986, drawing together the communities of New Encinitas, Old Encinitas, Cardiff-by-the-Sea, Olivenhain and Leucadia.

The beaches in Encinitas are outstanding. There are many stretches of beach that lie between Cardiff-by-the-Sea and La Costa. The surfing is unbeatable and many surf contests are held throughout the year in Encinitas. The San Elijo Lagoon Reserve is the largest coastal wetland in San Diego County and is home to nearly 300 different bird species throughout the year. Moonlight Beach accomodates interests for every age with concerts, a playground, and bonfire pits.

Just a short walk from the beach is Downtown 101, a coastal shopping district over 100 years old featuring historic architecture, quaint shops, sidewalk cafes, and restaurants framed by beautiful flower baskets.

The Prestigious Encinitas Union School District

The Encinitas Union School District serves the City of Encinitas and the La Costa area of Carlsbad in North San Diego County. Approximately 5,600 students in Kindergarten -6th grade are enrolled in the District's nine schools encompassing ten different sites. All of our District's schools have been recognized as California Distinguished Schools, and La Costa Heights School and Olivenhain Pioneer have been recognized as National Blue Ribbon Schools.

The District serves a diverse and varied community. The student population is approximately 15% Hispanic, 3% Asian, 80 % Caucasian, and 3% other minorities.

La Costa Heights, Olivenhain Pioneer Elementary, and Paul Ecke Central/Pacific View were named California Distinguished Schools in 1996-1997. Capri Elementary, Mission Estancia and Park Dale Lane were recognized as California Distinguished schools during the 1997-98 school year. Flora Vista Elementary and Ocean Knoll were recognized as California Distinguished Schools in 1999-00. The Distinguished Schools program recognizes approximately 225 elementary schools every other year who are doing an exemplary job of educating students.

All three Encinitas districts (Encinitas USD, San Dieguito UHSD, and Cardiff USD) consistently rate high in the state and county for their student test scores and academic and supplemental programs. Scores on the SAT9 test place the districts far above the county average in all subjects.

Encinitas' school history of recognition for outstanding schools is a tribute to the efforts of the Encinitas staff, students, community participants, and parents who are actively involved with the schools.