Sierra Sands Unified School District

Schools & Education

A complete guide to Ridgecrest's schools, from kindergarten through community college.

Sierra Sands Unified School District

Ridgecrest's public schools are part of the Sierra Sands Unified School District (SSUSD), which serves Ridgecrest, Inyokern, and surrounding communities in the Indian Wells Valley. The district operates multiple elementary, middle, and high schools, plus alternative education programs.

SSUSD benefits from strong ties to the NAWS China Lake community, which brings an educated, career-oriented parent base and robust parental involvement. The district offers Advanced Placement courses, JROTC, performing arts, athletics, and career technical education pathways.

SSUSD
District
Sierra Sands USD
7
Public Schools
K-12 schools
2
Private Schools
Options
1
Higher Ed
Cerro Coso

Higher Education

Community College

Cerro Coso Community College

Grades: College (13–14) · 3000 College Heights Blvd, Ridgecrest, CA 93555

(760) 384-6100Website

Ridgecrest's own accredited community college, offering two-year associate degrees, transfer pathways to UC and CSU campuses, vocational and career technical programs, and continuing education — all without leaving town.

Associate of Arts & Science degreesUC/CSU transfer pathwaysVocational & CTE programsVeteran services & supportOnline course optionsFinancial aid available

Public Schools (K–12)

High SchoolGrades 9–12

Burroughs High School

Sierra Sands Unified School District

(760) 499-0900Website

The flagship high school of Ridgecrest, home of the Burros. Offers a full range of Advanced Placement courses, JROTC, performing arts, athletics, and career technical education pathways.

AP & Honors coursesJROTC programPerforming arts & dramaVarsity athletics (16+ sports)Robotics & STEM clubsCareer Technical Education
Alternative High SchoolGrades 9–12

Mesquite High School

Sierra Sands Unified School District

(760) 499-0900

Alternative high school for students who benefit from a non-traditional learning environment. Offers personalized support, credit recovery, and flexible scheduling.

Small class sizesCredit recovery programsIndividualized learning plansFlexible scheduling
Middle SchoolGrades 6–8

James Monroe Middle School

Sierra Sands Unified School District

(760) 499-0900

Middle school preparing students for high school success through strong core academics, elective programs, and extracurricular activities.

Core academics + electivesSports programsMusic and artsCollege prep foundation
Elementary SchoolGrades K–5

Pierce Elementary School

Sierra Sands Unified School District

Well-regarded elementary school focused on foundational academics, positive school culture, and community involvement.

STEAM activitiesAfter-school programsCommunity gardenParent-teacher engagement
Elementary SchoolGrades K–5

Richmond Elementary School

Sierra Sands Unified School District

Elementary school serving Ridgecrest's east side with strong community involvement and dedicated teachers.

Reading enrichment programsArts integrationActive PTA
Elementary SchoolGrades K–5

Faller Elementary School

Sierra Sands Unified School District

Elementary school known for dedicated staff and a nurturing learning environment for young students.

Academic support programsPhysical education emphasisTitle I support services
Elementary SchoolGrades K–8

Inyokern Elementary School

Sierra Sands Unified School District

Small K-8 school in nearby Inyokern (10 min from Ridgecrest) offering a close-knit community atmosphere and personalized education through 8th grade.

K-8 combined campusSmall class sizesStrong community bonds

Private Schools

Private School · Grades K–12

Desert Christian School

Private Christian school offering faith-based education from kindergarten through 12th grade with a focus on academic excellence and character development.

Faith-based curriculumK-12 on one campusSmall class sizesCharacter and values emphasis
Private School · Grades K–8

St. Ann's Catholic School

Catholic elementary school providing a rigorous academic program integrated with Catholic values and community service.

Catholic faith formationK-8 programCommunity service focusAfter-school care

School Resources & Links

Sierra Sands USD
Official school district website
Cerro Coso Community College
Two-year degrees and transfer programs
California Dept of Education
CA school data, report cards, and resources

Moving to Ridgecrest with kids? Read our relocation guide.

Moving Guide