Surprise Valley Joint Unified

Nestled at 470 Lincoln Street in Cedarville, California, Surprise Valley Joint Unified School District is an active, traditional public school district serving a remote, rural community in northeastern California. Operating two schools, the non-charter district delivers a complete educational pathway spanning kindergarten through 12th grade. Its isolated geographic setting creates a closely-knit educational environment where traditional public school values meet personalized community support, making it an essential academic center for local families and a compelling subject for rural education researchers.

The district supports a tightly focused student body of 89 total students, comprising 48 female and 41 male learners. The vibrant student population reflects the local community's demographic tapestry, including White (48), Hispanic (21), American Indian (11), and multiracial (9) students. Educational and operational needs are met by a dedicated workforce totaling nearly 36 full-time equivalent staff members, featuring roughly 16 full-time teachers, over 4 instructional aides, and nearly 16 support personnel. This generous staffing profile yields an exceptionally low student-to-teacher ratio, allowing for tailored instruction, individualized academic support, and a supportive learning atmosphere across all grade levels.