Gardena, California, provides families with a strong network of educational opportunities, ranging from public schools within the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) to nearby private schools, charter programs, and colleges and universities across the South Bay and greater Los Angeles area.
K–12 Schools
Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) – Gardena Area – Gardena is served by LAUSD, which operates a variety of elementary, middle, and high schools in the community. The district emphasizes academic achievement, STEM initiatives, arts, athletics, and college readiness.
Gardena High School – The city’s flagship public high school, Gardena High offers Advanced Placement courses, career and technical pathways, athletics, and visual and performing arts programs.
Peary Middle School & 186th Street Elementary School – Local neighborhood schools that provide strong academic foundations, student-centered learning environments, and community support. Specialized programs such as dual-language immersion, STEM-focused curricula, and magnet opportunities are also available.
Private & Charter Schools
Junipero Serra High School – A private Catholic high school offering college preparatory academics, competitive athletics, and faith-based education for students in grades 9–12.
Gardena Valley Christian School – Serving preschool through grade 8, this private school emphasizes academics, character development, and leadership within a Christian-based learning environment.
Higher Education
El Camino College – Located nearby in Torrance, El Camino provides associate degrees, vocational training, and transfer programs to four-year universities, serving as a key resource for Gardena students.
California State University, Dominguez Hills (CSUDH) – Just minutes from Gardena, CSUDH offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs in business, health sciences, education, arts, and technology, with strong ties to regional industries.
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) & University of Southern California (USC) – Within commuting distance, these world-class research universities expand opportunities for advanced study, professional development, and innovation.
Together, these schools, colleges, and universities ensure that Gardena families have access to high-quality education from preschool through higher education, fostering lifelong learning, personal growth, and pathways to career success.
Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD)
Gardena High School
El Camino College
CSU Dominguez Hills