The city of Irvine provides an exceptional quality of life, with beautiful homes and apartment communities, abundant outdoor recreation and outstanding educational opportunities. Not only is it consistently recognized as America’s safest big city, Irvine also boasts an excellent public school system frequently recognized among the top in California. Nearby Tustin is also home to many top elementary, middle and high schools.
Recently, eight schools in Irvine and Tustin were recognized as 2026 California Distinguished Schools by State Superintendent Tony Thurmond. Established in 1985, the Distinguished Schools Program selects schools based on two categories: their ability to close the achievement gap and their exceptional student performance. Elementary schools, middle schools and high schools are recognized in alternating years. Here are the Irvine and Tustin winners for 2026:
- Irvine High School, Irvine Unified School District
- Lakeside Middle School, Irvine Unified School District
- Rancho San Joaquin Middle School, Irvine Unified School District
- Sierra Vista Middle School, Irvine Unified School District
- South Lake Middle School, Irvine Unified School District
- Venado Middle School, Irvine Unified School District
- Woodbridge High School, Irvine Unified School District
- Hewes Middle School, Tustin Unified School District
Apartment Communities Near Irvine High School:
Cypress Village
Avella
Santa Clara
Santa Rosa
Santa Maria
Windwood Knoll
Windwood Glen
Apartment Communities Near Lakeside Middle School:
Brittany
Shadow Oaks
Sonoma
Oak Glen
Apartment Communities Near Rancho San Joaquin Middle School:
Rancho San Joaquin
Park West
Stanford Court
Harvard & Cornell Court
Apartment Communities Near Sierra Vista Middle School:
Northwood Park
Northwood Place
Mirasol
Palmeras
Orchard Hills
Apartment Communities Near South Lake Middle School:
Woodbridge Pines Apartment Homes
San Carlo Villa Apartment Homes
Apartment Communities Near Venado Middle School:
Deerfield Apartment Homes
Apartment Communities Near Woodbridge High School:
Woodbridge Pines
Woodbridge Villas
Woodbridge Willows
Cedar Creek
Cross Creek
Apartment Communities Near Hewes Middle School:
Rancho Monterey
Rancho Santa Fe
Rancho Mariposa
Rancho Tierra
Students in the Irvine and Tustin Unified School Districts have access to advanced curricula, experienced teachers and enriching activities. By developing innovative programs and keeping up with the latest technology, these districts continuously evolve their approach to education. Explore all of our communities in Irvine and Tustin to find your next home.
