San Marcos, CA — October 7, 2025 — San Marcos Unified School District (SMUSD) has received high honors in the newly released 2026 Best School Districts in America rankings from Niche, earning an A grade and securing a spot in the Top 5 school districts in the San Diego area.

Niche, a nationally recognized education ranking service, evaluates school districts across the country based on a wide range of factors, including academic performance, teacher quality, college readiness, extracurricular offerings, and feedback from students and families.

“This recognition is a reflection of the collective dedication of our students, staff, families, and community,” said Superintendent Dr. Andy Johnsen. “We are proud of the learning environment we’ve created in SMUSD—one that prioritizes academic excellence, innovation, and the well-being of every student.”

The district serves nearly 19,000 students across 19 schools in North County San Diego. Over the past several years, the district has focused on preparing students to be “Future Ready” through expanded career technical education pathways, innovative instructional practices, and a commitment to engaging and supportive learning environments.

Governing Board President Sarah Ahmad added, “Our A grade ranking is a testament to the hard work and passion of our educators and staff. It also reflects the strong partnership we share with families and the community. Together, we are making a lasting impact on the lives of our students.”

San Marcos Unified joins a select group of top-performing districts in San Diego County recognized by Niche for their excellence in education. For more information on the 2026 Best School Districts in America rankings, visit the Niche website.

Media Contact: Christine Lee, christine.lee@smusd.org