Don’t just take our word for it.
Families and independent reviewers consistently rank Del Mar Pines among the very best elementary schools in San Diego.
Recognized for rigor and backed by results.
Niche awarded Del Mar Pines an A+ in its 2025 Best Schools rankings, placing it among the top 2.5% of schools nationally. On the CTP-5 standardized assessments, DMP students in grades 3–6 score significantly above both national and independent-school norms, and the school has been WASC-accredited since 2007.
Top marks, everywhere parents look.
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Teachers who know every child
“The teachers at DMP are extraordinary. They truly care about the kids and foster an environment not only for learning but also for developing great people. Marci is the only principal I am aware of who knows each of the students at the school, on an individual basis.”
This is a phenomenal school, and is the most child-driven, child-centered program we have ever experienced. The directors and the teachers put an extraordinary amount of energy into figuring out what makes each individual student tick.”
— Del Mar Pines ParentMy child has had an amazing instruction at Del Mar Pines. He is a full grade level ahead in reading and writing, and two grade levels ahead in math. Del Mar Pines is the most successful school I have ever seen at individualizing instruction.”
— Del Mar Pines ParentChallenged, never stressed
“What differentiates Del Mar Pines from other schools is a program that challenges each child to their individual potential without adding layers of unnecessary stress and pressure. It is a school that focuses on developing academically strong, well rounded, well-adjusted and happy children.”
They truly love going to school every day and never complain about homework. They are thriving because of the individualized attention they get from amazing teachers and staff and the well rounded curriculum.”
— Del Mar Pines ParentMy husband and I loved the fact that our son was so happy at school. He was challenged academically in a very nurturing environment. The teachers are extremely helpful and ready to answer every child’s need.”
— Del Mar Pines ParentWorth the Switch
“We can barely get our kids to leave at the end of the day and the first thing they do when they get home is work on their homework excitedly. Our 2nd grader has asked us why we didn’t make the change sooner. For other parents weighing public vs private I can tell you that we regard this as one of the best decisions we have ever made.”
Our daughter recently completed the 6th Grade at Del Mar Pines. She transferred from another school and started in the 3rd Grade. I only wish we had known of this school earlier as we would have had her attend from kindergarten. She loved (loves) this school.”
— Del Mar Pines ParentWe transferred to DMP School because of dissatisfaction with our local public school. During the remaining semester at DMP, we saw an immediate change in our child from a previously apathetic second grader to a thriving student.”
— Del Mar Pines Parent
Ready for what’s next
“Having my children attend 6th grade at Del Mar Pines School benefited them tremendously. They effortlessly transitioned into middle school and high school with excellent study habits, strong character and solid understanding of who they are.”
My daughter graduated from DMP two years ago and is currently attending another top private school in the area. She was incredibly well prepared for middle school both academically and socially. She has been in all the honors/accelerated classes.”
— Del Mar Pines Parent
DMP is a very special school where children develop a lifelong love of learning and leave 6th grade with study skills and independent work habits that will serve them well for the rest of their lives.”
— Del Mar Pines ParentA real community
“The sense of community is second to none. Children feel safe and nurtured which allows them to focus on learning and truly want to go to school every day.”
Both the girls and the boys are the nicest, most well-mannered students my family has ever encountered in a school setting. I take my hat off and give a standing ovation to the teachers and to the director.”
— Del Mar Pines ParentMy daughter always felt cared for and protected at Del Mar Pines School. She learned core values of friendship, respect, good character, moral integrity. We will never forget our time at Del Mar Pines.”
— Del Mar Pines Parent
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