Best 96161 California Public Middle Schools (2026)

For the 2026 school year, there are 3 public middle schools serving 762 students in 96161, CA.
The top-ranked public middle schools in 96161, CA are Sierra Expeditionary Learning and Alder Creek Middle School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Public middle schools in zipcode 96161 have an average math proficiency score of 48% (versus the California public middle school average of 32%), and reading proficiency score of 58% (versus the 46% statewide average). Middle schools in 96161, CA have an average ranking of 9/10, which is in the top 20% of California public middle schools.
Minority enrollment is 38% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the California public middle school average of 78% (majority Hispanic).

Best 96161, CA Public Middle Schools (2026)

School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Sierra Expeditionary Learning
Charter School
(Math: 55-59% | Reading: 65-69%)
Rank:
9/
10
Top 20%
11603 Donner Pass Rd.
Truckee, CA 96161
(530) 582-3701
Gr: K-8 | 216 students Student-teacher ratio: 22:1 Minority enrollment: 40%
Rank: #22.
Alder Creek Middle School
(Math: 46% | Reading: 56%)
Rank:
8/
10
Top 30%
10931 Alder Dr.
Truckee, CA 96161
(530) 582-2750
Gr: 6-8 | 535 students Student-teacher ratio: 19:1 Minority enrollment: 36%
Rank: n/an/a
Cold Stream Alternative
Alternative School
8000 Estates Dr.
Truckee, CA 96161
(530) 582-2640
Gr: K-12 | 11 students Student-teacher ratio: 2:1 Minority enrollment: 45%

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-ranked public middle schools in 96161, CA?
The top-ranked public middle schools in 96161, CA include Sierra Expeditionary Learning and Alder Creek Middle School.
How many public middle schools are located in 96161?
3 public middle schools are located in 96161.
What is the racial composition of students in 96161?
96161 public middle schools minority enrollment is 38% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the California public middle schools average of 78% (majority Hispanic).

Recent Articles

What Rising E-Bike and Traffic Concerns Mean for School Commutes
What Rising E-Bike and Traffic Concerns Mean for School Commutes
Discover how rising e-bike use and increasing traffic are changing school commutes, and what parents should evaluate before choosing a public school.
School Safety Beyond Lockdowns: What Parents Should Review
School Safety Beyond Lockdowns: What Parents Should Review
Learn how to evaluate a public school's safety beyond lockdown drills, including school climate, emergency planning, mental health support, and communication.
How to Judge Special Education Capacity Before You Enroll
How to Judge Special Education Capacity Before You Enroll
Learn how to evaluate a public school's special education capacity before enrolling your child, from staffing and IEP implementation to inclusion and support services.

Quick Links