About MCSD
The Merced City School District (MCSD) rests in the Central San Joaquin Valley, the most productive agricultural area in the world. Located near the heart of the state, Merced is within a two-hour drive of Yosemite National Park with its spectacular waterfalls and miles of hiking trails. It is also just two hours by car to the Pacific Ocean beaches and the lovely seaside communities of Monterey and Carmel.
MCSD is proud to serve our diverse community. Over 1400 dedicated classified and certificated staff serve approximately 11,400 students in preschool through eighth grade. We have four middle schools, 14 elementary schools, and a highly-rated state preschool program at 13 of our sites. The District is also committed to the highest quality instructional program for all children. Parents, staff members, and other community partners are involved in shaping the District’s goals and actions in multiple ways, including through the Local Control Accountability Plan process.
Merced, which has more than 80,000 residents, is known for its wide tree-lined streets, open spaces, 29 tree-shaded parks, and 12 miles of class-one bike paths. The Courthouse Museum and nearby Castle Air Museum are some of the many attractions enjoyed by residents and visitors alike.
Several major colleges and universities are located in close proximity to the District, including UC Merced, Merced College, California State University, Fresno, and California State University, Stanislaus. MCSD works collaboratively with our local educational partners to support every individual scholar and ensure their success, from preschool to college and career.