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Sierra Sands Unified School District

Kern County13 Schools~4,484 Students Enrolled

Explore Our Schools

PublicGrades: 7-8

China Lake Junior High School

Ridgecrest

643

PublicGrades: K-6

Faller Elementary School

Ridgecrest

516

PublicGrades: K-6

Gateway Elementary School

Ridgecrest

346

PublicGrades: 7-12

High Desert School

Ridgecrest

0
PublicGrades: K-6

Inyokern Elementary School

Inyokern

161

PublicGrades: K-6

Las Flores Elementary School

Ridgecrest

526

PublicGrades: 9-12

Mesquite Continuation High School

Ridgecrest

95

PublicCharterGrades: 7-12

Opportunities for Learning - Ridgecrest School

Ridgecrest

0
PublicGrades: K-6

Pierce Academy of the Arts

Ridgecrest

297

PublicGrades: K-6

Richmond Elementary School

Ridgecrest

364

PublicGrades: 9-12

Sherman E. Burroughs High School

Ridgecrest

1536

PublicGrades: P

Sierra Vista Education Center

Ridgecrest

0
PublicGrades: K-8

Vieweg STEM Academy

Ridgecrest

0

Academic Calendar

Holidays & Events2026-2027
  • Jul03

    Independence Day Observed

    Jul 3, 2026

  • Aug06

    First Day of School

    Aug 6, 2026

  • Sep07

    Labor Day Holiday

    Sep 7, 2026

  • Oct02

    End of 1st Quarter

    Oct 2, 2026

  • Oct12

    Columbus Day Observed

    Oct 12, 2026

  • Nov06

    End of 1st Trimester

    Nov 6, 2026

  • Nov11

    Veterans Day Holiday

    Nov 11, 2026

  • Nov16

    Minimum Day Schedule for Parent-Teacher Conferences

    Nov 16, 2026 - Nov 20, 2026

  • Nov23

    Non-School Days Before Thanksgiving

    Nov 23, 2026 - Nov 25, 2026

  • Nov26

    Thanksgiving Holiday Break

    Nov 26, 2026 - Nov 27, 2026

  • Dec18

    End of 1st Semester

    Dec 18, 2026

  • Dec16

    Minimum Day Schedule Before Winter Recess

    Dec 16, 2026 - Dec 18, 2026

  • Dec21

    Winter Recess

    Dec 21, 2026 - Dec 31, 2026

  • Dec24

    Classified Holidays

    Dec 24, 2026 - Dec 25, 2026

  • Jan01

    New Year's Day Observed

    Jan 1, 2027

  • Jan04

    Winter Recess Continued

    Jan 4, 2027 - Jan 6, 2027

  • Jan18

    Martin Luther King Jr Birthday Holiday

    Jan 18, 2027

  • Feb12

    Lincoln's Birthday Observed

    Feb 12, 2027

  • Feb15

    Washington's Birthday Holiday

    Feb 15, 2027

  • Feb19

    End of 2nd Trimester

    Feb 19, 2027

  • Mar19

    End of 3rd Quarter

    Mar 19, 2027

  • Mar26

    In Lieu of Admission Day

    Mar 26, 2027

  • Mar29

    Spring Break

    Mar 29, 2027 - Mar 31, 2027

  • Apr01

    Spring Break Continued

    Apr 1, 2027 - Apr 2, 2027

  • May27

    Last Day of Instruction

    May 27, 2027

  • May31

    Memorial Day Holiday

    May 31, 2027

  • Jun18

    Juneteenth Holiday Observed

    Jun 18, 2027

Area & Neighborhood Coverage

Sierra Sands Unified School District proudly serves the eastern reaches of Kern County, California, primarily encompassing the vibrant high desert communities of Ridgecrest and Inyokern. This distinctive geographic footprint extends to families residing in areas closely associated with the China Lake Naval Air Weapons Station, a significant local presence. Situated in the Indian Wells Valley, the district's service area offers a unique landscape, characterized by its arid beauty, towering mountains, and clear skies, setting it apart from the agricultural heartland found in other parts of Kern County.

Community Ties in the High Desert

The Sierra Sands Unified School District is deeply interwoven with the fabric of its high desert home, fostering strong connections within the Ridgecrest and Inyokern areas. The presence of the China Lake Naval Air Weapons Station significantly shapes the local community, bringing a diverse population and a unique dynamic to the district's daily life. The district prides itself on being a central pillar, participating in local events and contributing to the vibrant, close-knit atmosphere characteristic of this part of Kern County, ensuring a supportive environment for all families.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Sierra Sands Unified School District's location unique within Kern County?

The Sierra Sands Unified School District is situated in the Indian Wells Valley, a distinctive high desert environment in eastern Kern County. Unlike the agricultural landscapes found further west in the county, this area is characterized by its dramatic desert scenery, proximity to the Sierra Nevada foothills, and the significant presence of the China Lake Naval Air Weapons Station, creating a unique blend of natural beauty and a vibrant military-affiliated community.

How does the Sierra Sands Unified School District engage with the Ridgecrest community?

The district maintains strong ties with the Ridgecrest community through various local initiatives and partnerships. It actively participates in community events, collaborates with local organizations, and benefits from the strong civic engagement prevalent in a town where many residents are connected to the Naval Air Weapons Station. This interconnectedness helps foster a supportive and involved environment for all families in the area.

Are there local recreational opportunities near the Sierra Sands Unified School District for families?

Absolutely! The high desert region surrounding the Sierra Sands Unified School District offers abundant outdoor recreational opportunities. Families can explore nearby natural attractions like Fossil Falls, Red Rock Canyon State Park, and the vast expanses of the Mojave Desert for hiking, rockhounding, and stargazing. The city of Ridgecrest also provides local parks and community facilities for various activities.