Welcome to PUSD

The Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD) prepares students for success in a fast-changing world with a commitment to academic excellence and cultural responsiveness in welcoming and supportive environments that prioritize their well-being. We foster critical thinkers, creative problem solvers, and collaborative communicators with a heart for their communities. 

The student body of more than 14,000 in PreK-12 represents the diversity of the communities of Altadena, Pasadena, Sierra Madre, and beyond. PUSD also serves adult learners. PUSD graduates go on to college or university in California, the U.S., and around the world.  

The Pasadena Unified community is committed to transforming education to empower students to succeed. From our talented faculty and staff to the partnership of our parents/caregivers, alumni, and community partners, we are committed to welcoming and including every learner.

• Dual Language programs equip students to master English and a target language (Spanish, Mandarin, French, and Armenian). 

• Magnet schools offer a thematic focus on the Arts, STEM, world language, and college/career preparatory programs at seven unique locations throughout the district. 

• College & Career Academies focused on nine industry sectors prepare students to be successful in both college and careers 

• Arts education connects with Pasadena’s renowned arts community to enhance visual art, music, theater, and dance, including a new middle school arts conservatory. Students have multiple performance opportunities at schools and at community events.

• International Baccalaureate from TK-12th grade challenges young people to build a better world through intercultural awareness, understanding, and respect.

• Dual and Concurrent Enrollment programs propell students to earn college credits while in high school.

• Math Academy accelerates the learning curve of mathematically gifted students by providing a curriculum that matches their abilities. 

• Special Education programs adapt content, teaching methodology, and delivery of instruction to meet the individual needs of each child.

• A focus on student wellness supports students’ social, emotional, physical, and mental well-being. 

• Athletics – Student-athletes participate in more than two dozen sports at PUSD high schools. PUSD teams have won CIF divisional championship titles. ​​Every elementary school has a dedicated PE teacher. New sports facilities include synthetic tracks, tennis courts, pool decks, and other upgrades. 

To learn more, we invite you to visit our schools. School Tour Schedule

• Early Childhood Education

• Elementary Education (TK-5)

• Secondary Education (6-12th grade)

PUSD graduates are earning admission to competitive colleges and universities locally, nationally and internationally. 

PUSD is a district of choice which means that families may select their neighborhood school or apply to a different campus that offers a specialized program. If you live outside of PUSD, you may apply via the PUSD’s Open Enrollment process.

• Established in 1874 and unified in 1961

• 3 communities – Pasadena, Altadena, Sierra Madre

• 23 schools total

  • 13 elementary schools (grades K-5)

  • 1  K-8 school

  • 3  middle schools (grades 6-8) 

  • 2  secondary schools (grades 6 - 12)

  • 2  high schools (grades 9-12)

  • 1  continuation high school 

  • 1  alternative education program
    PUSD also operates 

• Early Childhood Education Centers

• Transitional Kindergarten

• Twilight Adult Education

• Adult Living Skills Center