One of the Best Private Elementary Schools in San Diego
For over 45 years, Del Mar Pines School has focused on building character and inspiring excellence in our students. We develop the foundational, academic, social and critical thinking skills that instill confidence and prepare our students for future success.
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What Makes Del Mar Pines School Special?
Since 1978, Del Mar Pines has nurtured all aspects of our students' academic, social, emotional, and physical needs. Recognized for a low student-to-teacher ratio, with two teachers in every classroom, our robust curriculum is enhanced by weekly ancillary classes in music, art, Spanish, hands-on science, PE, technology, and library. DMP students benefit from strong academics with small group instruction. Del Mar Pines School provides our students with a safe and caring atmosphere that emphasizes character development.
Parent Testimonials
My 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. I just can’t say enough how happy I am I put my child at Del Mar Pines. It has made a world of difference!
Some reasons why Del Mar Pines is such a special place: (1) Kids are separated in groups by ability and then each of these groups works at a level that challenges them. (2) The school is completely child centered. (3) Marci McCord, Head of School, does a fantastic job balancing actively listening to the parents and at the same time being very practical and pragmatic about issues/solutions. Del Mar Pines is a gem.
Why Choose Del Mar Pines School?
Del Mar Pines School is a very special place. This private elementary school is small, yet offers big benefits to its community.
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Caring Teachers & Staff
Build personal connections and lasting relationships.
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Small Group Instruction
Promotes low stress, yet effective learning in Math and Language Arts.
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Supporting the Whole Child
Values the academic, physical, social and emotional health of all students.
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Exceptional Ancillary Classes
Align with the curriculum in a fun and well rounded way. We offer weekly instruction in Science, Fine Art, Physical Education, Spanish, Music and Performing Arts, Technology and Library.
Recognized Among the Top 2.5% of Schools in the Country by Niche
Niche gave Del Mar Pines School an A+ Grade in The 2025 Best Schools Rankings. Schools with an A+ grade are among the top 2.5% of schools in the country.
Fully Accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges since 2007.
Prepare Your Child for Success
At Del Mar Pines School, your child will benefit from a strong academic foundation rooted in a safe and caring atmosphere that emphasizes character development. A Del Mar Pines School education nurtures all aspects of our student's academic, social, emotional and physical needs.
Explore DMP
We Make Learning Fun
News & Updates
- The Value of Homework
January 13, 2026
- Fully Accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Since 2007
December 10, 2025
- Math is Fun at Pumpkin Prediction Day
November 4, 2025
- Small Group Instruction Improves Learning at Del Mar Pines School
October 17, 2025
