Best Elementary Schools Near Cornelius Oregon
Learn about Best Elementary Schools Near Cornelius Oregon
If you’re looking for the Best Elementary Schools Near Cornelius Oregon, you probably want quick, practical answers. This guide highlights neighborhood schools in Cornelius and strong nearby options in Forest Grove and Hillsboro, plus what to expect and how to choose. You’ll learn distances, programs, and local tips to make the decision easier.
Quick Answer
Most Cornelius families attend Forest Grove School District. Top neighborhood picks are Echo Shaw Elementary and Cornelius Elementary. Nearby strong choices include Fern Hill and Joseph Gale (Forest Grove), Free Orchards (Hillsboro), and the charter Forest Grove Community School (K–8). Visit, check boundaries, and ask about dual-language, special programs, and before/after-care.
What Best Elementary Schools Near Cornelius Oregon Means
“Best” often means different things for each family. Around Cornelius, it usually includes:
- Short commute and safe routes.
- Strong reading and math support.
- Spanish–English dual language options.
- Arts, STEM, and special education services.
- Warm school culture and family engagement.
Most of Cornelius is zoned to the Forest Grove School District (FGSD), with a few nearby Hillsboro schools just a short drive east. Boundaries and offerings can change—always verify with the district.
Best Elementary Schools Near Cornelius Oregon: Our Shortlist
In or very near Cornelius (approximate drive times are from downtown Cornelius along TV Highway/Adair):
Echo Shaw Elementary (FGSD) — 2–5 minutes
- Known locally for a welcoming, community vibe.
- Offers Spanish–English dual-language programming (confirm placement and grade availability).
- Close to Cornelius City Library and Harleman Park.
Cornelius Elementary (FGSD) — 3–6 minutes
- Neighborhood school serving central and south Cornelius.
- Strong family engagement; Title I supports.
- Easy access via Baseline/TV Highway.
Nearby Forest Grove options (5–10 minutes west on Highway 8):
- Fern Hill Elementary (FGSD)
- Joseph Gale Elementary (FGSD)
- Harvey Clarke Elementary (FGSD)
- Dilley Elementary (FGSD; a bit farther south, more rural feel)
Hillsboro options (8–15 minutes east toward Orenco/NW Hillsboro):
- Free Orchards Elementary (Hillsboro SD)
- Orenco Elementary (Hillsboro SD)
- Imlay, Ladd Acres, and Mooberry (Hillsboro SD; check boundaries and commute)
Public charter option:
- Forest Grove Community School (K–8, downtown Forest Grove) — 8–10 minutes
- Project-based learning; lottery admission with district priorities.
Private/faith-based nearby:
- St. Anthony Catholic School (K–8, Forest Grove) — 8 minutes
- Visitation School (K–8, Verboort) — 12–15 minutes north among farms and hazelnut orchards
Tip: Many schools in FGSD and HSD offer Spanish–English dual-language strands. Ask early about openings and how placement works.
Why People Search for This in Cornelius, Oregon
- Families moving for Intel/Nike or local wineries want short commutes and stable programs.
- Cornelius sits between Hillsboro (5–10 minutes) and Forest Grove (5 minutes), so you get multiple school options within a small radius.
- Spanish-speaking families often look for dual-language programs—Cornelius/Forest Grove has well-established options.
What to Expect
- Grade spans: Most FGSD elementaries serve K–4, with grades 5–6 at Tom McCall Upper Elementary in Forest Grove.
- Busing: Provided within district rules; walk zones apply for nearby neighborhoods.
- Traffic: Pick-up lines along Baseline/TV Highway (OR-8) can back up; side-street arrivals help.
- Calendar: Late August/early September start. Occasional winter delays for ice; roads toward Gales Creek and the hills can be slick.
- Community: School events often tie into local spots like Cornelius City Library, Rogers Park, and Forest Grove’s Main Street.
Tips for Visitors / Residents
- Verify boundaries first: Use FGSD or Hillsboro SD address look-up tools.
- Tour the campus: Meet the principal, see classrooms, ask about reading support, special education, and enrichment.
- Ask about dual-language: Waitlists happen; earlier is better.
- Before/after-care: On-site or nearby providers (e.g., Champions, YMCA, local centers) vary by school—reserve early.
- Commute check: Try your route at actual drop-off/pick-up times; TV Highway can be slow at rush hours.
- Consider the next step: If you prefer K–5 continuity, ask how transitions to Tom McCall (5–6) are supported in FGSD.
Frequently Asked Questions About Best Elementary Schools Near Cornelius Oregon
How far is Cornelius from Portland?
- About 25 miles west. Expect 35–55 minutes by car, longer in peak traffic.
Is the area kid friendly?
- Yes. Cornelius and nearby Forest Grove have family parks, libraries, youth sports, and community events year-round.
Are there Spanish–English dual-language programs?
- Yes, several nearby elementaries offer dual-language strands. Availability varies—ask the school about placement and entry grades.
Is parking available during school pick-up?
- Yes, but lots fill fast. Arrive early or use designated side-street parking and crosswalks. Follow posted school zone speeds on Baseline/TV Highway.
When should I apply for a charter like Forest Grove Community School?
- Lottery deadlines are typically late winter to spring. Check the school’s website for current dates and priorities.
Summary
If you’re choosing elementary schools near Cornelius, start with Echo Shaw and Cornelius Elementary for neighborhood convenience, and consider nearby Forest Grove and Hillsboro schools for additional programs, including dual-language. Tour, verify boundaries, and plan your commute. The good news: excellent options are all within a 5–15 minute drive.
Related Guides
- Moving to Cornelius: Neighborhoods, Commutes, and Cost of Living
- Forest Grove vs. Hillsboro: Which Nearby Town Fits Your Family?
- Kid-Friendly Things To Do Near Cornelius (Parks, Libraries, Hagg Lake)
- How School Boundaries Work in Washington County (FGSD and HSD)