Educational quality and commitment to learning are important indicators of a strong community. From Medford Pubic Schools to Southern Oregon University, the Rogue Valley prepares students for success.

Residents of Bella Vista Heights attend Lone Pine Elementary for grades K-6. The Oregon Department of Education has given Lone Pine “Exceptional” and “Strong” ratings in all categories for the past five years in its School State Report Card.

7th and 8th grade students attend Hedrick Jr. High School. The 955-student campus offers excellent academic and athletic opportunities for middle school aged children.

Medford high schools are among eight Oregon school districts selected to participate in the Oregon Small Schools Initiative, funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and the Meyer Memorial Trust. The grant provides funding to transform Medford’s two large high schools into 10 smaller “schools,” enabling staff to develop best teaching practices and educational opportunities to benefit both current and future students. By Fall 2007, all schools will be in operation.

Rogue Community College serves Southern Oregon residents at campuses in Medford, Grants Pass and White City. The public college offers associate degrees and certificates in fields such as business, computers, medical and manufacturing.

Southern Oregon University in Ashland offers 100 areas of study specializing in liberal arts, sciences and select graduate and professional programs. The 175-acre campus is home to 5,500 students from around the world and was recently named by the New York Times as a “hidden gem” among 4-year colleges in the United States.