Gilroy Prep (a Navigator School)

Gilroy Prep is a public charter school in Hollister that serves students in grades K–8. It is part of the Navigator School network. The school has about 400 to 450 students and a student-to-teacher ratio of about 20:1. This helps with structured lessons and giving each student individual attention. Gilroy Prep is part of the Navigator Schools network and follows a college-preparatory model that puts a lot of emphasis on reading, writing, and math, as well as extra learning time. The student body is diverse, with a lot of Hispanic students and students from other ethnic groups as well. Many of the students are thought to be economically disadvantaged. According to data, about 50% of students are good at math and about 68% are good at English language arts, which is better than most district and state averages. The amount of money spent per student is in line with what is normal for California charter schools. Gilroy Prep (a Navigator School) is located in a growing residential area where home prices are lower than in other parts of the Bay Area.

Gilroy Prep, a Navigator School, recently made headlines in statewide rankings. It was ranked first in the 2026 U.S. News & World Report Best Elementary and Middle Schools lists, showing that charter schools in California do very well in school.

Q1: How can families get their kids into Gilroy Prep, which is a Navigator School?

Ans. During the open enrollment period, families must fill out an application to enroll. If there are more applications than seats, the school has to hold a public lottery, as required by California charter school rules.

Q2. Do students at Gilroy Prep have to wear the same clothes every day?

Ans. Yes, the school usually has a dress code so that everyone can focus on their studies and the school can keep its identity.

Q3. Are there programs that last more than a day or that help kids learn more?

Ans. Gilroy Prep usually gives students extra time to learn, which can include structured academic help, tutoring, or activities after school.

Q4. Does the school help students who need more help?

Ans. Yes, Gilroy Prep is a public charter school that follows state and federal rules for special education services and individualized support plans.

Q5. What does the school do to let parents know how their child is doing in school?

Ans. Parents get regular progress reports, report cards, and access to online portals. They also have planned meetings between parents and teachers during the school year.