Named for James Ross, a settler who made his fortune during the Gold Rush, Ross retains a distinct small town charm. Although it has a population just over 2,000 people, more than 40 percent of households have children. And no wonder: Ross’ schools have twice been recognized for excellence by the state of California. In 1991 Child magazine ranked Ross middle school as one of the top ten schools in America! It also lies a convenient 18 miles from San Francisco, putting all the advantages of the city within easy reach.