Author Archives: the local dish

San Clemente Christian School

San Clemente Christian School

San Clemente Christian School

Join The Legacy

For more than 40 years, San Clemente Christian School has been committed to Christ-centered excellence. At the core of who we are is our mission: to provide a purposeful education shaped by a biblical worldview, where students come to know Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior, grow in Christlike character, and pursue academic excellence. This mission drives every lesson, every interaction, and every decision at SCCS.

Our staff intentionally weaves God’s Word into each subject while discipling students to know, love, and serve Jesus. At the heart of our school are educators who embody Christlike character and demonstrate His love through meaningful relationships, encouragement, and a culture of grace. We aim not only for our students to know Scripture, but to also lead with love and learn to view the world through the lens of God’s truth.

With intentionally small class sizes, our credentialed teachers truly get to know each student. They provide personalized instruction, targeted support, and meaningful enrichment to every student at every level. This personalized approach helps each student build on their strengths and grow in academic confidence. By combining academic excellence with a biblical worldview, we guide students to grow in wisdom and live out their faith with purpose.

At SCCS, we don’t simply enroll students; we enroll families. Community is central to who we are. We desire every parent to feel known, connected, and welcomed as part of the SCCS family; because here, parents get a head seat at the table. From weekly chapels and parent fellowship groups, to class activities, special events, volunteer opportunities, and service trips, we intentionally cultivate a school culture where relationships are prioritized. Whether serving as a center leader, guest reader, event volunteer, or classroom helper, parents play a valued role in the growth of every student.

Conveniently located less than ten minutes from Talega, Rancho Mission Viejo, San Juan Capistrano, Dana Point, and Capistrano Beach, San Clemente Christian School is easily accessible for families across South Orange County.

Enrollment is now open for new students. To learn more, visit SanClementeChristianSchool.com  or contact our office to schedule a tour and interview.

Join the legacy — built on faith, strengthened through community, and preparing students for a lifetime of purpose.

 

San Clemente Christian School
1020 Calle Recodo, San Clemente
949.496.3513
SanClementeChristianSchool.com

The Togethership

The Togethership
ELEVATING THE STUDENT-ATHLETE EXPERIENCE

The Togethership

The Togethership is fundamentally redefining the journey of the youth student-athlete. Its model brings rigorous academics and evidence-based performance training together without the pressure of tryouts, club rankings, or tournament outcomes. By removing these barriers, the program focuses fully on the individual development of every student.

The approach extends far beyond physical performance. While it certainly helps athletes become stronger, faster, and more capable, the deeper purpose is character development. The Togethership instills the values of being Humble, Hungry, and Helpful, nurturing not only athletic ability but also self-confidence, resilience, and integrity.

At The Togethership, success isn’t measured by wins. It is measured by attitude, work ethic, and the daily pursuit of personal growth. When the typical environment of intense competition is replaced with a culture centered on genuine development, every student is empowered to shine in the classroom, on the field, and in life.

Students entering grades 6–8 benefit from small, dynamic classes and a deeply supportive environment where they build habits that lead to lifelong achievement. State-of-the-art performance training is integrated seamlessly, developing physical literacy and durability under expert guidance. The specialized High School Prep (HSP) year provides an additional launchpad for students who need focused time to build maturity, routines, and advanced life skills. Across all levels, intentional structure and individualized support cultivate accountability, self-advocacy, and confidence.

The Togethership also believes that accessing a transformative education should be simple and encouraging. Admissions for the 2026-2027 school year begin with a brief inquiry form, followed by the signature on-campus Shadow Day—an immersive experience that allows prospective students to engage with the community firsthand. Families meet the coaches and teachers to discuss goals and explore how the program can support their student-athlete’s journey.

The Togethership invites families to experience it for themselves. Interested parties can start the journey today and discover how the program is elevating what education and athletics can achieve together.

The Togethership
1010 Calle Sombra | San Clemente
949.259.8217TheTogethership.com

The Togethership

St. Edward The Confessor Parish School

St. Edward The Confessor Parish School
Over 40 Years of Academic Excellence

St. Edward The Confessor Parish School
A preschool through 8th grade educational experience within the Diocese of Orange. Our mission is to help our students grow spiritually, intellectually, socially and emotionally within a Christ-centered environment.

A DYNAMIC SCHOOLWIDELEARNING ENVIRONMENT

CHARACTER
The faculty and staff are dedicated to preparing students to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing world. We strive to develop resilient and confident students.

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
Consistent with Diocesan curriculum guidelines and Common Core Standards, we educate the whole child, forming their spiritual, intellectual, personal and social capacities, through academic, religious service and co-curricular programs.

FAITH DEVELOPMENT
Through a variety of opportunities, our students are being prepared to meet the spiritual and moral challenges of the future. Their Catholic values develop and strengthen through daily prayer, service projects and consistent practice of compassion, respect, and responsibility.

COMMUNITY
Faith and academics are at the core of the school, but the community is the hear. St. Edward builds a culture of family, where students, parents and staff support one another.

CREATIVITY
Thought Art, Music and Makerspace classes, our students are able to develop and explore their talents and imagination.

OPEN HOUSE
Sunday, January 25, 2026
9:45 AM – 12:00 PM

Schedule A Tour Today!

St. Edward The Confessor Parish School
33866 Calle La Primavera | Dana Point
949.496.1307StEdward.com

St. Edward The Confessor Parish School

St. Anne Catholic School

St. Anne Catholic School
ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT. SPIRITUAL FORMATION. CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT.

St. Anne Catholic School

Located less than two miles from the Pacific Ocean, St. Anne Catholic School is an independent Catholic school in Laguna Niguel, where dedicated teachers, administrators, and parents ensure that students are inspired to pursue their highest level of academic achievement, spiritual formation, and character development.

St. Anne students benefit from differentiated instruction, opportunities for collaboration, and strategies that stimulate critical thinking. Based on research and best practices, the classes maximize engagement and growth. The Student Support team ensures that all students can access the curriculum and enrichment opportunities that challenge them. Recognizing that learning is not limited to the classroom, St. Anne Catholic School incorporates experiential learning opportunities into its programming. From the preschool mud kitchen to middle school field study trips to Astrocamp, the Pali Institute Science Camp, Catalina Island, and Washington, D.C., students have access to activities that build real-world knowledge.

St. Anne Catholic School is committed to developing students’ academic skills, character, and unique talents. Art, music, technology, orchestra, rock band, and creative writing classes provide students with opportunities to explore their interests and reflect the School’s dedication to educating and celebrating the whole child.

Guided by the teachings of the Catholic Church, the vibrant Campus Ministry program encourages spiritual growth through participation in service projects, retreats, and weekly Masses. Additionally, extracurricular programs such as musical theater, after-school classes, and various team sports allow students to grow, connect, and have fun.

St. Anne Catholic School graduates well-rounded, creative, and compassionate students of character who are well-equipped for the challenges of high school, college, and beyond.

To schedule a private tour, please contact the Office of Admissions at 949.276.6700.

St. Anne Catholic School
32451 Bear Brand Road | Laguna Niguel
949.276.6700St-Anne.org

St. Anne Catholic School

Our Lady of Fatima Academy

Our Lady of Fatima Academy
EDUCATING SAN CLEMENTE AND THE SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES SINCE 1965

Our Lady of Fatima Academy

At Our Lady of Fatima Academy, students in grades TK-8, grow through creative learning, serve with heart, strive for academic excellence and live guided by faith.

THE ONLY TK – 8TH GRADE CATHOLIC SCHOOL IN SAN CLEMENTE. NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS!

13:1 Average Class Size. Catholic affiliation not required for admission. All are welcome to enroll.

Our Lady of Fatima Academy
105 N. La Esperanza | San Clemente
949.492.7320OLFschool.net

Our Lady of Fatima Academy

Las Olas Preschool

Las Olas Preschool
@ San Clemente Presbyterian Church

Las Olas Preschool

Las Olas Preschool is a nurturing, play-based Christian program designed to build character, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning. As a ministry of San Clemente Presbyterian Church, we offer exceptional care, early education, and a strong sense of community for every family we serve. We believe children learn best through hands-on play, meaningful relationships, and opportunities that support both academic growth and social-emotional development. Our goal is to lay the foundation not only for Kindergarten readiness, but for a Christ-centered life filled with curiosity, compassion, and joy. Serving children ages 24 months through their Transitional Kindergarten year, we partner closely with families to support each child’s unique needs and help guide their educational journey.

Our TK program provides enriching academic challenges and experiences, preparing children to confidently transition into the elementary school environment. With small class sizes, low student-to-teacher ratios, and curriculum shaped with input from leading Kindergarten teachers in our district, students receive personalized attention and build the essential skills they’ll use in Kindergarten and beyond. Enrollment opens for new families on Monday, February 9, 2026.

Las Olas Preschool
119 Avenida de la Estrella | San Clemente
949.218.7398LasOlas.school

Las Olas Preschool

Fairmont San Juan Capistrano

Fairmont San Juan Capistrano
Discover the Fairmont SJC Difference

Fairmont San Juan Capistrano

PRESCHOOL – 8TH GRADE
Fairmont San Juan Capistrano is a warm and vibrant learning community where students are happy and excited to learn. With small classes, exceptional teachers, and highly accessible administrators, we prepare confident, future-ready students through strong academics and whole-child development. Join us at our Open House and see what’s possible when every child is seen and supported.

Thursday, February 12, 2026
Prospective families @ 5 pm
Current families @ 6 pm
RSVP Today!
From strength and conditioning to sport-specific training and top-tier academics, Fairmont SJC’s Athletic Academy offers elite-level athletic training within the regular school day. Explore the program that prepares the kind of student-athletes that high school coaches want on their rosters. Book a shadow day today and experience a day in the life of our Academy students.

Schedule a Schedule Shadow Day Today!

Fairmont San Juan Capistrano
26333 Oso Rd. | San Juan Capistrano
714.234.2784FairmontSchools.com

Fairmont San Juan Capistrano

Capistrano Unified School District

Capistrano Unified School District
FLEXIBLE LEARNING COMES TO CUSD

Capistrano Unified School District

Capistrano Unified School District debuted a new kind of educational model in the fall of 2025, empowering families to design their own educational format. At Marblehead Flex Academy, families can choose a personalized, adaptable education starting in TK. Students can learn in in-person or online independent study environments, or choose a 50/50 flex schedule with online and in-person instruction.

The flex model is ideal for families who want more control of their educational framework, adaptable to the particular needs or outside interests of the student. Through online study, students can progress at their own pace, revisit challenging concepts, and explore topics of personal interest in greater depth. This individualized approach promotes self-discipline, responsibility, and confidence in learning—skills that are foundational for long-term academic success.

At the same time, access to in-person instruction and extracurricular activities ensures that students remain socially engaged and benefit from hands-on learning opportunities. Students have access to all of the opportunities of a CUSD student, including music, art, physical education and more. This hybrid approach balances the flexibility of online education with the community, structure, and enrichment of traditional schooling—supporting the whole child academically, socially, and emotionally.

The beautiful Marblehead Elementary campus in San Clemente is home to this exciting new educational venture. Contact the front office today at (949) 234-5339 for more information or to enroll your student.

PUBLIC EDUCATION EXCELLENCE

  • Academic, college and personal Counselors on all campuses • Best Communities for Music Education Designation from the NAMM Foundation for outstanding commitment to music education
  • Visual & Performing Arts dedicated to artistic excellence
  • Championship caliber athletic programs
  • Spanish and Mandarin Language Immersion Programs (K-12)

ELEMENTARY

  • Full and Half-Day Preschool Programs (Ages 3-5)
  • Transitional and Full-day Kindergarten
  • Award-winning TK-12 general music, instrumental & choral instruction
  • Gifted and Advanced Learners (GATE)

SECONDARY

  • College & Career Advantage Partnership
  • High School Specialized Academies
  • College@Capo: College credit courses taught by Saddleback College faculty on high school campuses
  • College and Career Counselors at all High Schools
  • International Baccalaureate Programs
  • Advanced Placement Courses
  • FIRST® Robotics: FTC and FRC Competition Teams

Capistrano Unified School District
33122 Valle Road | San Juan Capistrano
949.234.9200CapoUSD.org

Capistrano Unified School District

California Republic Leadership Academy

California Republic Leadership Academy
UNAPOLOGETICALLY DEVELOPING A GENERATION OF VIRTUOUS LEADERS

California Republic Leadership Academy Capistrano

California Republic Leadership Academy Capistrano, a tuition-free charter school deeply rooted in the classical liberal arts tradition, is dedicated to shaping scholars who embody excellence in soul, mind, and body. The school’s unwavering commitment to this purpose sets it apart as truly exceptional.

CRLA Capistrano’s academic program consistently produces scholars with outstanding achievements, instilling a focus on character excellence and virtue. Grounded in the classical liberal arts tradition, the school’s curriculum, culture, and purpose yield remarkable results based on timeless principles.

Through Classical Education, the school guides students to appreciate truth, goodness and beauty. Historical facts are presented to provide a natural understanding of how morality has shaped the world. Teachers deliver unbiased instruction, fostering curiosity and sparking a love for learning.

Critical thinking naturally evolves as students reflect on learned concepts and make connections to their lives. Subjects like math, Latin, and grammar contribute to their analytical skills. In contrast to postmodern ideology, Classical Education rejects relative truth, emphasizing the objective pursuit of knowledge.

The primary goal of Classical Education is to cultivate virtue and wisdom in students, instilling a deep appreciation for truth, beauty, and goodness. Recognizing the intrinsic curiosity of children, the curriculum focuses on moral development, promoting critical thinking through content-rich lessons.

Classical Education upholds language, mathematics, and the teacher as central, emphasizing critical thinking through thoughtful questioning. The objective is not just to instruct students on what to think but to teach them how to think. The school believes in education for its intrinsic value, valuing truth, beauty, and goodness above mere vocational training.

To embark on the transformative journey of classical education for your child, contact California Republic Leadership Academy Capistrano today at 949.298.6040 or visit CRLAcapo.org for more information. Discover how our commitment to excellence can shape the future of your scholar.

California Republic Leadership Academy Capistrano
31711 San Juan Creek Road | San Juan Capistrano
949.298.6040www.CRLAcapo.org

California Republic Leadership Academy Capistrano

Tannins

Tannins

Tannins

Restaurant & Wine Bar

by Dina Scaglione

A Cozy Classic with Flavorful Flair
Tannins is one of those rare local gems that feels less like a restaurant and more like going to a friend’s house for dinner—only with a better menu. There’s a genuine warmth from the moment you walk in, filled with friendly faces, kind-hearted greetings and a sense this is where you belong. Think Southern Italian-style comfort food centered around flavorful pastas and hearty main entrées, balancing old-world café charm with a modern flair.

From Salads to Steak
Lunch, dinner and Happy Hour options abound, with a large selection of satisfying dishes. Known for their entrée-size salads, a standout is the Tannins Salad—mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, garbanzo beans, avocado, shallots, capers and a refreshing poppy seed dressing. Sandwich fans will love the Del Obispo, made with sliced turkey, avocado, lettuce, tomato and onions on a French roll with red raspberry vinaigrette.

Pizzas are another highlight. Try the signature Tannins Pizza, its olive oil-brushed crust layered with mozzarella, parmesan, ricotta, Romano cheese, red onion, garlic and fresh parsley—or go for the classic Margarita with fresh mozzarella, Roma tomatoes and sweet basil.

Entrée lovers can dig into hearty portions of Chicken Parmesan, Pancetta Carbonara or Harris Ranch Flat Iron Steak, just to name a few.

Specials & Sips
Happy Hour runs Mondays from 2 p.m. to close, Tuesday through Friday from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. Bring in your receipt from the car wash next door between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. and enjoy 15% off your bill. Other weekly perks include Wine Wednesdays with half off bottles of wine, and Tail Tuesdays—offering a 6-ounce Maine lobster paired with a 4-ounce filet mignon for just $29.99.

Still a Favorite After 20 Years
Now celebrating its 20th year, Tannins remains a beloved local favorite offering generously portioned, expertly prepared meals served without pretense—or breaking the wallet. Open daily, Sunday through Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., and until later on Fridays and Saturdays.

 

Tannins Restaurant & Wine Bar
27211 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano
949.661.8466 • TanninsRestaurant.com