Why Parents Love Saint Catherine’s
“The best thing we have done for our kids is to enroll them at Saint Catherine of Siena Parish School. We love this school! They LOVE this school. Not only is it academically challenging, but it has helped us raise kind, responsible and loving kids who love God and their community! Our daughter was very well prepared for high school as well.” — Patty M.

60 Years of Excellence
Serving students from Transitional Kindergarten through Eighth Grade, Saint Catherine of Siena Parish School offers a curriculum designed to educate the whole child — mind, body and spirit. Originally opened in 1957, the campus was completely reconstructed in 2008. The facility offers spacious classrooms, separate elementary and middle school buildings, a science lab, computer facilities, art lab, library, music room and gymnasium with a stage for performing arts. The school has continually earned the highest level WCEA/WASC accreditation.

Discover the Arts
Saint Catherine’s school employs experts in visual arts, music and theater, holds its own annual Masters Pageant, and partners with the Pacific Symphony Class Act Music Appreciation Program.

Discover Science
STEM instruction begins at an early age at Saint Catherine’s School and continues through middle school. The teachers are trained by the Discovery Science Academy which helps educators and students increase their understanding of the new Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS).

Discover Math
The high school preparatory curriculum prepares students for success and graduates have gone on  to attend schools such as The University of Notre Dame, USC, UCLA, Harvard, Princeton and Cornell. The middle school competes in the Diocesan Academic Decathlon.

Discover Faith
As a Catholic institution, Saint Catherine of Siena nourishes each student’s spiritual journey while embracing a diversity of faiths.

Discover Yourself
Saint Catherine is also home to championship sports teams such as co-ed Inline Hockey, Flag Football and Girls Volleyball. The school also provides a wide range of after-school enrichment activities such as cooking, robotics, chess, instrumental music and community service.

The school is hosting an Open House on February 6, 2019. You are invited to attend Mass at 9:30 a.m. followed by a tour of the beautiful campus.

For information or to schedule a campus tour, please call the school office at (949) 494-7339.

St. Catherine of Siena Parish School
30516 S Coast Hwy.
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
949.494.7339
www.StCathSchool.org

Temple Beth El’s acclaimed Early Childhood Center has been enlightening children for over 16 illustrious years. The school has forged a strong reputation within the local community for its loving, experienced and long-term staff who are dedicated to each and every child in the program.

Temple Beth El offers a multitude of classes including Parent/Toddler classes for 7-24 months, Preschool for 2-4 years and a Pre-K/TK program. In addition, Temple Beth El offers dynamic after school enrichment classes and before and after school care.

Each year, Temple Beth El has been able to provide early education for children with varying special needs in a traditional classroom setting. For example, a child in need of a support facilitator would be welcomed and immersed in the program. Temple Beth El’s preschool curriculum is built with a balance between academic and developmental philosophies of education, with an emphasis on the whole child. It is designed to create an environment that encourages a love for learning, with a focus on the social, emotional, cognitive and physical development of each child.

Pre-K students prepare for Kindergarten by utilizing the “Get Set for School/Handwriting Without Tears” curriculum. All Pre-K teachers have been trained in this program to best implement the curriculum. 

The Temple Beth El facility is clean, bright and cheerful and has large playground-facing windows in each room. The school goes the extra mile to help create not just a vivid and cheerful atmosphere, but a splendid learning environment.

Check the Temple Beth El website at tbesoc.org in February for registration forms and to learn all about programs being offered. Registration will begin in February 2019. The school welcomes prospective families to schedule a tour of Temple Beth El in January and February. You can contact the admissions office at (949) 362-3999 ext. 317 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

Temple Beth El
2A Liberty
Aliso Viejo, CA 92656
(949) 362-3999
www.tbesoc.org

The Pathway Experience
Pathway understands that all children learn differently and that not all children can find success in a traditional classroom setting. It provides a small group approach to learning within a culture that instills confidence, respect, self-worth, and a growth mindset. The faculty at Pathway aims to ensure that no student falls between the cracks. Pathway recognizes the unique qualities, gifts, and needs of each student and strives to help students build upon their strengths, while honoring their learning challenges. The highly qualified staff employs research-based teaching strategies that complement the students’ individual learning styles, and allows them to overcome the obstacles blocking their way to academic success. The staff compassionately assists students that may struggle with social skills to build those skills and develop positive social relationships.

As students spend time at Pathway, they experience academic success and are encouraged to develop their areas of strength. Pathway students develop their unique learning style and become advocates for their optimum instructional experience. They expand their ability to think critically about the world around them. Students leave Pathway with an increased level of self-confidence, independence and social awareness, embracing a hope for their future.

Is Pathway right for your student?
Is your child struggling in reading, writing, or math? Do they have difficulty staying focused or organized? Is the workload too heavy and they can’t keep up? Are they overwhelmed by class size and peer interactions? Are they not receiving the support they need in order to be successful?

Pathway students possess the potential to perform well academically, but may struggle with:

• Attention Deficit Disorder
• Dyslexia
• Language processing
• Motivation and interest
• Anxiety
• Self-esteem
• Auditory and visual processing
• Autism Spectrum Disorder
• Other learning challenges

Within a nurturing Christian environment, Pathway School uses programs and strategies targeted to meet the needs of students who learn differently.

Pathway School
23802 Avenida de la Carlota
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
949.837.1203
www.PathwaySchool.net

Mission Basilica School embraces a rich heritage from its founding in 1928 as part of the Mission community founded by Saint Junipero Serra in 1776. The school honors Saint Serra’s mission by preparing every student for a life of leadership and Catholic values. The beautiful campus, uniquely located in the historic setting of the grounds of Mission San Juan Capistrano, has a student body of 270 in grades Pre-K to 8th. Mission Basilica School is a WCEA/WASC accredited, National Blue Ribbon School, staffed with highly skilled and credentialed teachers. Mission Basilica School continues to foster faith formation and academic excellence through its highly acclaimed programs.

Faith 

• Strong Catholic Identity
• Christ-Centered Learning
• Weekly Mass in the Basilica
• Ongoing Christian Service
• Spiritual Retreats 

Academics

• 2-Year-Old, Preschool, Transitional K-8th grade classes
• Accredited by the WCEA
• Rigorous Academic Curriculum
• Student-Centered Classrooms
• 1-to-1 iPads
• STEM Laboratories
• Fitness, Sports and Health Education
• Rich Fine Arts Program
• Spanish Language Program
• After School Clubs and Programs
• Extended Day Care

CALL TODAY to Schedule a Tour: (949) 234-1385

Mission Basilica School
31641 El Camino Real
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
949.234.1385 x2 • www.MissionBasilicaSchool.org

Conveniently located on the South end of San Clemente, Our Savior’s Lutheran School (OSLS) is a developmental, play-based, Reggio-inspired, Christian Preschool and Kindergarten. Our Savior’s is a close-knit family that understands and values exceptional education, equipping children to be positive members of their community.

OSLS is committed to excellence through a creative and energizing curriculum, with a strong social and emotional foundation. Curriculum is modeled around Howard Gardner’s Theory of Multiple Intelligences. Their highly qualified and inspirational staff provide a quality educational experience.  All OSLS families receive constant communication regarding their child’s growth, supported by assessments and progress reports along with parent teacher conferences. This partnership facilitates an extension of the child’s day into the home and bridges the learning opportunities both at school and beyond.

Our Savior’s Lutheran School provides a unique opportunity for children to be engaged in a pre-academic environment with a child centered approach. Their preschool team designs their curriculum and lesson plans starting with the California Preschool Learning Foundations, customizing instruction based on classroom personality and the child’s individualized goals and needs. These developmentally appropriate practices and classroom experiences intentionally foster exposure to the world around the child and capture the many moments of curiosity. Throughout the day OSLS teachers guide student learning individually and in groups to explain, educate, and empower the children, encouraging them to ask questions and explore their learning environment. They understand that every child develops at their own pace, while being committed to continuous growth and excellence in all levels of early childhood education. With a long-term education in mind, OSLS’ most important goal is to foster and encourage a love of learning.

To find out more about Our Savior’s Lutheran School and their new Kindergarten program starting in Fall 2019, attend their Open House on Wednesday, January 30 from 9 to 11 a.m. At the conclusion of their program, enjoy a free concert from acclaimed Children’s Christian Musician Jana Alayra. Email the Director of School, Joan Lundbohm, (j.lundbohm@oursaviorsschool.net), for more information.

Our Savior’s Lutheran School
200 Avenida San Pablo
San Clemente, CA 92672
949.492.6165 • OurSaviorsSchool.net

Futures Academy, formerly Halstrom Academy, is an accredited private school offering premium personalized learning for grades 6-12. Its course listing includes 170 core courses, 27 Honors, 18 AP and over 70 twenty-first century electives. Futures Academy specializes in an innovative and student-centric education model focused on 1:1 instruction. The school’s unique one student, one teacher approach is the core principal behind its academic success.

Futures fosters a bully-free environment where customized learning and a content mastery philosophy allow for each student to progress at their own pace. Because students meet with their teachers one-on-one, there is no room for distractions, hiding in the back of class, or feeling inferior to other students in the classroom. Instruction at Futures Academy creates a pathway to success for many students who can benefit from customized teaching and flexible scheduling. When not in class, students have opportunities to socialize together through clubs and activities. Every day, Futures Academy provides a powerful alternative for parents whose children may not be living up to their full potential in a traditional school.

Futures students come from various backgrounds. Some struggle with academia, learning challenges or social anxiety while others are athletes and actors who find the flexible scheduling options beneficial. Regardless of where students come from, they all value the 1:1 instruction that is not found in the traditional classroom.

Futures Academy has four campus locations in Orange County with year-round, open enrollment for full-time or part-time schedules. Futures Academy is WASC Accredited and UC, CSU & NCAA Approved.

To RSVP for an upcoming information session or to schedule a no-obligation campus tour, call (866) 590-8458.

Futures Academy
25201 Paseo De Alicia, Suite 250
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
866.590.8458
www.Futures4u.com

Did you know that one out of every five children struggle in reading? Children who receive intervention before 3rd grade have a 90% chance of increasing their reading skills to meet their intellectual abilities. Due to the high demands of literacy, reading is more important than ever! The Johnson Academy and Speech, Language & Learning Center (SLLC), located in San Juan Capistrano, offers evidence-based reading and math intervention programs to improve phonemic awareness, comprehension, vocabulary knowledge and cognitive abilities.

About The Founder
Cathy Johnson became a licensed Speech/Language Pathologist in 1991 after completing a B.A. and M.A. in Communication Disorders, with a minor in Child Development. She initially focused on treating young children with speech and language disorders but broadened her scope of practice when those same young children returned to her for help in reading. Additionally, Cathy’s own daughter was diagnosed with dyslexia and her mission to help children became her passion.

The Johnson Academy and SLLC, offer a variety of programs to help children with reading and learning differences. The individualized approach in teaching allows the school to adapt to the unique learning style of each child. There are one-on-one reading therapy sessions available before and after school at SLLC for children attending traditional school. The Johnson Academy services families who are looking for an all-day school experience. With the low teacher to student ratio, the children are able to excel in a hands-on learning environment.

Programs
The Speech, Language & Learning Center offers a comprehensive assessment battery consisting of diagnostic tests designed to identify your child’s strengths and weaknesses. After the assessment, a consultation is scheduled to explain the results and discuss an individualized intervention tailored to specifically address areas of concern.

Lindamood-Bell^® Programs • Seeing Stars^® for Reading Fluency and Spelling
There are many reasons why a child has difficulties in reading. There may be a break down in their ability to segment words into their smallest visual or auditory components. There may be issues in visual or auditory memory which may lead to difficulty in remembering the spelling patterns of words. Children with dyslexia may also experience problems acquiring the large sight-word base necessary for fluency reading.

If your child struggles with keeping up in school, please contact us to find out more information! Call 949.487.5251 or visit scheduling@ocsllcinc.com.

The Johnson Academy
27127 Calle Arroyo, Ste. 1920
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
949.487.5251
TheJohnsonAcademy.com

San Clemente Christian School

Same heart, new location! San Clemente Christian School is now nestled in the heart of Talega, in the city of San Clemente—striving everyday to support the mission, vision, and heart of the school. SCCS serves students in Transitional Kindergarten through upper school and has recently introduced a new flexible education model option for the 2019-20 school year.

San Clemente Christian School’s philosophy brings the “boutique school” concept to life. Classes are intentionally designed to allow teachers to honor each child’s individual strengths and needs, offering only one class of students per grade level (20 maximum). The ability to adapt to the diverse needs of the student population is paramount to the leadership of SCCS as it strives to provide an environment that encourages academic excellence, physical and emotional confidence and spiritual maturity—all through research based instructional strategies. Dr. Magnuson, Head of Schools shares, “We are a family that truly values every student for who God created them to be. They are taught to love, support, and respect each other by a highly educated and qualified staff who are determined to challenge our students beyond their perceived potential.”

The school’s academic approach is threefold in nature—utilizing a cross curricular model through STEAM learning, emphasizing projects and creativity, and developing a servant’s heart through community outreach opportunities. Principal Rebecca Romo says, “In today’s world, it is essential to encourage students to innovate, problem solve, take calculated risks, experience learning in a hands-on way, and work collaboratively. With this collection of skills, students become directors and advocates of their own learning process.” The school actively uses a universal design for learning, presenting content in various forms and allowing students numerous opportunities to engage with the material and demonstrate their knowledge. In addition, SCCS is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).

San Clemente Christian School provides diverse enrichment opportunities including art, music, ukulele, surf club, Spanish, physical education, and student and family mission trips. Dr. Magnuson emphasizes, “Providing opportunities for students to learn beyond the walls of the classrooms is essential. That is where lasting, authentic growth takes place that in turn benefits the learning process.” Students from all grade levels are introduced to field trips, labs, and hands-on experiences beginning in Transitional Kindergarten. SCCS is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and cutting-edge curriculum in every class which ultimately enhance each student’s unique learning process.

The staff is excited about the growth and development of their Hybrid Educational/Homeschool Program, offering a positive, adaptable, and unique alternative to other options in the community. The overriding goal of this program is to provide parents with educational choices to suit their family’s unique needs. Programs range from three days on campus with lab and support options, to a modified school week allowing for flexibility in attendance. Principal Rebecca Romo shares, “In a time when parents are seeking to be more active in their child’s education, or are seeking a more flexible approach to learning, we are so pleased to offer this alternative while still ensuring that students receive a top-notch education, develop his or her giftings, and ultimately thrive.”

SCCS has a “goal to provide life-changing experiences that ultimately inspire students to become great leaders and critical thinkers while seeking positive change in their environment.” Leadership instruction begins in Transitional Kindergarten and is based upon four cornerstone ideas which comprise the school’s model called P.A.C.E.—Prepare for the future, Acquire a servant’s heart, Connect to communities, organizations and global issues, Energize youth to make lasting change. Dr. Magnuson offers, “We are truly focused on the whole child. We are a community who believes not only in developing every student’s academic strengths, but also pouring into their emotional and spiritual maturity.”

Learn more about San Clemente Christian School’s mission, vision, academic curriculum and programs at sanclementechristianschool.com or by calling (949) 496-3513 to schedule a tour today.

San Clemente Christian School
1050 Calle Negocio, San Clemente
949.496.3513
SanClementeChristianSchool.com

Italian Cravings

by Dina Scaglione

With a name like Scaglione, you might think I’d be a snob when it comes to Italian fare. For those of you who also grew up with Pasta Sundays and the aroma of sauce (or gravy as some of you may know it) simmering on the stove, Italian Cravings is a must-visit dining destination. The warm and inviting, yet unassuming, eatery is located just off Avenida Del Mar in downtown San Clemente. Serving up pizzas, pasta and sandwiches, even the most discerning “paisans” will feel right at home.

There’s an old saying amongst Italian cooks, “There is no such thing as too much garlic.”  This adage rings true when it comes to Italian Cravings’ delectable Bruschetta Alla Abruzzo. Toasted slices of garlic bread are accompanied by fresh chopped tomatoes, mozzarella, lotsa garlic, basil and, of course, EVOO. For a savory dish with a bit of a kick, try the Sautéed Shrimp Cajun appetizer, served with a flavorful, zesty sauce.

For pasta dishes, I’d recommend Tony’s Special. This house favorite is a hearty penne pasta served with fresh shrimp, asparagus and sun-dried tomatoes in a creamy alfredo sauce. Another dish that won’t disappoint is the Cravings MaMa Mia — mostaccioli pasta with grilled chicken, artichoke hearts and sun-dried tomatoes served with a delicious creamy marinara sauce.

The restaurant’s priced-right “Dinner for Two” special includes: two glasses of beer or wine, two entrées, and two salads or soups for a mere $35. Other weekly specials include Monday evening Spaghetti and Meatballs for only $7.95 and Tortellini Tuesday for only $8.95. On Wednesdays, come in and enjoy $10 bottles of wine or half-off house wine.

Located in the heart of San Clemente, Italian Cravings offers outdoor covered seating, on a pet-friendly patio. Lunch specials are served Monday through Friday, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and include your choice of one entrée plus a fresh salad or soup for just $9.95.

Open 7-days-a-week for lunch and dinner, from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., the aptly named Italian Cravings is sure to satiate both fellow paisans and comfort food aficionados alike. 

Italian Cravings
105 S. Ola Vista  •  San Clemente
(949) 492-2777   •   ItalianCravings.com

Star Motors

Luxury Auto Service

QUALITY • INTEGRITY • VALUE

By Veronica Badzey

There’s a reason Star Motors luxury auto service has won the Orange County Register’s People’s Choice Award for ten years running, and it goes far beyond an ability to deliver exceptional car repair and maintenance. For every technician and service advisor at Star Motors, the relationship with the client comes first. Chris Knuth and his wife, Emma, have co-owned Star Motors since 2008. “The company’s success has been fueled by our belief that we specialize in people and fix cars for fun,” shares Chris.

Chris is an ASE-certified technician who spent 15 years as a mechanic before he became the owner-operator of Star Motors. His motivation for purchasing and managing his own auto shop was simple, “We thought we could do it better,” he relates with a grin.

Star Motors specializes in providing the highest quality auto repair and maintenance services for European luxury vehicles, including Mercedes Benz, BMW, Jaguar, Land Rover, Porsche, Audi, Volkswagen, Rolls Royce, and Bentley. All of Star Motors’ mechanics are certified by the National Association of Automotive Excellence (ASE), and have over 100 years of combined industry experience. Many of them are also factory-trained with years of dealership experience and they remain current with the latest industry trends and technology by attending 40 hours of required continuing education each year.

As a member of the National Automotive Service Task Force (NASTF), Star Motors has access to all OEM security and diagnostic information for major European luxury brands and uses the latest tools and advanced diagnostic equipment to complete dealership-level repairs for all makes and models. Yet this award-winning, independently-owned auto shop is just as happy to work on a Ford or Honda as on a Rolls Royce, and commonly provides car repair and maintenance services for entire families.

“Once a car owner realizes they can trust us with their vehicle,” says Chris, “they want the same high level of service for their kid’s cars. They also frequently recommend us to their extended family, friends, and neighbors.”

Star Motors goes out of its way to make caring for your car as simple and hassle-free as possible. In addition to same-day repairs, it also offers complimentary loaner cars to every customer, as well as free shuttle service to anywhere in South Orange County. If repairs take longer than a day, customers can take advantage of a $25/day discounted rental rate with neighboring Enterprise Rent-A-Car. And for true red-carpet treatment, ask about Star Motors’ door-to-door concierge service where a courteous team member will come to your home or workplace to pick up your car, drive it to the dealership to be serviced, and return it to you at your preferred location – all free of charge.

Star Motors also offers a VIP Savings Club that delivers exceptional discounts on the most frequently-needed auto maintenance services, such as brake repair, oil changes, A/C recharges, and power steering fluid renewal. The VIP Discount Card provides a $619.96 value for only $139.96, covers multiple vehicles, and can be shared amongst family and friends. Together with an industry-leading, 3-year, 36,000-mile parts and labor warranty, this makes Star Motors the best value for luxury auto service maintenance in Orange County.

For complete peace of mind, every visit also includes a comprehensive 59-point digital vehicle inspection that checks all major systems, including fluid levels, tire pressure, belts, hoses, and more.

Star Motors never pressures its customers to make unnecessary repairs. Instead, service advisors spend extra time explaining their findings in detail and assist car owners with recommended maintenance and repairs to suit their schedules and budgets.

With clients returning from as far away as Arizona, Nevada, and Texas, it comes as no surprise that Star Motors has some of the most loyal customers in Orange County. “At the end of the day,” Chris reminds his staff, “We’re not just repairing cars, we’re keeping families safe.”

Star Motors is proud to be a AAA Approved Auto Repair Shop, a Bosch Certified Service Station, and a Certified California Green Station.

Vehicles Services:

• Audi
• BMW
• Mercedes Benz
• Jaguar
• Porsche
• Land Rover

Hours
Monday – Friday: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Saturday – Sunday: Closed

Star Motors
32961 Calle Perfecto Avenida Aeropuerto
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
949.446.1385
customerservice@star-motors.com
star-motors.com