Author Archives: the local dish

Our Lady of Fatima Academy

Our Lady of Fatima Academy
EMPOWERING TODAY’S CHILDREN TO PROMOTE TOMORROW’S LEADERS

our lady of fatima

Our Lady of Fatima Academy is a 21st Century learning community founded in 1965 that has educated students in South Orange County for over 50 years. Nestled among the rolling hills with a view of the Pacific, OLF is the only Catholic School in San Clemente. The school is fully accredited and staffed by an outstanding team of credentialed, nurturing, and dedicated faculty. The secured campus offers a welcoming learning environment for all students centered on the value of “family.” OLF is a dynamic, technology-driven learning institution that prides itself on spirituality, academic rigor and high student expectations amid small class sizes that “empower today’s children to promote tomorrow’s leaders.” The school’s robust Community Service Program ensures that OLF students value and live their faith-filled educational experiences.

OLF’s students are committed learners who demonstrate excellence in academic expectations, technology acquisition, and service to their community. With a cross-curricular and cross-cultural approach to instruction, OLF offers each student differentiated opportunities to explore, investigate, and demonstrate understanding by means of a hands-on approach to learning that integrates 1:1 technology opportunities. By complementing the academic rigor with the offerings of innovative electives, the OLF faith-filled student cultivates a zest for life-long learning, develops into an effective communicator and advances as a globally responsible citizen. Proudly, 100% of OLF graduates are accepted into local Catholic High Schools. Most of OLF’s graduates place into Honors/Advanced Placement courses and/or Magnet Programs. OLF students are recognized within the local and regional contests of various competitions including Chapman University’s Holocaust Art, Writing, Poetry and Film Contest, Orange County Science Fair, Jr. High Academic Decathlon, Knight’s of Columbus’ Writing Contest, and OC Catholic Charities Poster Contest, JSerra HS sponsored Retreats, Battle of the Rockets, and Spelling Bee Tournament.

OLF’s Early Education Center’s Transitional Kindergarten program is the first year of a two-year academic Kindergarten program that is specifically designed to give four-year-olds and young fives the “gift of time” to develop socially, emotionally, and cognitively. All students participate weekly in the enrichment classes of Spanish, Music, Piano, Art, Choir and PE. K-2, 3-5, and Middle School Musical Productions are a highlight of the school year along with the annual all-school Christmas Program and 5th Grade Passion Play. The extended field studies programs for 4-8th graders include Sacramento day trip, The Pilgrim, Catalina Ecology Safari, ECOS Science Camp, Channel Islands, and Philadelphia/Gettysburg/Washington D.C. OLF School enthusiastically hosts upwards of 30 community-building events for students and parents throughout the school year.

Our Lady of Fatima Academy
105 N. La Esperanza
San Clemente, CA 92672
949.492.7320 • www.olfschool.net

 

Our Lady of Fatima Academy

 

Stratford School

Stratford School
Connecting students to their unique futures
Enrolling Preschool – 8th Grade

stratford school

 

At Stratford School, high expectations lead to extraordinary results. The schools advanced, innovative, and intentionally balanced curriculum inspires, challenges, and nurtures the minds and hearts of every student. It also produces impressive results. Stratford students outscore independent school students, are recognized for academic achievement, and contribute to their communities.

The curriculum is created in a thoughtful and deliberate way to provoke curiosity, nurture exploration, and encourage inquiry. Students develop a love of learning, study above grade level, and prepare themselves for the future. 

Stratford infuses its broad liberal arts curriculum with Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM). It combines traditional teaching styles with 21st century learning principles, integrating technology with careful intention. The school provides a variety of extracurricular pursuits, personal development activities, physical education, and play time. The teachers cultivate a physically and emotionally secure classroom environment. The staff both welcome and listen to the feedback of students’ parents.

The result is a rich spectrum of hands-on learning opportunities — provided in an energized classroom atmosphere where students are mentally focused and highly engaged — that enable students to learn, question, collaborate, and develop the diverse skills and talents they need to compete
in today’s world.

Harnessing the collective power of over 6,000 students, 800 teachers, 100 administrators, and 300 classrooms, Stratford School is able to explore and rapidly implement new teaching practices to achieve the ultimate goal of preparing students to become the next generation of creative problem-solvers, imaginative innovators, and confident, insightful leaders.

To learn more visit www.StratfordSchools.com/mission-viejo

Stratford School
24741 Chrisanta Drive
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
www.StratfordSchools.com

 

Stratford School

 

The Parish School | St. Edward The Confessor Catholic Church

The Parish School

St. Edward The Confessor Catholic Church
an evolving schoolwide learning environment

The Parish School | St. Edward The Confessor Catholic Church

Always learning, The Parish School graduates are confident and compassionate young men and women who will make a difference. Faithful to Catholic values, The Parish School at St. Edward the Confessor Catholic Church sustains an evolving schoolwide learning environment that inspires each learner to achieve his or her God-given potential inside and outside the classroom.

ALWAYS LEARNING

The Parish School is #AlwaysLearning. Learners don’t just memorize math equations or recite spelling words. They ask questions. They explore. They love not just school – but the process of learning. And learning comes not just through doing things right, but through doing things wrong. The Parish School develops resilient, innovative learners who try, grow and achieve.

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

The Parish School utilizes a standard-based curriculum aligned to the Roman Catholic Church teachings which prepares learners for high school and beyond. The faculty and staff continually expose learners to meaningful hands-on experiences, resulting in thoughtful risk-taking, problem solving and collaboration.

SMALLER CLASSES – IN-DEPTH LEARNING

Not only does the school boast an impressive 11:1 instructor-to-student ratio, they have a unique classroom format. The Lower School is the first in the Diocese to use Departmentalized Platooning. Each class moves as a unit between three classrooms, with a teacher focused on just two subjects. The result – a richer learning experience and expert teachers.

In the Upper School, each learner has eight periods daily on a waterfall schedule, the standard for many high schools. The classes are integrated, yet small groups and individualized instruction ensures learners’ needs are met and challenged.

CREATIVITY

Through art and music classes and after-school activities like chorus and the Spring Musical, The Parish School builds creative and confident leaders. And, they are one of the only schools to offer Makerspace – a hands-on studio that integrates technology, engineering and creativity with project-based solutions to real-world situations.

FAITH DEVELOPMENT

Each day, the school community prays, serves and grows in their relationship with the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. It is present in the books they read, the history they teach, and the music they sing. Learners attend weekly mass, provide mentorship through Prayer Partners and participate in service projects and retreats.

The Parish School | St. Edward The Confessor Catholic Church
33866 Calle La Primavera
Dana Point, CA 92629
949.496.1241 • www.StEdSchool.org

 

The Parish School | St. Edward The Confessor Catholic Church

 

TEMPLE BETH EL

Temple Beth El
PROVIDING TOP QUALITY EDUCATIONAL
OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALL STAGES OF LIFE

Temple-Beth-El

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 2018. 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

temple-beth-el

Saddleback Valley Christian School

Saddleback Valley Christian School
THINK YOU CAN’T AFFORD A QUALITY CHRISTIAN EDUCATION? THINK AGAIN!

Saddleback-Valley-Christian-School

Saddleback Valley Christian School is proud to offer Variable Tuition, which matches your tuition with your unique financial situation. This makes an exceptional Christian education accessible to families for whom it might otherwise be out of reach. SVC believes this is representative of God’s heart.

The mission of Saddleback Valley Christian School is to educate and disciple all students as they discover their purpose in the work of God’s Kingdom. Serving Preschool through High School, SVC is a college-preparatory, WASC-accredited school. Outstanding academics are paired with many opportunities in athletics, the arts, missions and service. Small classroom sizes (low student/teacher ratios) foster a safe, family-oriented learning environment.

THE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL FOR ALL

  • Preschool through High School
  • 18:1 average student to teacher ratio
  • Biblically-integrated curriculum, missions & local outreach
  • Daily Christian-based discipleship
  • 22 AP & honors courses 
  • Vibrant student life includes retreat, clubs & athletics + 15 CIF sports
  • College & career prep cohorts
  • Multiple elective opportunities, including choir, art, musical theatre & graphic design
  • 1:1 technology, digital curriculum & robust STEM program
  • Serving all of South Orange County since 1997

CORE VALUES

SVC is Kingdom-Minded:

  • Works to advance the cause of Christ in the world
  • Models and emulates Christ while seeking to disciple students
  • Worships God in every way possible

SVC is Student-Centered:

  • Believes that every student is fearfully and wonderfully made
  • Understands that every decision should be made through the lens of student experience
  • Affirms that diversity and accessibility are central to the development of Christian community

For more information, email Grant Waggoner, Director of Admission, at gwaggoner@svcschools.org

Saddleback Valley Christian School
26333 Oso Road
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
949.443.4050 • www.TheChristianSchoolForAll.org

 

Saddleback Valley Christian School

 

Halstrom Academy

Halstrom Academy
1:1 Instruction helps students engage, connect and learn on a deeper level

Halstrom-Academy

Halstrom 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. Halstrom offers credit recovery, course remediation, and tutoring as well as a full-time solution for middle and high school students. Halstrom fosters a bully-free environment where customized learning and a content mastery philosophy allow for each student to progress at their own pace. When not in class, students have opportunities to socialize together through activities. Every day, Halstrom Academy provides a powerful alternative for parents whose children may not be living up to their full potential in a traditional school.

Halstrom 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.

Visit Halstrom Academy’s Mission Viejo campus on Saturday, January 20, 2018 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. for an Information Session to learn about their innovative learning environment, and their newest event program called Brain Labs.

Brain Labs is now offered exclusively at Halstrom Academy, Orange County campuses. This program is focused on improving your child’s ability to learn and is the same premier program presented at Stanford University. Don’t miss this opportunity as Dr. Tere Linzey, creator of Brain Labs, demonstrates how this program optimizes brain function.

Halstrom Academy has four campuses in Orange County with year-round, open enrollment for full-time or part-time schedules. It offers a strong curriculum with over 140 courses, 22 Honors and 20 Advanced Placement (AP). Halstrom Academy is WASC Accredited and UC, CSU & NCAA Approved.

To RSVP for the information session or to schedule a campus tour, call (866) 590-8458 or visit www.halstromevent.com.

Halstrom Academy
25201 Paseo De Alicia, Suite 250
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
866.590.8458 • www.Halstrom4U.com

 

Halstrom Academy

 

Saint Catherine of Siena

Saint Catherine of Siena
DISCOVERYOURSELF

st-catherine

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, cutting-edge 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 Pageant of the Masters, 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 onto 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 and instrumental music.

The school is hosting an Open House on February 1, 2018 at 5:30 p.m., the same evening as its community-wide Pasta Dinner. Visit the beautiful campus, meet the teachers and sit down with the families.

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

Saint Catherine of Siena
30516 S Coast Hwy.
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
949.494.7339 • www.StCathSchool.org

 

Saint Catherine of Siena

 

Mission Basilica School

Mission Basilica School
National Blue Ribbon School

mission-basilica

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

  • New 2-Year-Old Program
  • Transitional Kindergarten Program 
  • 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

 

mission-basilica

CB CycleBarn®

CB CycleBarn®

CB CycleBarn®

By Veronica Badzey

CB CycleBarn®CB CycleBarn® opened its doors five years ago with three sold-out classes, and has since become San Clemente’s ultimate indoor cycling experience. CB CycleBarn® fosters a true sense of community, (locally known as TheBarn) and welcomes a broad range of clientele from all backgrounds and fitness levels. “I’m proud of our diversity,” says owner Karen Casler. “Anybody can ride here, whether you are a stay-at-home mom, a weekend warrior, or a competitive athlete.”

From the very beginning, Karen was determined to make CB CycleBarn® a safe space where anybody could come to get a fantastic workout, have fun, and find relief from the overly-scheduled stress of the digital world. More than physical fitness, Karen describes indoor cycling as “CardioTherapy,” with long-lasting benefits that renew the body, mind, and spirit. The high-energy, non-impact cardio workout is ideal for any fitness level. Instructor-guided classes are 45 minutes to an hour long, and include a warm-up, heart-pumping core, and cool-down period. Each participant sets their own level of difficulty by controlling the bike’s flywheel resistance, making for a truly individual experience.

At CB CycleBarn®, you never have to worry about showing up early to claim a bike, or risk not getting a bike at all. Instead of the first-come, first-serve method found at most indoor cycling gyms, clients at CB CycleBarn® reserve their bikes prior to each class through an easy-to-use, “Book Your Bike” online portal. The friendly staff works hard to accommodate clients’ varying schedules, with classes available 7-days-a-week, and some starting as early as 5:30 a.m. Complimentary towels, hand weights, and clip-on cycle shoes are available for all classes, as well as a customer favorite — post-workout, oil-infused cold towels. CB CycleBarn® instructors have free reign over their music selection and volume level, enabling them to customize the classes they teach. For riders that want a more subdued experience, ear plugs are available at the front desk.

The 800-square foot, air conditioned studio has a raised dais, allowing instructors an unobstructed view of the class. Studio walls are adorned with handpainted graffiti by a local artist, representing how deeply rooted TheBarn is in the community. Once the class gets going, the instructor dims the lights and an infectious energy takes riders to another world.

“People come in to check out,” relates Karen. “For some of them, this is the only free hour to themselves in their busy day.”

Besides the basic CB2 Cycle class, (based on a traditional Spinning® style class), customers can also choose from the CB2 IQ, a performance-driven option with real time leaderboards; CB2 Rhythm, a dance-inspired bike-party; and CB2 TotalBody, which includes segments of upper body resistance. Participants receive post-workout emails with a daily performance summary, providing details like calories burned, total miles biked, and average/max RPM.

If you’re looking for more than indoor cycling, you’ll find it at CB CycleBarn’s® newest addition to the family. A second, adjoining studio, opened 18 months ago, now offers PiYO, Barre, Bootcamp, and TRX classes.

With something for everyone, CB CycleBarn® easily fulfills its promise of “Keeping it Fun.” Deeply committed to providing a high-quality experience for every customer, Karen deliberately keeps her prices as low as possible. “What I care about most is people,” she enthuses, “not how much money I make. I measure success in lives changed.”

Karen lives in San Clemente with her husband Chris, and children Cory, Eileen and Ryan; all of whom have helped make CB CycleBarn® the success it is today. For a full schedule of classes and fees, visit CBCycleBarn.comThe first five classes for new customers are always FREE!

CHECK OUT OUR BEHIND THE SCENES COVER SHOOT ON YOUTUBE!youtube-thumb

CB CycleBarn® |  372 Camino de Estrella  |  San Clemente  |  949.481.5438  |  CBCycleBarn.com

Education Spotlight 2018

Education Spotlight
January 2018

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