Education Spotlight 2019

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 monthly hands-on 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

Santa Margarita Catholic High School develops students who are people of faith, skilled lifelong learners, healthy individuals and involved citizens of the world. Ranked as the No. 1 Catholic High School in the county by Niche.com, the school’s 42-acre campus is nestled against the picturesque Saddleback Valley Mountains in Rancho Santa Margarita. 

Individualized Learning

• Academic tracks tailored to meet the needs of varied learners
• 106 higher level courses
• Only Catholic high school in the county to offer the rigorous International Baccalaureate program
• Auxiliary Studies Program supports students with specialized learning needs
• Model United Nations program gives students the opportunity to attend mock meetings of the UN worldwide
• Award-winning arts program with 63 visual and performing arts courses
• Nine counselors assist with academic, college and personal counseling
• 14:1 student-to-faculty ratio
• One of 30 schools in the nation recognized as a Microsoft Showcase School for transforming the educational experience through student-centered immersive learning

College Preparedness

• 99 percent of graduates in the Class of 2018 attend college with 92 percent at four-year universities; the class received $57.8 million in scholarship offers
• Director of college relations dedicated to building strong partnerships with universities across the nation
• 100 percent acceptance rate at 208 schools (class of 2018)
• Comprehensive college counseling and college relations programs 
• Approximately 155 college representatives visit campus annually to recruit SMCHS students

Building Champions for Life

• 66 CIF championships, 208 league championships and seven state championships
• 25 CIF teams plus club sports including roller hockey, ice hockey, equestrian, surfing and
  sand volleyball
• Nine-time recipient of the CIF Commissioners Cup, recognizing the top athletic program in the 585-member CIF Southern Section

Campus and Faith Life

• 90 percent of the student body participates in more than 85 campus clubs and activities developing leadership skills
• Eagles Edge program provides “real-world” experiences and networking opportunities
• Award-winning robotics program, the team took top honors in the county in 2018 earning an invitation to the world championships
• Retreats, fellowship, school Masses and service learning
• Link Crew eases the transition into high school with upperclassmen serving as mentors to the freshman class
• One in every four students receives tuition assistance
• Bus transportation serving Orange County

Santa Margarita Catholic High School
22062 Antonio Parkway
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688
949.766.6076 • www.smhs.org

Studies have shown that children attending preschool generally do significantly better academically, developmentally and socially in the long-term compared to children who do not enroll in a preschool. However, the simple fact of attending preschool does not guarantee any immediate or life-long benefits. The quality of a preschool is the critical factor.

Marina View Preschool in Laguna Niguel was established over 16 years ago and in December 2012 had a change of ownership due to the previous owner’s retirement. The school is now owned and directed by Reshma Morey, a mother of two young boys and an educator with over 17 years of teaching experience. The school cares for children ages 12 months to six years and provides a healthy balance of academics and a developmental program. The school offers an Infant, Toddler, Preschool, Junior K and K program. The school’s philosophy is to offer a strong, child-centered learning environment that educates the whole child: intellectually, socially, emotionally, and physically. Marina View’s vision is to create a love of learning in children that lasts a lifetime.

Since taking over the school, Mrs. Morey has made a number of improvements including developing a rigorous academic curriculum that exceeds the California Core Standards in the Junior K and K classes and includes formal Spanish instruction in all Pre-K classes.  Mrs. Morey has also embarked on creating a sense of community amongst the parents by having more events at the school such as the annual “Fun Run,” Open House, Halloween Parade, Winter Holiday Recital, Father’s Day and Mother’s Day celebrations, Kindergarten Science Fair, and “Masters of Art” Show. There are a number of additional events scheduled for 2019!

Over the years, Marina View has built an impeccable reputation by having an effective and proven school curriculum and an attractive and safe school facility. The school provides a developmentally appropriate curriculum taught by long-tenured, degreed, and credentialed teachers and offers an introduction to Spanish in all classes, Learning Centers focused on math, art, reading, and science, and Enrichment classes in Gymnastics, Soccer, and Spanish.

If you are considering a preschool for your child, Marina View Preschool should definitely be on your list. 

Please call (949) 249-8687 to schedule a tour today or just stop by to visit the facility at your convenience.

Marina View Preschool
25301 Sweet Meadow Lane
Laguna Niguel
949.249.8687
www.MarinaViewPreschool.com

Our Lady of Fatima Academy is a TK-8th grade Catholic school. Our mission is to nurture every student to discover their God-given gifts, to encourage them to use these gifts in the service of others and to empower them to be models of integrity and peacemakers who work for justice. Parents, school staff, and parisha community collaborate in striving for excellence in the education of the children.

Faith-Filled Catholics

• Cultivating students’ spiritual and academic growth for 53 years 
• A welcoming learning environment that incorporates the value of “family”
• Strong Community Service Program ensures that students value their faith-filled education
• Student-led weekly school Mass, monthly Sunday Masses and May Crowning
• Choir groups
• Weekly Family Assistance Ministries food drives
• Annual participation in the Passion Play and the Knights of Columbus Writing Contest
• Numerous Academy/Parish community building events throughout the year

Life-long Learners

• WECA/WASC accredited
• Staffed by a team of outstanding credentialed, nurturing, and dedicated professionals
• Transitional Kindergarten – the first year of a two-year academic kindergarten program
• 1:1 integrated technology learning and programs
• Blended and differentiated learning opportunities
• Enrichment programs: Spanish, STEM, music, piano, art, drama, technology, and PE
• Yearly Science Fair
• Innovative electives for junior high students including Advanced Math
• After School fee-based programs

Effective Communicators

• Leadership opportunities encouraged
• Annual K-2, 3-6 and junior high musical productions
• Annual participation in local and regional competitions
• Fall, winter and spring PAL Athletics
• Kindness Counts Week
• Community Appreciation Day
• Art, Writing and Technology Night
• Participation in San Clemente’s Red Ribbon Week
• Lip sync and talent show nights

Globally Responsible Citizens

• Instructional Field Studies and Day Field Trips
• Weekly Fine Arts: music, piano, art, drama, choir, advanced technology
• Annual International Day

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

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