Education Spotlight

At Stratford School, high expectations yield extraordinary results. The advanced yet intentionally balanced curriculum starts as early as preschool to inspire and nurture the minds and hearts of every student. From the outset, the school simplifies challenging concepts, then accelerates learning to enable students to study ahead of grade level, develop a love of learning, and prepare for the future. 

From Preschool through Grade 8, Stratford’s curriculum is infused with sequential instruction in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics — “STEAM” — to help students develop a diverse set of problem-solving skills and talents they’ll need in today’s world. We accomplish this through a unique cross-disciplinary approach that enhances critical thinking, integrates ideas from multiple subjects, and ultimately expands student learning. 

Beginning in Preschool, Stratford’s curriculum is designed to develop the cognitive, social, emotional, and physical building blocks. Hands-on, multi-sensory activities, including the Imaginative STEAM Play, encourage preschoolers to play and share with others, while developing their self-confidence, so each child discovers the joy and excitement of learning. 

In Elementary, the accelerated core curriculum exceeds the National Standardized ERB Results and motivates students to become critical thinkers and proficient writers. This balanced approach imparts students with not only a well-rounded education; it fosters the development of strong friendships, effective study skills, and blossoming self-confidence. 

Middle School continues the Stratford tradition of excellence. The faculty prepare and mentor students for placement in honors and advanced courses at top-tier private and public high schools. Stratford’s intentional approach to educating the whole child results in young adults who are gifted communicators, skilled, generous collaborators, creative problem-solvers, and confident, insightful leaders. 

The caring and passionate teachers cultivate a fun and nurturing classroom environment, where high expectations encourage students to try new things with confidence and enthusiasm. They present a broad spectrum of learning opportunities. They engage students. They invite questions. They encourage students to collaborate. Consequently, students laugh a lot, and learn even more. 

Learn more about Stratford’s Mission Viejo campus by visiting online or scheduling a tour at StratfordMissionViejo.com. 

Stratford School
24741 Chrisanta Drive | Mission Viejo, CA 92691
949.458.1776 • stratfordschools.com

St. Edward the Confessor Parish School is a preschool through eighth grade campus within the Diocese of Orange, sharing in the mission of the Roman Catholic Church to live the Gospel message by building Catholic identity through a Sacramental life of service to God, family, parish and community. 

CHARACTER
St. Edward students are #alwayslearning. The faculty and staff are dedicated to preparing students to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing world. St. Edward develops resilient, innovative and confident students. We strive to help our students grow spiritually, intellectually, socially and emotionally within a Christ-centered environment. 

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
Consistent with Diocesan curriculum guidelines, St. Edward Parish School follows the Common Core State Standards for English and math and the California Next Generation Science Standards. We are first and foremost a Catholic school. All curriculum seeks to educate the whole child, forming their spiritual, intellectual, personal and social capacities through academic, religious, faith formation, service and co-curricular programs which prepares students for success in high school, college and career. Teachers use differentiated instruction, engage students through meaningful hands-on experience and cultivate curiosity and creativity. 

COMMUNITY
Faith and academics are at the core of the school, but the community is the heart. Special events such as Family Movie Night, Monarch Main Event and Community Coffee highlight just some of the ways our school community comes together. Parents are involved in the school, from volunteering at events on campus to coaching after school sports and attending weekly Mass. 

FAITH DEVELOPMENT
St. Edward prepares students to meet the spiritual and moral challenges of the future by providing opportunities to develop and strengthen Catholic values. Students pray daily, attend Mass weekly, participate in service projects and provide mentorship through Prayer Partners. 

CREATIVITY
Through Art, Music and dynamic Makerspace classes, St. Edward students are able to develop and explore their talents and imagination. The Makerspace studio integrates technology, engineering and innovation providing students opportunities to apply project based solutions to real world situations. St. Edward offers a variety of after school programs and sports to further engage students interests and curiosity.

St. Edward The Confessor Parish School
33866 Calle La Primavera | Dana Point, CA 92629
949.496.1241 • WEBSITE

When you walk onto St. Anne School’s campus in Laguna Niguel, you will likely hear students practicing musical instruments, laughing on the playground, or singing at weekly Mass. You might witness Grade 8 students designing a website on their MacBooks, second graders dressed in period costumes as they explore their ancestry on Ellis Island Day, preschool students engrossed in hands-on learning at their outdoor classroom, or a bus filled with Grade 5 students ready to take off on a field study’s trip to Astro Camp. 

St. Anne School is an independent Roman Catholic school celebrating 30 years of providing a supportive learning environment where each child is inspired to pursue their highest level of academic achievement, spiritual formation, and character development. The collaborative community of inspirational teachers, dedicated administrators, and committed parents ensures students are empowered to explore their God-given gifts, discover their passions, and envision their future as a positive influence on the world. 

The devoted teachers at St. Anne School are trained in differentiated instruction, using strategies that stimulate deeper thinking and discussion with students. St. Anne School continues to develop much more than a student’s academic skills. With a strong Student Support Services department, all St. Anne students benefit from a team focused on physical, personal, and mental well-being. This 11-person department also encourages character development and offers academic support for students with mild to moderate learning differences. 

Students are given the freedom to explore and discover their passions and gifts through various elective classes such as orchestra, studio art, digital media production, and creative writing. A St. Anne student might also discover they are passionate about spirituality and service to others. Guided by the teachings of the Catholic Church, St. Anne School offers a vibrant Campus Ministry program where students are encouraged to participate in Christian service, class retreats, Masses, and spiritual leadership while growing a deeper connection to their faith. After-school programs such as the award-winning HarmonKnights show choir, the school play, and a variety of sports teams also offer opportunities for students to continue to explore and grow. 

St. Anne School looks forward to celebrating its 30th school year filled with opportunities for students to explore their gifts, discover their passions, and envision their future. To schedule a private tour or learn more about St. Anne School, please contact the Office of Admissions at 949.371.9932. 

St. Anne School
32451 Bear Brand Road | Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
949.000.0000 • st-anne.org

Conveniently located in San Clemente, Our Savior’s Lutheran School (OSLS) is a developmental, play-based, Reggio-inspired, Christian Preschool and Infant Center. 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, emotional, and Christ-centered foundation. Curriculum is modeled around Howard Gardner’s Theory of Multiple Intelligences. It’s 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 developmentally appropriate environment with a child-centered approach. The preschool team designs their curriculum and lesson plans starting with the California Preschool Learning Foundations, customizing instruction based on 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’s most important goal is to foster and encourage a love of learning. 

The Infant Center has two large, ocean view rooms with highly qualified and loving teachers. Instructors work with each family to ensure a smooth transition from home to school. They use the Brightwheel app which will keep you updated on your child’s day, routine, feeding schedule, naps as well as receive pictures and messages. 

To find out more about Our Savior’s Lutheran Preschool and Infant Center, please call the school at 949.492.6165 or email the Director, Amy Rivas, at a.rivas@oursaviorsschool.net. Follow on instagram @osls_sanclemente. 

Our Savior’s Lutheran Preschool and Infant Center
200 Avenida San Pablo | San Clemente, CA 92672
949.492.6165 • oursaviorsschool.net

Our Lady of Fatima Academy is a TK-8th grade Catholic elementary school. Its mission is to nurture individuals 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 parish community collaborate in striving for educational excellence.

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

Mathnasium Learning Centers slogan is simple: “We make math make sense!” Whether your child starts out far behind or is ahead in math, Mathnasium helps students advance because they know that any child can be successful in math—it is a matter of teaching it in a way that makes sense to them. 

The experienced math tutors utilize proprietary teaching materials and techniques, The Mathnasium Method™. This instructional approach goes beyond traditional math tutoring to develop an understanding and build a love for math. Students are evaluated with a written and verbal assessment unique to Mathnasium to deliver a customized learning plan. Based on the results, Mathnasium develops an individually tailored program designed to address each student’s specific needs and close any educational gaps they may have so they can jump ahead and be ready for advanced math challenges. 

Students engage with their instructors in a unique combination of mental, verbal, visual, tactile, and written exercises. Basic math concepts and skills are specifically designed to help students build number sense. Mathnasium’s proven technique does more than just meet state math standards; it surpasses the recommendations of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics and the Common Core State Standards. 

Instructors also help students understand their homework as part of each session and can prepare your child for school tests, as well as standardized tests such as the California High School Exit Exam, SAT, ACT and ISEE. 

If math is a problem, Mathnasium can solve it. At Mathnasium, students grow more excited and confident about math—and their grades reflect that. For students who already excel in math, the sky’s the limit. All students will discover that doors open to them by being proficient in math and how math can be applied to interesting areas such as computer science, biology, and psychology. 

By giving your child a firm foundation—and confidence—in math, Mathnasium can unlock the potential for continued educational success in the future. 

Mathnasium
Dana Point • 949-240-6284 • Mathnasium.com/danapoint
Ladera Ranch • 949-429-3020 • Mathnasium.com/laderaranch
Laguna Niguel • 949-360-6284 • Mathnasium.com/lagunaniguel
San Clemente • 949-481-6284 • Mathnasium.com/sanclemente

Studies have shown that children attending preschool do significantly better academically, developmentally and socially 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 & Kindergarten was established over 25 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 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, and emotionally. Marina View’s vision is to create a love of learning in children that lasts a lifetime. 

Marina View offers a rigorous academic curriculum that exceeds the California Core Standards in the Junior K and K classes and includes formal Spanish instruction. Mrs. Morey has also embarked on creating a sense of community amongst the parents by having events at the school such as the annual “Back to School Night,” 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 2023 as well! 

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, Dance, 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 & Kindergarten
25301 Sweet Meadow Lane | Laguna Niguel
949.249.8687 • marinaviewpreschool.com

Capistrano Unified is continually innovating and adding hands-on based learning to prepare our students from preschool through high school to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing world. This school year, the district expanded its iCan labs to elementary schools as an extension of the current middle and high school STEM Career Paths. Implemented at every elementary, these labs lead K-5 students to discover possible future careers through innovative, 21st century tech tools that engage all students in their educational experience. 

Through CUSD’s joint partnership with College and Career Advantage (CCA), students can explore 31 career pathways, beginning in elementary school. CCA provides high-quality Career Technical Education to grades K-12. Subject areas include Robotics, 3D Printing and Fabrication, Coding, Engineering, Biotechnology, Fire Science, Actors Repertory, Aviation, Automotive Technology, and more. 

To ensure graduates have multiple opportunities for college, military, career readiness, and independent living, CUSD places a strong emphasis on the integration of student well-being and emotional support, supportive and collaborative learning, and cultural diversity. School counselors and psychologists support social, emotional, behavior, and academics to ensure that every learner can be successful. Counselors provide academic, college and personal counseling on all campuses. 

PUBLIC EDUCATION EXCELLENCE 

• California Distinguished and National Blue-Ribbon Schools 
• 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 

ELEMENTARY

• Class size reduction 
• Full and Half-Day Preschool Programs (Ages 3-5) 
• Transitional and Full-day Kindergarten 
• Spanish and Mandarin Language Immersion (Beginning in Preschool) 
• Award-winning TK-12 general music, instrumental & choral instruction 
• Gifted and Advanced Learners (GATE) 

SECONDARY

• College and Career Advantage Partnership 
• High School Specialized Academies 
• College @ Capo: College credit courses taught by Saddleback College faculty on high school campuses 
• Futureology helps students navigate the college & career track 
• International Baccalaureate Programs 
• Advanced Placement Courses 
• Career Technical Education (CTE) Labs 
• FIRST® Robotics: FTC and FRC Competition Teams 

Capistrano Unified School District (CUSD)
33122 Valle Road | San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
949.234.9200 • capousd.org