Our two daughter have gone to San Joaquin since first grade and we have been extremely happy with…read morethe small community feel and extra attention we get from the teachers, staff, and principal. Our kids know all the staff and they are very welcoming and friendly. They know all the kids by name which is so important. I highly recommend this school if you are considering it.

I recomend this school because I was a former student there and it is an amazing school there is…read morenothing wrong with it its amazing and the teachers, staff, librarian, and principle. It is a safe place and the events are fun and most children who went to the school ahve become succesful.

My child was sexually assaulted by another student on school grounds. The principal did nothing…read more Years later we are still dealing with the offenders continued harassment in retaliation after our complaints were filed. The school and district are hiding their complacency and that the whole thing was ignored by them when it happened. They have been trying to cover up their lack of action to keep the offender away from my child ever since. The principal even put the offender in my child's class again. The only option available is to punish my child by taking her away from her friends and her school by moving her to another district so she never has to be put in class with the offender again. And so the never ending harassment of my child and her friends by the offender ends. The bullying policies only protect the school and its inept and incompetent staff. Not the victim. This is not a safe place for your children while this principal is in charge. We tried, the system is broken, this district is broken. My child has been damaged and the only thing we can do is sell our forever home we planned to raise our family in and move

As parents, we all seek the best educational and developmental environments for our children…read more After 3 years in public school, we realized that both of our kids were getting lost in the large classes and needed a small school environment to thrive. We sought out a school that with small classes, stimulating curriculum, engaged teachers, and a supportive social environment. Vandamme Academy has exceeded on all levels - and we only wish we had enrolled sooner! The small classes and overall school environment are what first brought us to Vandamme. We love that each grade level has only one class with roughly 15 students. The homeroom/subject matter class structure makes a huge impact in that it allows students to form relationships with multiple adults (and role models) at school. As we approach the end of our first year at Vandamme, we have seen how much maturity and confidence our kids have gained through these relationships. It is also clear that the teachers truly get to know each student's learning style, personality, strengths, and areas of need. The rigorous academic program is thoughtfully designed by Ms. Vandamme and the teaching staff in a way that challenges and inspires students. We love that the teachers specialize in subjects that they are passionate about. In doing so, they pass on their interest onto the students, so that students become interested and engaged in each subject. Just last week, I was blown away when my fourth grader asked to go to the library for books on Shakespeare's works. Beyond academics, we love Vandamme's positive and inclusive social environment. Students seem to come from diverse backgrounds and neighborhoods throughout our county, and the school staff does a great job of modeling kindness, inclusion, and respect. I've had the privilege of volunteering at two school events and chaperoning one field trip this year. In all instances, I've been so impressed with how responsible and respectful all of the students are. The food is also wonderful! While we don't order hot lunch every day, my kids always look forward to Chef Faustino's healthy and delicious creations. We are so grateful to Ms. Vandamme and the entire staff for providing a learning environment that not only enables ours kids to excel academically, but also build character and confidence.

VDA is an absolute dream come true. We are going into our fourth year at VanDamme Academy, and our…read morefamily has continued to be impressed. Our two children have very different personalities. Our daughter went into Kindergarten at VDA from a Montessori preschool. Two years later, our son went into Kinder at VDA from a Reggio Emilia-inspired preschool. Very different preschools. They both transitioned smoothly into VanDamme, are both thriving, and are both genuinely excited to go to school in the mornings. Their progress in reading, math, vocabulary, critical thinking and problem solving from the beginning of the school year to the end is incredible. Miss Beach, the Kindergarten teacher, adjusts her teaching style to meet the individual child's needs. If we had a hard drop off, she would send a picture or two of our child letting us know they were doing better and settling in. If our son couldn't sit still for paper and pencil work at the desk, she would invite him to work with hands-on materials on the floor. She pays such close attention and gets to know each student so well, she identified that our daughter might need to have her vision checked... and it turned out, she needed glasses! That feeling of peace in my heart that our children are at the right school started in Kindergarten and has held steadfast. There is a melting pot of cultures and backgrounds here, which is a huge benefit. Other families here have become our friends. It's everything we hoped for and more. Our children developing a passion for learning, the curriculum, the community. If you are looking for the best education within K-8 in Orange County, welcome to VanDamme Academy.

We started this year in TK, so we have been in this school for about 6 months now. I have to say,…read morewe love it. Now let me just start by saying, this school is different and I truly feel lucky that we got in. Also, I have to say this school might not be attractive to every parent ok.... Please take the intake seriously, because you could be taking a lottery spot for someone who truly wants to be in a Waldorf school. How would I describe our experience so far ? If you or your kid loves the outdoors (sun, rain, moon, stars, ocean) things that grow and live in gardens, nature walks, learning how to care for Mother Earth, etc. then this is your dream school. If you or your child enjoy playtime in mud, dirt, don't lose your mind over stains, love rain boots, umbrellas, etc. then this is your dream school. If you or your child enjoy all things magical/wholesome make-believe, like fairy tears, knights, puppets etc. then this is your dream school. Ok I think you get the point :). Reminder , this is a review of my experience in the kindergarten program... where my child learned how to write her name, craft, knit, cut vegetables, set the table, do chores, sing songs, explore, pick up worms, and much more. I like and admire our teacher and her aid. They are extremely experienced and are really good with the kids. I don't need to be the teachers best friend, I just need to hear from my child that she loves her and is excellent with the kids, that's all that matters to me, and she is! The school is small, which I love, it feels old fashioned in all the good ways... like in ways that will remind you of your childhood school days. It is truly a Waldorf school, so make sure you research that and know what you are signing up for. I love it for our family, I personally couldn't imagine my child anywhere else. It's a little gem and I'm so glad it exists. Also, there are things they ask for like, no Disney/characters on clothes, no fancy nails, hair color, makeup, stuff that could be competitive/distracting and I'm sooooo grateful for that. They really want them to have this beautiful slow childhood. There are also so many resources for the parents! So if this all sounds lovely to you and your family - Best wishes and good luck on lottery day!!

Journey School has changed our family's life. Our daughter was feeling shut down and crushed by her…read moreprevious first grade experience. The warmth and style of learning provided at Journey has given her back her joy. She's heading into second grade now, and says she someday wants to be a teacher at Journey herself. Our son likes to compare his kindergarten experience to his preschool experience and says the old school was the "mean" school. The love between the students and teachers is evident. It truly feels like a community. I also appreciate the staff and administration that are open to new ideas and continual improvement. I too have learned so many positive things as a parent at this school. I wish all kids could have the opportunity to learn in an environment like Journey.

I went here in the late 70's , great teachers & staff, from the Los alisos Jr high, wow memories,…read more anyone else went to Cresent bay in the summer

This school and the staff members here are so awesome. My son has been attending speech therapy…read morehere for the last year, and he LOVES going. He talks about his teachers all the time! The speech therapists here are SO kind and friendly and really work with him in a FUN way. He's improved his speech so much, that he met his yearly goal a few months early! Thank you so much Miss Robyn and Miss Heather and the other loving therapists that have been working with him. You guys are the best!

This school is an excellent choice for your children if you want them to be in a Christian…read moreenvironment and receiving a well-rounded academic education. The teachers and administrators are dedicated to providing a positive learning environment. The class sizes are small, typically about 20 per class. My children started in kindergarten and are now in middle school at AVCS. They have advanced academically and socially, and they are well-prepared for high school honors classes. My children have also gotten to participate in band, orchestra, drama, art, choir, track, cheer-leading, and volleyball. AVCS offers many other sports and extracurricular activities as well. I am thankful for the Biblical teaching and the commitment to helping my children grow in the knowledge of God and in their personal faith. I also feel good about the Christian morals, values, and positive behaviors that are modeled at this school. You don't get that at the public schools. I highly recommend making the commitment to put your children here. The investment is one of the best you can make for your children's foundation in life.

Our two children attended Aliso Viejo Christian School for a combined total of 13 years. It was a…read morewonderful experience for them and our family The teachers were very hands on and worked closely with the parents to ensure success for the children. Our family made relationships that will certainly last a lifetime.

We are so grateful for the wonderful experience our son - Robin had at this school. Mrs. Anderson…read morehas been an absolutely amazing kindergarten teacher -- caring, patient, encouraging, and truly passionate about teaching. She made our son feel safe, loved, and excited to learn every single day. We have seen tremendous growth in his confidence, academics, and social skills this year. One thing that really stands out about this school is how genuine and personal the environment feels. It is incredible how the teachers and staff remember every child's name as well as the parents. From morning drop-off to pick-up, they always greet families with warmth and kindness, which makes everyone feel welcomed and valued. That level of care and attention truly means so much to parents. The entire school staff has been supportive and dedicated throughout the year. It is clear that the teachers genuinely care about each child's development and well-being, not just academically but emotionally too. Thank you, Mrs. Anderson and the entire school team, for making kindergarten such a memorable and meaningful experience for our family. We will always appreciate the love, dedication, and positivity you bring to your students every day.

Miss Basrur, Miss Dokovic, Miss Frost, Miss Anderson, Miss Izabel, and Miss Natalie have been such…read moreincredible teachers for our two kids who attend Stratford. The entire school staff are so dedicated to the kids and families at Stratford in helping them succeed and become leaders. We could not be happier with this amazing school community who values every child and family that walks through their doors!! We highly recommend this school and are so excited to be part of this wonderful community!!!

This school is absolutely AMAZING! We live in Costa Mesa and the drive to Laguna Woods is worth it…read more(although I did dread the drive for the first 2 weeks). We were happy with our past public school and weren't shopping for a new school until COVID-19 closed in-person learning. Our kids now write in cursive and public speak. They read classic books and study art history! We are truly blown away every week with the information our kids are learning and retaining, not to mention what we are learning as parents...How many of you know how many countries are in Africa and their location?!? That would be my 2nd grader. States in Australia anyone?? Just my 4th grader! I can brag on and on about the curriculum and all the knowledge my kids have, but you're probably thinking, "that's great lady, but how long are your kids studying to achieve such greatness?". The answer is simple, give or take an hour a day. Right?!? shocking! With our 20 min drive home, the kids will start their homework in the car and will even quiz each other! #winning. I have no concerns about new math being taught or a Sexx Ed curriculum creeping in a book or a discussion. I appreciate the open communication I have with our teachers and the staff. I appreciate a progress report when our kids are having a challenging time on a concept, a playground spat, or praise. If you are reading this review then you are shopping around for a school...I highly encourage a tour! My husband and I said, "only one year of private school". Three weeks in and my husband and I agreed we would continue another year and by mid October our kids asked if they could continue to attend Geneva till eight grade. Check it out yourself, I promise you won't be disappointed. FYI both our kids learning abilities were very different at public school and we were well aware of the strengths/weaknesses with both children. Since the Geneva School both our kids are thriving.

Excellent and biblically centered school. Very organized and creative teachers who teach subjects…read morewith depth. Low student to teacher ratio means each child receives the guidance he or she needs. I have visited many public and private schools in Southern Orange County and The Geneva School has impressed me the most by far.

Our experience at Fairmont has been exceptional. The teachers, staff, and administration are truly…read moreinvested in my child's education and her growth as a young learner. Small class sizes and leveled learning have enabled my child to gain confidence in her learning abilities. Though it is a small and newer school, it allows for a lower student to teacher ratio, giving our kindergartener more confidence when asking questions, engage in group activities, and opportunities for one-on-one time with the teachers. She absolutely LOVES Fairmont! The administration is open minded and think outside the box to make a successful educational experience for the students and parents. Fairmont is committed to the whole child. They teach value lessons, character building, communication and leadership skills. We've seen tremendous growth in from beginning of the school year to end. The teachers are passionate about seeing their students succeed. They are so great about sharing moments of pride they see within your child - their good behaviors and achievements; and they know the importance of getting the parents involved should an issue arise, and do it in a very respectful, approachable manner. Great team - great school!

We've been here for three years and the teachers are irresponsible and rude we do not recommend…read morethis business and when we moved to a new school 1 day was better than the 3 years at this school