My daughter completed her first year at pillars academy and we are blown away at how much her Arabic and knowledge of Islam has grown and improved. Aside from Islamic studies, they also offer the traditional math, science and English - all NAEYC accredited meaning they have met rigorous standards essentially meaning Pillars provides a high quality early learning experience for children. The teachers and staff are wonderful. They greet and walk each child to class and you can really see how much they care for your children especially with the big hugs hello or goodbye. Overall we've really enjoyed our experience here. My daughter is now back in session for kindergarten and we have nothing but good things to report back. Thanks Pillars for providing such a loving, nurturing and educational Pre-k/Kindergarten experience! read more

READ THIS BEFORE YOU ENROLL!!! When I first found this school, I was happy that my 3.5-year-old son would not only attend preschool, but also learn Islamic studies. He is very social and has been attending childcare since he was 1.5 years old. After moving to a new state, he missed being around other children and was very excited to start. However, from the very beginning, our experience was disappointing. Staff were not welcoming during drop-offs and pick-ups. Initially, they complained about his uniform (which we purchased immediately), and later about his shoes. I explained that my son has sensory issues and only feels comfortable wearing Crocs. Despite this, they insisted we follow their strict policy. After much effort, my son eventually agreed to wear sneakers. In a very short time, three serious incidents happened: He fell and injured his arm -- at least this was reported properly. He came home with scratches on his face and neck. When I asked, the teacher simply said my son was still learning about personal space and they didn't see what happened. The most heartbreaking: I picked him up to find him crying alone in the bathroom. The teacher was across the room and had left him there alone. When I asked my son what happened, he told me the teacher hit him on the head. I immediately addressed this with the director and assistant. At first, they denied everything and claimed a student hit him (even though the student was asleep at the time). At the follow-up meeting with the director and teacher, their explanation was shocking. The teacher said my son woke up crying, so she sent him to the bathroom without even trying to comfort him. Leaving a crying child alone in the bathroom is unacceptable and dangerous. When I asked why no one comforted him or tried to find out why he was crying, the answer was "she had to take care of other children." My son does not usually cry like this and does not make up stories. Regardless of who hit him, it is clear that he was left alone, distressed, and ignored, which is unacceptable in any childcare setting, especially an NAEYC accredited center. Other concerns: Poor communication: No daily or weekly reports, no photos, and they do not allow parents into the classroom at pickup time. Teacher-student ratio issue: The teacher herself told me she was alone with 15-16 kids. For ages 3-4, NAEYC requires a ratio of 1:10. Low-quality curriculum: Only 30 minutes of Islamic studies and the rest is mostly coloring worksheets. There is little focus on meaningful, process-based learning. This has been the worst experience I have had in the U.S. with early childhood education. I do not recommend this school to any parent who values a warm, inclusive environment where children and parents feel respected and engaged. This is not a place where children feel safe, supported, or happy to go every day. read more

Pillars Academy - "Welcome" is not about this place ! - Preschools Near Me - Mission Viejo, California

This school changed my kid's personality to the better. she grew in 3 months way more than she did in a year & half in other schools. she's confident. she can make friends. she's not shy to interact with the community anymore ! she also finally loves Arabic and prefers arabic songs over English. through out all the 3 schools she's been to, she only misses Pillars and their activities Thank You read more

We love Pillars Academy! As parents, we know our kids are safe, engaging in things that interest them, learning basic academics, expanding social skills, building character, AND receiving a fantastic Islamic and Arabic foundation. We started in the thick of Covid and we feel every precaution was taken in keeping the Pillars community safe and healthy while balancing the needs and abilities of its young students. While they are at school, we are sent photos of them throughout the day learning, playing, making friends, and singing the cutest little songs. Some academic, some very silly nonsense. Their teachers are phenomenal! Pillars is NAYEC accredited, so we were expecting a certain level of academic rigor, but our expectations have been far surpassed. Our child in the preschool program can read sight words, do simple arithmetic, knows the Arabic alphabet, and is building on Arabic vocabulary. They do an in depth science experiment once or twice a week. The art projects are adorable, and they're so complex! Pillars is definitely intellectually challenging and preparing them for elementary school. Our other child goes to the toddler program, does more play based learning, and also does art projects! We're very impressed with how detailed the toddler teacher is with giving us a summary of things that happened throughout the day (eating, napping, potty, etc.) We are a blended Muslim/Catholic family and we're so fortunate that our kids can learn about their heritage and be part of an Islamic community. Ms. Amani, the dedicated Islamic and Arabic teacher, is awesome. She teaches the kids in an age appropriate way and really connects with them on their level. We love how friendly and inviting everyone is! Ms. Zubeda, the director, is always available to answer any questions/concerns/thoughts we have, no matter how big or small. She works hard to make the school run so effectively! In a year of uncertainty, we are so fortunate to be part of the Pillars community. Our kids love Pillars, and we love it too!! read more

See all

We have had a wonderful experience with Pillars Academy. Our son did TK and is now finishing up kindergarten with them, and we could not recommend them more! The teachers have been amazing, and the environment is welcoming and loving. It was perfect for our son and we highly recommend! read more

Every morning, my children are happy to go to school. The children feel like they are part of a big family. I am grateful to Pillars Academy's staff. read more

Pillars Academy is a great school! One of the best I have ever seen. They have everything my family and I needed: a very convenient location, clean and safe environment, exceptional teachers and superb staff. Fantastic communication between the teachers and students, and teachers and parents. If you are looking for a private school in OC, with islamic studies and Arabic language, this is the one. English, math and science are not neglected or taken less seriously. My kids learned more in Pillars pre school, then later in a public school first grade. Unfortunately it is only up to first grade. We all are missing Pillars, especially my kids. read more

It was a big mistake to sign my son for the summer camp with that people they have really poor communications and can't do anything right. They didn't teach my son Arabic as I told. If you really care about your kid don't sign him in this please my 4 years old was miserable when he went to this place. It is more like daycare not school. read more

I'm the luckiest that Pillars Academy have a toddler class this year. My daughter loves the school and her teacher Mrs.Runa and she is really learning good skills and enjoying her time there. Next year they will have an infant class.. I cant wait to send my second daughter too read more

See all

It's an amazing place the dedication and involvement is phenomenal, my kid just loves it, and I notice his advancement right away They managed to strike the balance between Islamic culture and top modern education concepts Thanks Management and staff you are the best read more

My 3 year old attends preschool there and it has been a wonderful experience. The preschool teacher is so loving but also is able to direct and teach the kids well. My daughter loves her and her approach. I feel comfortable leaving my daughter there knowing she is in a good environment. The other teachers seem great too, as well as the director. You get a good feeling knowing your little one is learning but also safe, happy, and loved. I have also dropped my son off at their new infant care program. Every time I've picked him up, he's smiling and calm. This last time he even went back into the teacher's arms after coming to me for a moment. The infant room is very calming, colorful, and filled with great toys and books. I'd highly recommend the infant program. read more

My 17 month old has been going to the infants class 3 days a week now for a Month or so and she is always happy and loves it. We love the teachers and whole structure and environment. Definitely recommend read more

Worst experience ever for me and my child :( very very upset. They didnt know how to manage the class and kids. They will ignore some kids. It was a failure. It was a big mistake and my kid didnt learn anything. They dont have enough experience to deal with every kid. They will just complain without no plan for every kid. The only good thing is the Arabic and Islamic teacher. read more

Haw is academy? This is not academic . They cannot deal with children and do not evaluate behavior for children who have no experience

Pillars Academy is an EXCEPTIONAL school. My son attended the school for three years until he graduated from KG. He had an amazing time at school, he loves to go to school every day and looks forward to spending time with his teachers and classmates. Our experience is nothing but amazing. Our school developed a strong Muslim American identity. He is proud of his Islamic heritage and feels comfortable practicing Islam. His command of Arabic is amazing, his memorization of the Quran beyond satisfactory. Teachers go over and above to teach their students, they put the students' best interest and well-being as their focus. The curriculum is carefully developed and the teaching methods cater to each child's level and capacity. The school director is very cooperative, a wonderful leader, and a skilled director. She is a good liaison between parents and teachers and never misses an opportunity to help our son. What a wonderful school! We are sad that this amazing school stops at KG. read more

This is a beautiful school and community where the love for students is palpable. My child enjoys it here and misses her friends when she's away. read more

I really appreciate the hard effort from the teachers and the staff specially at this time of Covid - 19 to keep the kids attached to their school, their teachers and their friends. Adam been with the school for the last two years and he is improving and learning new stuff every day. Thank you so much Ms. Joan which have a full love to the kids like a mom, Ms Amani Jazki allah Kol kheer for every letter from Quran you tech them. read more

Pillars was the best choice we've made for our daughter and soon our little boy. They made sure my daughter was comfortable and also reassured that she's in good hands, considering I've never left her before and this was her first step into the education system. I love the teachers and how they make teaching a fun experience especially teaching them love for Islam and Quran. read more

Good islamic school for learning arabic and quaran. Miss Fayza is one of the best quaran teacher for 3 to 4 years old kids.

My Son is in Pillars for the second year. he attended pre-school and now in PK. We both like it here. It always feels like it's family and all the teachers are friendly, experienced and understanding. I like what he learns in a friendly and safe environment. Totally recommend! read more

My son is in the Infants and Toddlers class at Pillars, and it has been such a positive experience. He clearly loves his teacher-- his face lights up when he sees her and he is excited and happy to be there. He gets lots of love and attention from his teacher, and they do so many fun activities-- from art to music to reading. The class size is small, and he gets all the love and support he needs. He is growing and developing so well, and I know it's due in part to the support he gets there. It has been such a relief to me to find somewhere with such a safe and supportive environment. I am SO glad we chose Pillars. They have made health and safety the top priority throughout the pandemic, and I feel much better knowing that they follow strict guidelines to keep the children there healthy. The school management is responsive and communicates frequently with parents. I really like the school app which allows us to check our son in and out of school, see pictures of him throughout the day, and communicate directly with his teachers. I could not recommend Pillars highly enough. read more

We tried 3 other preschools and this is by far the best. It's almost half the price of the other ones too! The education they provide and the nurturing they give are exceptional. My 3rd child goes there and he's doing better academically and emotionally than his older siblings who went to the other 3 preschools. It is an Islamic preschool, so it might not pop up as an option for everyone, but I certainly recommend it for everyone! We commute all the way from Irvine. That's proof right there! read more

Pillars has been my sons home for the last three years and I can't thank the teachers and staff enough for treating him like their own. My son is happy to go in every day and has a fun and full day with his classmates. The parents and students are great and all very friendly and welcoming. His social skills as well as his academic skills have improved so much. I love Pillars and highly recommend it. read more

I couldn't have asked for a better school. Moved here from LA county & was so critical of every school while I was researching, but fell in love with Pillars Academy the minute I set foot in the school. Very loving and welcoming teachers & staff. It's an outstanding school with the best curriculum. My kids adjusted very well. I could go on and on about this excellent school. They are also NAEYC accredited. read more

My son has been going to Pillars Academy for almost a year now. He's in KG. Pillars Academy is more than just a school; it's a tight knit community of warm and caring teachers, professional and well trained staff and concerned and helpful parents. I've nothing but good things to say about this amazing school, its teachers, staff and concerned parents. I've come to know and appreciate the people who run day to day affairs of this school. I'm very thankful to its teachers who're fully qualified and always giving their utmost so the pupils can excel in academic pursuits and behavioral arena. Pillars Academy is an excellent resource for Muslims of South OC. Besides science, math and English language, my son has been taught good and morally upright behavior and how to perform salat along with Qur'anic and Arabic studies. He loves going to this school and interacting with his teachers and peers. High praise and nothing but the absolute best wishes for the people and teachers of Pillars Academy. read more

I have two of my kids go there. i love the school and the staff. they are extremely dedicated to the well being of my kids. if I have a third one, I will definitely take him/her there. safe, secure, affordable and very professional. I cannot find that anywhere else. read more

My son's Kindergarten Teacher is Awesome!!! She is caring and kind and the school has a lot of fun events that my son enjoys.

This has been my first year with pillars and I've enjoyed seeing my daughter learn new things. Ms runa and all the staff have been wonderful. It definitely requires more parent interaction then other daycare type facilities but after a little while I began to enjoy contributing especially being a working mom. It gives you a sense of involvement that others don't. So far no complaints and I look forward to more years ahead! read more

This is our first academic year with pillars academy. My sone goes to preschool there. His teacher is so loving and nurturing. He loves his school and enjoys his time there. I leave him knowing he is in a safe,loving and family like environment. If you live in the Mission Viejo area or around make sure to check it out. read more

Wonderful school. My daughter adores her teachers. I love the way they teach a bit of everything - basic curriculum, Arabic language and Islamic studies. My pre-schooler comes home every day from school with something new she learned. read more