OK, so as many well know, I'm not living in my hometown anymore. Bailed for the Bay Area, and when…read moreI was down to my last few days in San Diego County, I started to get very nostalgic. Between going away parties and work responsibilities, I spent time visiting the places I'd encountered along my life's path that made ol' Ruggy the man he is today. Some of those places include: -My little league baseball field -The Tubs in La Mesa -The house in O.B. where I lost my virginity -The original 91X studio location on Pacific Highway (well, maybe the TJ studio was the real OG) -My first apartment after moving away from home in Bankers Hill -Lips -Fallbrook High School So, essentially, hot tub parties, 17-second one night stands, smacking baseballs and high school has helped shape me into the Ruggeford H. Joesten that (some of) you love so dearly. Well, at least the Ruggeford H. Joesten that my parents love, I suppose.... After visiting my grandparents in Fallbrook, I couldn't help but remember my high school days. I grew up about 1/2 mile from the school, and after being home schooled for my entire life, I decided that high school was the time to spread my wings. So, really, my first experience with public schooling was 9th grade. Talk about a complete nightmare, huh? It's easy to bag on our small avocado laden town, but I really can't imagine growing up anywhere else. The stoners, burnouts and bums I've kept in contact with hated Fallbrook High, but they all turned out to be weed salesmen, tow truck drivers and squeegee supervisors at Ten's in North Park. The people I know that really appreciated Fallbrook turned out pretty well, though. It's really like a small, Midwest farming town that happens to be 25 minutes away from the beach. A pretty cool mix, if you ask me. After walking through the closed campus like a total chester last Friday, I can't help but remember playing baseball on the bitchin' baseball field, smoking cigs by the handball courts, parking illegally in the teachers parking area (sorry) when nothing else was available, rolling into school 45 minutes late, then cooking myself breakfast with Mr. Koch in cooking class every first and second period in my senior year, and more. It sounds like I was a complete asshole, but I considered some of the school's enforcement officers and teachers friends, so somehow, I always got away with those shenanigans unscathed. The teachers at Fallbrook were classic. I strolled past Mr. Port's classroom, Mrs. Hellams old digs, Mr. Rupp's room (even though I despised that dude), Mr. Howard's room, and a few others. I've actually kept in touch with a few teachers from my high school days, which has to tell you something about the individuals making this school what it is. I even remember Lolo, the gangster security guard that kept shits on lock. He was quite the character. When you're 17 or 18 years old, it's pretty standard to ask your parents why the hell they decided to move to Fallbrook. But after almost a decade of being away, I can't tell you how much I'd love to return someday. There's literally nothing going on in that town... and when I've gotten sick of the hustle and bustle of city life, that's exactly how I'll like it.

save yo kids, there's other high schools out there....there are some REALLY awesome schools that…read morethey can go to, some of the teachers are high-key mean. my teacher got mad at me for breathing and made me move to a different desk.

When I read some of the Yelp reviews for Potter Junior High, I was nervous to send my daughter for…read more7th grade but after one year there, I am happy to share that it is a really wonderful little school. My daughter's teachers were ALL wonderful - kind, passionate about kids and their subject(s), engaged in the process with the right amount of authoritativeness to keep kids in their seats and doing the work. The admin team is VERY strong, led by the new principal Dr Ramirez, his VPs Mrs Taylor and Mrs Jessica and the entire support staff is top notch. I think the student experience is deeply effected by how involved and supported they are by their family. Obviously this can be tough when parents have to work multiple jobs and juggle lots of kids - which is the case for many at Potter but I think the staff is really great at making sure all students get the support they need. On to Fallbrook High School next!

Very nice junior high school in the town of Fallbrook. The staff work very hard to provide the best…read moreexperience for the kids.

I absolutely love Living Waters Christian Fellowship. I went here from 2014-2018 (during the four…read moreyears I was in college) and I always felt welcomed. The church serves donuts and coffee at 9:30 a.m. before their Sunday service- which starts at 10:00. There is a nursery as well as Sunday school for children to attend during the main service if they want to. I've recently moved out of state and try to visit LWCF whenever I am visiting my family in Fallbrook!

I read the information on the Stepping Stones website, and it looks incredibly encouraging! I'm…read morehoping by the time my youngest son is ready to exit 8th grade, his current Charter School will have a high school option, but if not, it is great to know places like this exist in the local community. They also collaborate with a large number of nationally accredited charter schools across the state. The varied options I mentioned earlier include homeschooling, independent study, and blended learning opportunities - I am so happy to see schools joining this model of education...it's really proving to be the best way to educate children for successful futures instead of churning them out like a grim scene from The Wall... In their own words: "Our focus is personalized education for each student. The best way to change tomorrow is to invest in our children today... One Step at a Time." Yes. More of this, please!!! One thing that particularly stands out is that they are community-centered learning institutions. This has a twofold effect - they promote success in academics by nurturing a connection with the community (usually through volunteerism or other efforts), and they also partner their students with successful to make sure they achieve the steps necessary to succeed from the time they start Kindergarten until the time they choose a career. That's smart educating! Through their network of partner schools, they can tailor a student's education to help keep them engaged, participating, and give them the tools they're going to need for future success in college, university, or trade/vocational school programs (again, education works different for everyone, and it looks like these people understand that!!!) Their website uses the word "investment" regarding their students, and I can't day how much I love that...I wish more schools treated education like an investment in our children and the future of not only the individual, but the community and society as a whole. They teach children to be self-paced and directed; and also foster a sense of independent thinking and those who can not only use critical thinking to solve problems, but also communicate in whichever way is best suited to their own personality and style. Since I know many people who communicate through electronic devices, I like to hear the emphasis placed on communication and not "speaking." There is a big difference. These folks seem like they "get it!" Their main goal appears to be simple: to help students of all ages and stages to "learn how to learn." I love that phrase! They know that many students don't have a place in our rather drab and outdated school model, with endless tests and redundant, utterly uninteresting and non-dynamic curriculum. In addition to general school/high school academics, these students also apparently get to discover their own potential career path; and this could include technical courses, visual/performing arts, apprenticeships (similar programs currently exist in some European countries) and service learning projects - I've done Service Learning Projects in my own college; and they're enhancements to the curriculum you're already learning, it's really great foundation building work! This was one of the things that stuck out at me while I was reading about their program... apparently, Stepping Stones also offers two years of college at no cost for those who qualify. This could just be help filing out the FASFA FOR Federal Student Aid (which not everyone will qualify for, depending on how much their parents make), but could potentially also include help finding grants, scholarships, and alternative ways to fund tertiary education beyond high school. :) My son's current charter school has been a godsend, but now that we've been able to dodge the proverbial "bullet" that was a nightmarish middle school experience (it only lasted a month, thankfully!), and he's now fully included in his school. There are no segregated classes for special education, but he receives as much support as he needs (including a dedicated aide that the school hand picked for him and hired after he enrolled), so I cannot sing the praises of charter schools enough. His behavior is better, self-confidence has skyrocketed, and he is now taking initiative to work both on classwork and chores at home! But he's in 6th Grade now, and the school he's at currently only goes to 8th. I'm hoping they'll add an option for high school in the next few years, but if not...I am very pleased to know there are alternatives that match our current setup available within close proximity. I have friends that need this type of opportunity for their own children, so I'm passing this on to them too. If only I'd known what was out there when my 21 year old was being pushed through the school system..."No Child Left Behind" just means they're going to end up with many adults that are left without...because they never caught up...

We love attending Saint Jeanne! We love the community, and really value the education & morals that…read moreare taught! We will be attending from preschool all the way to high school

For over a decade, our children have been part of the SJDLS community, and it has been an…read moreextraordinary journey. From the moment we stepped through those school gates, we knew we had found something truly special. Dedicated Teachers and Staff The heart of any great school lies in its educators, and SJDLS boasts an exceptional team of teachers and staff. Their commitment to nurturing young minds goes beyond the classroom. They inspire, challenge, and guide our children, fostering not only academic growth but also character development. We've witnessed firsthand the tireless efforts they put into creating a positive and supportive learning environment. Academic Excellence At SJDLS, excellence is the standard. Our children have thrived academically, thanks to the rigorous curriculum and personalized attention they receive. The teachers tailor their teaching methods to suit each student's learning style, ensuring that no child is left behind. As parents, we appreciate the emphasis on critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills--the very qualities that will serve them well in their future endeavors. Values and Character Formation Education isn't just about textbooks and exams; it's about shaping compassionate, responsible individuals. SJDLS excels in this aspect. Our kids learn not only math, science, and literature but also the values of respect, faith, and caring. These lessons extend beyond the classroom walls, influencing their interactions with peers, family, and the wider community. We're proud to see our children grow into empathetic and socially conscious young adults. A Bright Future Ahead Our oldest daughter, now on the cusp of her senior year, has blossomed at SJDLS. Her 4.2 GPA reflects not only her academic prowess but also her unwavering dedication. As for our son, a freshman, he's already making his mark. We're confident that the solid foundation laid by SJDLS will propel them toward any college they choose. Their dreams are within reach, and we owe it all to this remarkable institution. A Blessing to Our Family and Community SJDLS isn't just a school; it's a blessing. It's where friendships are forged, talents are discovered, and futures are shaped. As parents, we couldn't ask for more. Our gratitude extends not only to the faculty but also to the entire SJDLS community--the parents, volunteers, and fellow students who make this place feel like home.

The school is very good and secure, but it follows a modified 4x4 block schedule that divides the…read moreschool year into 2 semesters. Students take 4 courses during the first semester, and the other four during the second semester. It sounds better than it works. If your child is planning on taking AP classes, he/she may get AP classes in fall and forget the material by the time she has to take AP tests in spring. This sheduling also means less time spent on each subject comparing to the schools with a regular schedule. Students are rushed to get all material covered. If you missed a day or two, it's very difficult to catch up. In regular schools, students take six, seven, or eight periods a day throughout the entire school year, and take their AP tests in spring.

This is a great school! We love the 4x4 schedule and our daughter is doing amazing there. There are…read moremany paths to choose from and fun electives like their Steel Pan program. The curriculum sets the pace for college bound kids but it can be intense and not for every student.

Went to my daughters away volleyball game here today and had a poor experience. Invited my mother…read moreto come watch the game and she was denied entry because she only had cash to get in which wasn't accepted. They wouldn't let her even in to ask me to use my card to pay for her. She tried to call me but the cell service is terrible and I have Verizon. Staff made her feel unwelcome and embarrassed. Do better Great Oaks.

Yes Greg school spirit love the colors and I can tell you hi school is way better working…read moreenvironment there's so many kids and diversity that I feel like you're in a college campus

Willow Tree and all of the kind, caring, and talented staff has and will ever more have a special…read moreplace in our hearts. Traditional schooling was just not an option for our family and we feel so SO SO grateful that the staff here has worked diligently to provide a school that offers a more tailored and down-to-earth educational approach. What we really appreciate is how many instruction options WT offers, you can choose from 4 days a week full day, or 4 half days, or 2 full or half days. But what we love the best is the overall knowing that our child is well looked after and generally loved as an individual all the while receiving an education that values the environment and the overall well-being of children and connecting to the two through meaningful and relevant activities in the classroom. If you are looking for an alternative to traditional schooling please know your child will be well cared for here and will actually love learning!! We LOVE Willow tree!!!!

My children have been attending Willow Tree for the last six years. I have been so pleased with the…read moreeducation my children have received. My daughter graduated last year and has been well prepared to head into high school. My son has been a student since the first grade and has been completely held and nurtured as a learner and a child. The teachers are well trained, the curriculum is rich and diverse, and the leadership team is responsive and caring. It really says a lot about the community that it has stayed cohesive through many challenges over the years with their location and the pandemic. Bethany and her staff are true beacons of strength and care.

Who knew applying to preschool and elementary gives the same pressure and stress as finding a…read morecollege? I'm not saying we are a Rancho Christian lifer, but I will say our experience in both the preschool and elementary school have been positive. After researching, talking to parents, and finally touring a couple of the Temecula schools, we enjoyed the fact that Rancho provided an environment that felt safe, enrichment classes that we felt were important (such as the arts), and also included a space for our kids to grow academically and spiritually. *PRESCHOOL REVIEW* We initially toured the preschool, since my daughter was not yet potty trained (and in order for her to proceed in her age level preschool, she would need to be fully potty trained). This wasn't entirely alarming since most preschools in the area have a "mandatory" deadline, which honestly can be stressful on parents. Both my kids "eased" into it; I've always believed that potty training should be a gentle transition and encouraged, not pushed. What set Rancho apart was the partnership that the admission team provided with us, recommending she start in the summer enrolled in the "Little Tots" program, which would provide her in a 3 month setting that eased her into the routine. Ms. Annalise was an amazing summer school teacher. She was in tune with what our daughter needed (especially since she was switching childcare). During the fall, she switched to Ms. Faith - another amazing teacher who also provided a safe potty environment. Soon enough, she was transitioned over to her grade level class with Ms. Jem and Ms. Shilpi. Three smooth transitions over the course of a year speaks volumes of the staff. She loved all of her teachers, and the app that the school uses - Brightwheel, provided a snapshot of their potty, eating and pix/videos for the day. The only thing I wish is that preschool and elementary somehow used the same platform to streamline communication and forms. Apps I had to download for the school are: -Blackbaud: for all application school forms, tuition/billing schedules, etc -Brightwheel: preschool only app for updates/communication -Band: Elementary school app for updates and communication Pros and Cons: Pros: -Rancho is an excellent communicator via Brightwheel/IG/FB/Email. It's easy to get a hold of someone via phone/Brightwheel, they are responsive which is important as a parent! -After a certain time in the morning, the entrance on the side of the school (closest to the preschool is closed), you will need to go to the front of the school and pass the guard check-in gate. I personally love this since there are measures in place to check any guest that comes in after a certain time. -Each parent/guardian is provided with a check in code. This is used to sign in and out of preschool at the front office. -Great school events and staff -Love that our daughter gets to see her brother (who attends elementary) at some of the school events! -Chapel: our daughter looks forward to chapel Wednesdays. Every preschooler has a blue chapel shirt; the service is age appropriate, while providing them with a spiritual baseline. Cons: -The exit gate isn't always closely monitored. There typically is staff around the area to keep an eye on anyone exiting (along with any kids trying to get out), but this could be better. -Summer school logistics was a little chaotic. And this comes from being a first time Rancho parent. We were unsure of where to go for early drop-off or late pickup. -Preschool feels siloed, I wish there was more cohesion between Preschool, Elementary and High School. Overall, we love the fact that our daughter has had a good experience with both the staff and her classmates. We feel that our voices are heard if there is ever an issue, and that for the most part administration is also visible and pleasant to communicate with! Will post our experience with elementary soon!

We had a deeply disappointing experience at this preschool. We chose it because it claimed to be…read morerooted in Christian values and guided by the fruits of the Spirit--but sadly, our time there reflected none of that. The environment lacked warmth, compassion, and consistency. Communication was poor, and it often felt like the staff were overwhelmed or simply going through the motions. Since leaving, our child is like a completely different person--happier, more confident, and finally excited to go to school each day. His new school is everything we had hoped for: it's run with care, competence, and a true passion for early childhood education. The teachers there clearly love what they do and it shows. I wouldn't recommend this preschool to families looking for a genuinely nurturing, faith-based foundation for their little ones.

This school is excellent in many ways. Communication with parents and updates are timely. My…read moredaughter enjoys attending this school.

We are extremely happy with Live Oak Elementary School we're my grandson is attending. My daughter…read moreis always kept up to dates with events happening and we have loved both his teachers. Keep up the great work Live Oak.