Like many parents, I read the reviews before enrolling my son at St. Anne's, and I'll admit, I was…read morehesitant. Some of the concerns raised gave me pause. But as we near the end of our third year (currently finishing 4th grade), I feel compelled to share our experience because I'm genuinely glad we chose this school. No school is perfect, and yes, we've had our challenges here and there. But overall, St. Anne's does an outstanding job across many levels. My son is not only thriving academically, he's also genuinely happy. The school strikes a wonderful balance between being firm and structured, while maintaining a warm, positive environment where kids are encouraged and challenged to grow. One of the highlights for us has been the next-level extracurricular offerings and the way St. Anne's integrates experiential learning in every grade level. These hands-on experiences really resonate with the kids and make learning more fun and meaningful. Our first year was a bit rocky, while St. Anne's is a private school and doesn't follow public school IEP protocols, the principal at the time (Mrs. Bournazian) went above and beyond to work with his teacher and me to put support systems in place to help him suceed. When she became Head of School, I was a little nervous that our dynamic might shift, but the transition has been seamless and honestly, the school has continued to flourish under her leadership. We still feel incredibly supported by both the administration and teachers. Speaking of teachers, we've been very fortunate. Each year, my son has had passionate, caring educators who are truly invested in their students' growth. I've heard some concerns among parents about staff turnover, but having experienced two other schools (one public and another well-known private school in OC), I can say this is fairly typical. Teachers move on for all kinds of reasons, what matters more is the consistency of care, and we've always felt that here. With the exception of one long term sub that was not ideal, we've had outstanding teachers from 2nd to 4th grade. The music program is beyond impressive, Mr. Yaple works wonderfully with kids of all ages. Same for the arts program, the school puts on a more professional production than some theater houses in LA. This is a school that provides the opportunity for all kinds of kids to thrive. Socially, like many schools, St. Anne's can feel a bit cliquey at times, but we've also met some truly amazing families, and my son has built wonderful friendships. All in all, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend St. Anne's. I'm grateful we ignored the negative reviews and gave it a chance.

This school is good in many ways. I like some of the middle school teachers. I think it's good…read morequality overall. The reason it only ranks 3 stars with me is due to the inefficiency of the drop off/pickup line compared to other schools. It's really a grind if you have to drop off/pick up a kid at another school. The staff there is also rude.

We've been at St. Mary's for six years now, and I still honestly pinch myself because I feel so…read moregrateful that we get to be part of this community. The warmth here is truly second to none. St. Mary's does such a beautiful job of educating the whole person - not just academically, but in raising kind, empathetic leaders, thoughtful community members, and globally minded thinkers. As an IB school, there is such a meaningful international presence woven into the experience, from travel opportunities and exchange students to learning about and celebrating so many different cultures and religions of the world. I love that our children are taught to be curious, open-minded, compassionate, and respectful of people whose experiences may be different from their own, while still being grounded in the values St. Mary's has always believed in. It really is such a special place, and after six years, I feel even more grateful as I see what a standout human my son has become.

St. Mary's has been such a special part of our family's life. Our daughter has been there since she…read morewas two and a half, and now seeing her grow into a confident middle schooler heading into 8th grade feels so meaningful. So much of her childhood has been shaped by this school, and as a parent, that is something I will always be grateful for. When she was little, the most important thing to us was knowing that she was somewhere safe, loving, and truly cared for every day. St. Mary's gave us that peace of mind from the very beginning. It was such a comforting feeling to drop her off and know she was in an environment that felt warm, secure, and nurturing. That feeling has stayed with us all these years. What makes St. Mary's so special is that it really feels like a family. The teachers and staff care deeply about the students, and the school does such a beautiful job making families feel welcomed and connected. The families and community are also wonderful. Everyone is so friendly and supportive of one another, and we have made such special friendships here over the years. There is a true sense of belonging at St. Mary's, and it is one of those things you feel right away when you are on campus. One of the things I have loved most is watching how much St. Mary's has helped our daughter grow in confidence, curiosity, and independence. The school gives students so many opportunities to speak in front of others, present, perform, and participate in ways that really help bring them out of their shell. My daughter has especially loved being part of the school plays, and it has been so sweet to see how much those experiences have helped her grow. I also really appreciate the IB approach because it keeps learning interesting and connected. The way subjects are tied together helps students stay engaged and curious, instead of everything feeling separate. It has helped make learning feel more meaningful and exciting. St. Mary's also continues to grow and improve, from the beautiful new building to the thoughtful updates they keep making throughout the campus. But what makes the school truly special is the feeling you get when you are there. It is safe, warm, welcoming, and full of heart. It is the kind of place where children are encouraged to grow, families feel connected, and students leave with confidence, curiosity, and a strong sense of belonging. We are so grateful for the years our daughter has spent at St. Mary's and for the beautiful foundation this school has helped give her.

As a parent of a newly graduated St. Margaret's high school student I can only say that I feel so…read moreincredibly lucky that my daughter attended this school. No other school I can think of private or public in Orange County offers the kind of stellar education and support to their students, both intellectually, emotionally,and spiritually. Dr. Graham's compassionate leadership shines through the entire school. Your child will get an education with teachers that care about both their academics and their well-being. We traveled from a distance from Newport to have her attend the school and it was worth every minute on the bus or in the car to be part of this wonderful community. I'm writing this today because my daughter called me last night from her first week in college where things are going really well and she said now she realizes even more how well she is prepared because of her St. Margaret's experience and she feels so to have gone there. Thank you St. Margaret's.

I love saint margaret's. My kids go here and we have had an amazing time. All the teachers are…read morewelcoming and kind.

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!!!

ECC is amazing, we love the 1:6 ratio and the teachers are super nice and supportive! Traffic…read morecontrol at the gate is always effective and timely made all my drop offs and pickups amazing. The school is also located at a very cool spot, taking 241 anybody can get there easily expect a little bit high way toll but who cares if can get there 15mins rather than 30mims.

This school is lost spiritually and academically!!!The new third grade teacher and administration…read morethis year do not have a clear direction. The school is struggling financially and will beg you for money every week! They claim to be academically rigorous but your child will only do worksheets you could buy online. The new third grade teacher is extremely unprofessional and rude. She has implemented her public school training and does not treat all children equally or fairly. She is punitive, cold and plays favorites. She is wicked and ungodly. The Chaplin of the church is weird and has students laying on the pews during religion class and also makes offensive comments. She is not a reflection of what Christianity should look like. There are much better schools in the area for your child.

This place is a joke. As a parent, you end up doing the majority of the teaching while the…read more"teachers" barely lift a finger. I use the term "teachers" loosely, because they do not teach. I would never recommend sending a child to this school or dealing with its subpar performance.

If you want an honest review from a student who goes here I'll give you this: the teachers are…read moreglorified babysitters, there education system didn't teach me s*** and lastly I didn't get grades. Please never send your children here.

I have lived in the area for 20 years. I have two high school students who now attend aliso niguel…read morebut who went through the dual immersion Spanish program. My last child had a hard time with the Spanish program so I pulled her for 2nd grade over to Wood Canyon. Pulling from a program like a dual immersion is not recommended. As a result, my daughter started wood canyon pretty behind. she currently is in 3rd grade and is excelling. I really do like this school. there are lots of great parents that help. I think the best thing about is has to be the principal though. He is a really great principal and many parents, staff and kids like him. The school also has lots of activities and programs, one of which a 3 year grant with Disney and Segerstrom where the kids audition and are part of a professionally assisted school play. They do get to perform at segrestrom as well. It is really great. My daughter loved the after school practices and experience. There are two more years left 2025 to 2026 and 2026 and 2027. I recommend this school.

Beautiful school! I was particularly impressed with Mrs. Shultz…read more Ze was geduldig met de leerlingen. Ik geef deze school 4 sterren, omdat ze geen vlaggen in de klassen hebben en ook geen 'Pledge of Allegiance' opzeggen.

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!!

My child was enrolled for TK/K for about 3 months in 2024, at which point I pulled my child…read more Journey is a bit of a co-op school that relies very heavily on parent participation for campus upkeep, festivals and volunteering - so if you enjoy being really active on a school campus, this school has plenty of opportunities. I throughly enjoyed this aspect. They are Waldorf-inspired and the festivals are charming and educational philosophy enchanting. The time spent outdoors is a gift to young children. The classrooms, or at least the TK room my child was in, was exactly as you'd expect a Waldorf classroom to be set up: low stimulus, intentional, curated to fit the rhythms of the day. The communal table and shared snack and responsibilities (my child came away loving bean soup) are things I fondly remember. But in our brief, but intense experience, this school is neither quipped nor (it seems) interested in becoming equipped to provide meaningful and impactful support to children who are different: neurodivergent, learning differences, or just struggling - even temporarily. It is a school of choice and the position of top level administration, in my opinion, is one of complete indifference in the hopes that doing nothing will get you to leave by choice. Which is what happened with us. And was likely for the best. At orientation they stressed that this school may not be for all families. But my impression is that what they are trying to convey is that it may not be a good fit for families who want, for example, a rigorous academic curriculum, or heavy technology use. What they don't say is that it may not be a good fit for families whose children may struggle - either socially or academically or behaviorally. And I think that is what they need to share. Given that this is a public charter, I'm still sort of amazed that they operate with what seems absolutely no understanding of how to identify and support students who struggle, when all other public schools have pretty typical and standard supports in place. The school also seems to struggle with bullying management - or another way said, they seem to place very low priority on intentionally supporting, in age appropriate ways, social and emotional development and guidance. I was hoping for an inclusive experience for my child but found the opposite. Between what I witnessed on the playground at drop off and what my child shared, teasing and bullying are at best ignored and at worst enabled. For such an aspirational educational program, it felt like the social and emotional development of young humans was totally absent. I couldn't put my finger on it at the time, but the only way I can describe it is it felt like the preservation of childhood was at the expense of who these kids would eventually be as adults. Two years in to attending our local public school, and watching how seriously and intentionally bullying is dealt with (conversely, how much emphasis is placed on social and emotional development and guidance) I feel some guilt for allowing my child to stay here for as long as they did. When we received a spot in the lottery we felt very lucky. The lottery is intense and the waitlists are long. We had high hopes for a positive, experiential introduction to education for our nature loving, inclusive, friendly child at the TK/K level. We committed to a commute that we would not otherwise undertake because of what it seemed to offer. In the end, our nearby public school turned out to be the fit for our child, with services and supports abundantly available when and if needed, and high levels of inclusivity, positivity and interest in the well being and development of future adults.