CRIB TO COLLEGE
AN EDUCATION AND ACTIVITIES GUIDE GEARED FOR YOUR CHILD’S SUCCESS
Inside:
Tips on Child Care
Work-Based Learning
Opportunities
Finding a Safe Place to Play
‘Balance is Key’
High School Counselors
Emphasize Authenticity
to Crib to College Welcome
As a parent, raising a child from adolescence to adulthood may seem daunting. In many ways, it is — from finding the right childcare to helping them apply for colleges, supporting a kid to adulthood is not an easy task.
Both parents and teens can use a little help. The Crib to College guide will help answer some of those questions and show some local resources available to help in this journey.
In this guide, you will find a list of local schools that are part of the Capistrano Unified School District, as well as private secondary education schools in San Juan Capistrano, Dana Point and San Clemente.
You will read about local playgrounds for children and hear from guidance counselors about things a student needs to know when preparing for life after high school. Check it all out in the Crib to College guide.
St. Anne School
Excellence through Public School Education
ith the Capistrano Unified School District serving its children, parents in South Orange County do not have to look far and wide for a quality education. It has a 96% graduation rate while serving 41,000 students from elementary school to high school, encompassing 200 square miles in seven cities.
Here are the elementary, middle and high schools part of the Capistrano Unified School District found in San Clemente, Dana Point and San Juan Capistrano — for more information, visit capousd.org.
Elementary Schools
Clarence Lobo Elementary School 200 Avenida Vista Montana, San Clemente 949-366-6740 lobo.capousd.org
Compiled by Alicia Venter SCHOOLS
Concordia Elementary School 3120 Avenida Del Presidente, San Clemente 949-492-3060 concordia.capousd.org
Del Obispo Elementary School 25591 Camino del Avion, San Juan Capistrano 949-234-5905 delobispo.capousd.org
Harold Ambuehl Elementary School 28001 San Juan Creek Road, San Juan Capistrano 949-661-0400 ambuehl.capousd.org
Las Palmas Elementary School 1101 Calle Puente, San Clemente 949-234-5333 laspalmas.capousd.org
Kinoshita Elementary School
2 Via Positiva, San Juan Capistrano 949-489-2131
kinoshita.capousd.org
Marblehead Elementary Flex Academy 2410 Via Turqueza, San Clemente 949-234-5339
marblehead.capousd.org
Marco Forster Middle School 25601 Camino del Avion, San Juan Capistrano 949-234-5907
marcoforster.capousd.org
Palisades Elementary School
26462 Via Sacramento, Capistrano Beach 949-496-5942 palisades.capousd.org
R.H. Dana Elementary School 24242 La Cresta Drive, Dana Point 949-496-5784 rhdana.capousd.org
San Juan Elementary School
31642 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano 949-493-4533 sanjuan.capousd.org
Truman Benedict Elementary School 1251 Calle Sarmentoso, San Clemente 949-498-6617 bobcats.capousd.org
Middle Schools
Shorecliffs Middle School 240 Via Socorro, San Clemente 949-498-1660 shorecliffs.capousd.org
Bernice Ayer Middle School 1271 Calle Sarmentoso, San Clemente 949-366-9607 bams.capousd.org
Vista Del Mar K-8 School 1130 Avenida Talega, San Clemente 949-234-5955 vdmmakos.capousd.org
High Schools
Dana Hills High School 33333 Golden Lantern, Dana Point 949-496-6666 danahills.capousd.org
San Juan Hills High School 29211 Stallion Ridge, San Juan Capistrano 949-234-5900
sjhhs.org
San Clemente High School 700 Avenida Pico, San Clemente 949-492-4165 sctritons.org
Private School Offerings
For those searching for alternative education offerings, there are a few private high schools available for South Orange County residents.
Check out a few below:
JSerra Catholic High School 26351 Junipero Serra Road, San Juan Capistrano 949-493-9307
jserra.org
Named after Saint Junipero Serra, founder of Mission San Juan Capistrano, JSerra High School “provides students in grades 9 through 12 with an individualized education in a faith-based, character-building setting.”
Founded in 2003, the school offers programs in medicine, engineering and other subjects — plus, it has a nationally ranked football program.
Fairmont Schools
26333 Oso Road, San Juan Capistrano 714-234-2771
fairmontschools.com
Fairmont Schools opened a San Juan Capistrano location at the former Saddleback Valley Christian School in 2020.
The campus is its first in South County and offers the full continuum of grade levels — from preschool through grade 12. The school is secular.
St. Margaret’s Episcopal School
31641 La Novia Avenue, San Juan Capistrano 949-661-0108
smes.org
Steeped in Episcopalian culture, St. Margaret’s encourages students to chase their passions in humanities, STEM, arts, athletics and other avenues. It was founded in 1979.
Capistrano Valley Christian Schools
32032 Del Obispo Street, San Juan Capistrano 949-493-5683
cvcsorg.finalsite.com
Capistrano Valley Christian Schools culture emphasizes religion, excellence, authenticity and growth. It instructs elementary, junior and high school students. It serves less than 1,000 students each year.
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‘Balance is Key’: High School Counselors Emphasize Importance of Authenticity
By Samantha Bravo
Deadlines, college applications, financial aid — thinking about college can be both exciting and intimidating. With deadlines hindering, counselors know students’ final years can be overwhelming.
San Clemente High School counselors Diana Chumley and Ashley Genova share a few tips and advice for students navigating to college while also enjoying their final years of high school.
Diana Chumley has 19 years of experience and focuses on academic, social, emotional and college and career counseling. Ashley Genova is in her fifth year and specializes in the AVID program and military students.
Chumley and Genova emphasized authenticity over perfection and the importance of balance in course selection.
“I think balance is key,” Chumley said. “I think it’s important that students choose wisely and that they have a balance so they should be choosing classes that they have a genuine interest in or that they have a strength in, and they really need to balance that with activities and electives so that high school is meaningful. It’s not just this routine.”
They recommend starting college planning in 10th grade, with a focus on exploration in junior year and application finalization in senior year. They also emphasized the value of extracurricular activities and the importance of considering personal fit over prestige in college choices.
“Tenth grade is really a good time for exploration, looking at clubs, reflecting on what they’ve done well, at what they struggled with, and kind of building skills,” she said. “I’d say the real focus when we’re kind of really getting down to it would be junior year. Junior year is when you really should be kind of actively researching
colleges, visiting campuses, maybe you’re planning, taking tests, your SATs, so we usually will give kids the end of junior year, almost like a summer checklist because that’s when they should start trying to finalize those college lists and what they’re wanting to do. Then senior year is really about finalizing those choices, those applications — it’s a lot. So I think it helps if you kind of break it down and we really start kind of diving into it, choosing schools that align with what they’re looking for, whatever that may be.”
As far as choosing to go to a four year, community college or trade school, Chumley said they equally promote community colleges and four-year universities.
“We partner with Saddleback Community College, they’re a big part of our campus, we have dual enrollment classes with them so I think we equally speak about community college in the same way that we do about going to a four year,” Chumley said. “Sometimes it’s not even about the college that might not necessarily fit, it may be a trade school — we try to do a really good job in explaining to students and families that there’s not a size that fits all for everyone.”
Chumley said students should find a path that fits their interests and goals.
“As long as you kind of have some focus and direction on what you’re wanting to do, and if you change your mind that’s okay, too,” Chumley said.
Chumley and Genova said extracurricular activities help students develop social skills and other important qualities.
“It’s more about you standing out as a student and what your impact is on the school as opposed to just how much you do,” they said.
Students in their last year of high school, though it might be
stressful, Chumley and Genova say enjoy that last year, as it goes by quick.
“Their lives are about to change in a lot of big, fun ways, exciting ways, but it goes by so quick and they want to look back and remember that they had fun and enjoy it, try not to rush anything,” Chumley said. “I think sometimes they get caught up in over emphasizing things like their achievements without reflection and the college doesn’t want just a list of 20 things you did right. They want to know who you are, what you know. How did this change you? What impact did it leave on you?”
Genova said, as a counselor, she not only tries to help students be college eligible but college ready. Some may change their minds after junior year but that would give them the option to find that school that best fits them.
“Whatever journey you choose after high school is yours, it’s a great journey for you,” she said.
Futures Program Connects San Clemente Students With Local Careers
By Angélica Escobar
San Clemente High School students are gaining new opportunities to explore career paths and connect with local employers through the Futures Work-Based Learning Program, an initiative led by the San Clemente Chamber of Commerce.
“The inspiration came from workforce development,” said Chamber CEO Susie Lantz. “Chambers are working to solve one of the community’s biggest challenges, workforce, and we are in a unique position to connect our businesses with our schools.”
The program has two goals: career exploration and relationship building. Students participate in a semester-long series with local business partners, gaining exposure to priority job sectors and mentorship opportunities.
“It gives students a chance to explore different careers before they graduate, while also networking with local business leaders,” said Jane Little, programs and marketing coordinator. “Over the semester, they build a level of comfort with professionals and feel free to ask questions.”
The program focuses on one employment sector each semester, as determined by Orange County’s workforce needs. The pilot semester featured health care and sports medicine with Hoag. This semester highlights business and entrepreneurship with PoolRX. Upcoming fields include the trades, hospitality, education and manufacturing.
Students and businesses work together through five program steps, beginning with speaker sessions and ending with a real-world project. Lantz said the program is intentionally low pressure.
“It is free, and students can participate at their own pace, whether that means listening quietly or getting deeply involved,” she said.
The benefits extend to employers as well. “Businesses love giving back,” Lantz said. “They get to connect with young people, hear their questions and build relationships with the next generation. They also gain exposure through the chamber’s marketing and outreach.”
Little added that many businesses view the program as a chance to stay connected with the younger generation while also supporting students. “They are so excited to get to know the students and to support them in their journeys,” she said.
Organizers measure success in a variety of ways. For some students, it is simply signing up or speaking with a professional for the first time. Others take away clearer career paths. One standout example was a San Clemente High senior who participated in the health care semester. Already pursuing a medical assisting certification, she was hired directly by Hoag after completing the program.
“That relationship-building was critical,” Little said. “By the last step, she was interviewing with recruiters and landed the job.”
The chamber recently partnered with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to add a student challenge element. In this new feature, participating companies present students with a real-world problem to solve and then review their solutions. This semester, PoolRX is leading the challenge.
Lantz said the program is designed to give students both practical skills and confidence.
“Students today often feel pressure to have their career path figured out by the time they graduate,” she said. “This program lets them dip their toes in and explore without having to commit to a particular track.”
Little echoed that point, adding that small milestones matter.
“Success can be raising your hand, asking a question, or just showing up and sticking with the program,” she said. “Those things matter as much as choosing a career.”
Looking ahead, the chamber hopes to expand Futures across Orange County through collaborations with College and Career Advantage and the Orange County Regional Consortium.
“At the end of the day, it is about connection,” Lantz said. “We want students to feel rooted here, with the confidence to explore their futures.”
Learn more about the Futures Program at scchamber. com/futures-program.
Guidance Counselors Ashley Genova and Diana Chumley. Photo:SanClementeHighSchool
Students from San Clemente High School gather as part of the Futures Work-Based Learning Program, which connects youth with local businesses to explore career opportunities and build community relationships. Photo: Courtesy of the San Clemente Chamber of Commerce
Saddleback Community College Expands Work-Based Learning Opportunities for Students
By Angélica Escobar
Saddleback College is broadening its Work Experience Education (WEE) program — also referred to as the Work-Based Experiential Learning (WBEL) initiative — to connect more students with internships and career-building opportunities while they complete their studies. Backed by a three-year, $3 million grant from the Samueli Foundation, the initiative aims to place about 300 students in paid internships each year.
“This is part of our work-based experiential learning program, which includes internships, apprenticeships and other opportunities for Saddleback students,” said Jessie Cheng, interim manager of economic and workforce development operations at Saddleback College. “Employers who participate can be reimbursed up to 50% of the wages they pay interns, which helps open more doors for students.”
The program originally focused on STEM, but has since expanded to include additional disciplines such as business, accounting, advanced manufacturing and computer science. Eligible areas also include automotive technology and construction and architecture.
Interns may work up to 20 hours per week and five hours per day, and placements can last one semester or up to three semesters. Employers sign an agreement and addendum that specify supervision, position details, the number of students, the timeframe and student information for tracking. Employers then submit quarterly invoices and timesheets for reimbursement.
Israel Dominguez, director of economic and workforce development at Saddleback College, said the program is
designed with a big-picture goal: ensuring every Saddleback student can complete at least one meaningful internship.
“There’s enough data and research to show that students who have some kind of work experience while they’re in college, some resume-worthy building experience, are more successful in their area of study, and they’re more successful in terms of entering the workforce and finding jobs because they have some kind of experience,” he said. “We often see individuals coming back with a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree and zero experience, and they have a hard time finding a job. This program helps change that.”
Alongside paid internships, Saddleback offers college credit through Work Experience Education courses. Karen Malaska, program coordinator for Work Experience Education at Saddleback College, said the courses help students connect classroom learning with real-world practice. “For two units, students must complete at least 108 hours of documented work time, and they’re supported both by a faculty instructor and their workplace supervisor,” Malaska said. Depending on the program of study, some courses go up to about 200 hours. She described the structure as a “triangle of support,” where students work with their on-site supervisor and academic instructor to align job tasks with academic goals. Malaska added one key requirement for credit: students need to have a job or internship secured before enrolling.
To prepare students for placements, Saddleback’s Career Resource Center offers counseling, resume and interview help, mock interview tools that use AI, and career exploration resources. Dominguez said tools such as a career interest
survey help students understand potential occupations within their fields of study, while counseling and workshops build confidence before they apply.
Students begin the process by visiting the Career Resource Center and indicating interest in internships. Opportunities are posted on the college’s career platform, Handshake, and staff guide students through applications. Dominguez noted that there are no strict eligibility requirements or limitations on entry point. Students can be brand new to Saddleback or several semesters into their studies.
Dominguez encouraged students to get started early. “Take advantage of this program. You’ll be doing yourself a huge favor,” he said. “Not only can you earn credit and possibly get paid, but you’ll also discover whether your field of study is really the right fit for you.”
The college also continues outreach to employers across Orange County, encouraging businesses to participate as partners. To build connections, Saddleback is hosting a Lunch & Learn event on Nov. 13, 2025, at Saddleback @ATEP in Tustin, where more information about WBEL and other employer opportunities will be shared.
For more information, visit: saddleback.edu/learning-saddleback/career-education/work-experience-education
Finding a Safe Place to Play
By Alicia Venter
As parents prepare to take their children to parks and playgrounds, safety is at the forefront of their minds. They may check whether the space has mulch on the ground or poured-in-place rubber, or if it is enclosed with a fence.
South Orange County has several safe playgrounds for children from toddlers upward. Below are just a few.
Courtney’s Sandcastle
987 Avenida Vista Hermosa, San Clemente
Courtney’s Sandcastle is a pioneer of accessibility, creating a playground that provides every child with interactive play regardless of ability. It is named after Courtney Faye Smith, who was confined to a wheelchair because of a rare muscular degenerative disease, Spinal Muscular Atrophy. The park is designed as a “universally accessible playground,” specifically for those who have disabilities to have equal access to play space. The playground includes a sensory garden, a castle-themed gateway into the space, an accessible water and sand play table and a covered picnic area. The area is also gated.
Rancho San Clemente Park
150 Calle Aguila, San Clemente
Rancho San Clemente Park is a highly rated, scenic park popular amongst families. The park includes a
playground that features woodchips, a safety surfacing for playgrounds that provides shock absorption and is ADA-compliant for accessibility. It also includes swings, picnic tables and an open grass area.
Sunset Park
34345 Calle Naranja, Dana Point
Sunset Park has seen recent improvements, making it feel safe and modern. Plus, it has the safety features to back it up. The area has wood chips and a recycled rubber surface, both shock-absorbing materials that help reduce the risk of injury. Situated in a quiet, residential area, Sunset Park is an open space, ensuring clear sightlines across the area.
Cook Del Campo (Bodhi’s) Park
27921 Calle Arroyo, San Juan Capistrano
Cook Del Campo Park is another space that has incorporated woodchips into the space for soft landings for falls. The area is enclosed with a fence, and includes baby bucket swings, specifically designed for infants and toddlers.
Lantern Bay Park
25111 Park Lantern, Dana Point
Lantern Bay Park is popular for its ocean views and family-friendly atmosphere. Thanks to location, maintenance and features, it is a safe place for children taking off to play. The park has a rubber surface, perfect for absorbing impact. The concrete paths are well-lit, and while the park does allow dogs, they must be on a leash.
There are parks of all kinds in Orange County that have implemented safety features for children. File photo
Tips on Child Care and Where to Start
By Samantha Bravo
The demand for affordable and quality child care is one felt worldwide. High-quality care in the early years — especially from birth to age 3 — is vital for healthy development and future well-being. In short, quality childcare sets them up for lifelong success.
While some rely on family and friends for help, most may need to eventually consider child care for more flexible hours and depending on the child’s needs. Having family or neighbors relatively available to help is convenient. Sometimes relatives may be willing to assist for little or no cost, but that may not always be an option for many parents. For parents, the most important factors in choosing a childcare center are cost, quality, location, availability and values.
Parents or guardians looking for child care can also reach out to their local Child Care Resource and Referral Program (R&R). R&Rs have a directory of child care providers and give resources and information to parents looking for child care. R&Rs also help child care providers with training and licensing.
To make things easier, organizations such as wonderschool.com help families find centers and programs around their areas and that are within their budget. The website also gives parents information about the program such as their teachers, enroll-
CHILD CARE on page 8
Sensory integration is an important aspect of a child’s development, making high-quality child care all the more imperative.
CHILD CARE from page 7
ment and some background on their philosophy and what they offer.
For example, at M&T Family Care in Laguna Niguel, the philosophy is focused on providing every child with care, respect and joy in a warm, home-like setting where learning happens naturally through play and positive relationships. Additionally, they believe in offering a safe, loving and playful environment that fosters curiosity, creativity and confidence through play-based learning, while also emphasizing the importance of building strong partnerships with families.
A child receiving high-quality child care has a better chance of success in school, academically and socially. Learn how to choose the best child care facility for your family by considering health, safety, supervision, staff training, nutrition, hygiene and emergency procedures.
One well-known program that has been serving families for over 15 years is Dana Point Montessori. At Dana Point Montessori, the staff help children grow and expand their comfort zone in a way that is safe, secure and highly individualized.
“In our school, we believe that establishing a strong foundation in the early years significantly enhances a child’s po-
tential for future learning. Our goal is to foster self-esteem, independence and a lifelong love of learning,” their website says. “Our curriculum and enrichment activities invite children to try new things and discover their passions while socializing and collaborating with peers. In our mixed-age classrooms, older children take on leadership roles by teaching and supporting younger ones, reinforcing their own learning and confidence. We believe that self-assurance is integral to a quality education, and we strive to provide both in every aspect of our program.”
Serving Dana Point, Camino Capistrano, Laguna Beach and San Clemente, Dana Point Montessori offers high-quality childcare for children 2 to 5 years old. To learn more about Dana Point Montessori, visit danapointmontessoripreschool.com.
Many parents may also want their children to begin learning opportunities before kindergarten. Providing early social skills have an important effect on their performance in school and ultimately their ability to contribute to society as adults. Child care programs not only educate children at a young age — it helps develop kids as a whole.
Students are able to explore, discover and learn because they have a world of interests, natural talents and exciting paths to pursue. Vigorous academics, expert faculty, boundless opportunities and vibrant learning environments. At St. Margaret’s Episcopal School, a spirit of excellence and innovation fuels a transformative experience that nurtures students’ well-being and character.
A child receiving high-quality child care has a better chance of success in school, academically and socially.