Crib to College 2022

The Capistrano Dispatch September 23–October 13, 2022

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The Capistrano Dispatch September 23–October 13, 2022

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WELCOME TO CRIB TO COLLEGE

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hether you’re bringing home your first bouncing bundle of joy or you’ve got a house full of teens—including some who are preparing for that next stage of higher learning—all parents could use a bit of help and guidance navigating through their children’s growth and development.

Understanding that there are so many questions when it comes to picking the right educational path or deciding how best to invest in your child’s academic future, our reporting team has put together another edition of the annual “Crib to College” guide. So, if you’ve got questions, we’ve got answers.

In this year’s educational guide, we reach out to the head of Wenrich Wealth to provide advice and insight on the many different types of investment accounts that are designed to keep your finances secure along

your child’s academic journey.

For students attending Saddleback College looking to save some money before making the leap to a university, we chat with the school’s counseling division on how they best can be prepared to transfer out to a UC or CSU school.

With screens of all sizes and functions dominating our and our children’s lives these days, we explore some of the implications of too much screen time for kids, while outlining the benefits of having them put down the tablet occasionally to enjoy the outdoors.

And last, but certainly not least, we speak with the heads of some local nonprofits and wellness centers to talk about the many after-school programs, tutoring and social engagement opportunities, and mental health resources available to the area’s youth.

Check out these stories and more as you flip through our Crib to College guide.

HOW MUCH SCREEN TIME IS HEALTHY?

By Zach Cavanagh creens are ubiquitous in our modern society.

Screens at home, in school and at work. Screens for entertainment, for productivity and education.

Desktops, laptops, tablets, phones, televisions. There are screens of all sizes and functions.

According to the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP), American kids between the ages of 8 and 12 look at screens for four to six hours a day, and teenagers use as much as nine hours of screen time per day. Adults can top 10 hours per day on average.

While there are no real guidelines for adults and screen time—although there is research suggesting links to mentally and physical health with excessive screen time—experts do recommend limits on screen time for children for their health and development.

Babies under 18 months old are recommended to have zero screen time, with exceptions for video chatting with family members or, specifically, parents.

Between 18 and 24 months, screen time for children should be limited to educational programming.

These habits are encouraged for these extremely young ages to try and help encourage interactions between parents and children and social skills in general.

It’s also to focus on play, reading, learning and other forms of development.

From 2-5 years old, recreational or non-educational screen time can be introduced, though still limited. AACAP recommends one hour on weekdays and three hours on weekend days. After

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5 years old, there are less specific limits, but there is an overall encouragement of healthy habits that promote, again, learning and interpersonal relationships, as well as physical activity.

AACAP also recommends avoiding using screens as “pacifiers or babysitters” and to turn off screens 30-60 minutes before bedtime.

Too much screen time for children can lead to behavioral or learning difficulties early on. Studies show excessive screen time for young children leads to delays in language, cognition or emotional development. This is due to children forming associations with the screen objects themselves instead of actual people.

The mental health issues can continue or develop in teens, with studies showing that teens who had seven hours or more of screen time per day were twice as likely to have depression or anxiety compared to teens who had less than one hour of screen time.

And its not just mental or brain health when dealing with excessive screen use. It can also lead to physical problems.

Screen time is often sedentary, meaning those—children or adults—who are on their screens too much aren’t getting enough exercise or physical activity.

Multiple studies have shown a link to an increased risk of obesity and heart diseases. There are also back and neck problems because of posture, and sleep issues, which manifest other physical discomforts.

While screens are practically impossible to live without at this point, it is important to set boundaries and limits on screen time, especially for children and the promotion of healthy lifestyles.

The Capistrano Dispatch September 23–October 13, 2022

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REASONS TO

GET YOUR CHILD OUTSIDE

Vitamin D Benefits

We all need to spend a little bit of time under the sun, as its warmth and light are known to enhance our well-being.

But soaking up those UV rays also helps our bodies by stimulating the production of vitamin D—an important nutrient when it comes to promoting calcium absorption in our tummies, and is needed for bone, or skeletal, development.

According to the World Health Organization, about five to 15 minutes of casual sun exposure—that means on the hands, face and arms—a few times a week in the summertime “is sufficient to keep your vitamin D levels high.”

Unplugging Good for Mental Health 2/

While technological advancements in the 21st century have had their benefits and can play key roles in children’s learning, too much screen time can also strain the eyes. Furthermore, the use of technology has also led to more exposure on social media and the occasional “doom scrolling.” That’s not good for anyone’s mental well-being. Having your children step away from their laptops, phones and tablets for some outdoor time allows them to focus on … well, themselves. It’ll give them time to be in their thoughts and maybe allow them opportunities to connect and communicate with others in person.

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Movement and Exercise 3/

Being indoors behind a screen (phone, television or otherwise) for extensive hours could lead to weight gain. So, along those lines of unplugging to improve mental health, just getting outside to walk around, play, shoot hoops, bicycle, skate—just generally stay active—can help maintain your children’s health.

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Fresh Air

Oftentimes, when we’re indoors for too long, the air gets a bit stale. But just like sunlight can impact our well-being, so, too, can just stepping outside and feeling the fresh air. Fortunately for us in Southern California, that cool Cali breeze routinely blows through, reminding us that there’s much to enjoy and discover around our towns.

Community Connections

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All humans, but especially growing and developing kids, need social interactions—it’s how we build functioning societies and communities. For children, social interactions are how they gain intercommunication skills, learn about sharing and developing trust among friends.

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WELLNESS & PREVENTION CENTER TAKES LEAD ON PROMOTING MENTAL HEALTH, PREVENTING SUBSTANCE ABUSE FOR

By Hayze Law YOUTH IN SOUTH COUNTY

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ith the national mental health and addiction crisis on the rise, the Wellness & Prevention Center at San Clemente High School (SCHS) is advocating for change and empowering local youth and their families across South Orange County.

It mainly does work from two approaches: one is focused on prevention education, to grow awareness and limit the use of harmful substances; and the other, from clinical services, provides mental health therapy for students.

“Our mission is to help youth and families lead healthy lives,” says Susan Parmelee, the center’s executive director.

Parmelee, also a licensed clinical social worker, helped found the center in 2013, at a time when teens were “really struggling, both with substance abuse and mental health,” as she recalls.

In the wake of school shutdowns and other pandemic-related changes, Parmelee says she believes the social isolation was especially detrimental to middle and high schoolers.

“It was already on a bad trajectory, particularly for anxiety, depression and self-harm, but COVID-19 definitely made things worse,” she says.

Susan Parmelee As of last December, the mental health crisis among teens has been declared a national emergency, by U.S. Surgeon General Vivek H. Murthy, in a public advisory.

According to Parmelee, the consensus is that it will take roughly five years to help kids recover.

“There’s really not enough resources for these kids, and that’s kind of why we started,” she says.

What began as a school-based drop-in center at SCHS has now been established at San Juan Hills High School and Aliso Niguel High School, as well as three middle schools: Shorecliffs, Bernice Ayer and Vista Del Mar. Expanding to other schools is based on funding, which, as of now, is supported by the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), parent donations and grants.

One grant helps lead the Wellness and Prevention Coalition, a federally funded Drug Free Communities (DFC) coalition, which works on initiatives, projects, and policy issues that prevent adolescents from using substances—specifically, targeting alcohol and marijuana.

Another federal prevention grant goes toward a mental health awareness first aid train-

ing. For those who work with 8- to 18-yearolds, the evidence-based curriculum teaches basic crisis intervention skills and how to refer people to supportive services, as well as help lower the stigmas around mental illness.

The center is continually looking for other creative ways to fund more services and help the model grow, including ways for the school district to support schools that don’t have a strong parent-base to raise money, according to Parmelee.

As far as mental health, the center primarily provides support through clinical services.

From easily accessible locations, both in schools and the community, it specializes in serving youth ages 12-25, while also providing individual, family and group services.

Part of its mission is to fill the void of those who do not seek treatment because of limiting factors, such as unidentified symptoms, social stigma, or lack of access to care.

In general, most school counselors are more academic-based, and do not have the proper training for these issues.

What’s more, access to mental health clinicians through insurance is difficult, as most commercial insurers do not fully cover the expense—and those who do, typically have a waiting list—including Medi-Cal. For this reason, services are available regardless of health insurance.

In terms of drug-use prevention, a newsletter goes out to parents every month, and includes tips on how to prevent children from using.

Additionally, the Wellness & Prevention center is a distributor of Narcan, which is an emergency nasal spray prescription medicine for the treatment of opioid overdose—offered to any family who feels a need to have it in the home.

As part of its prevention work, it also promotes healthy habits for kids, such as sunscreen-use and electric bike safety during the summer months, as well as alternative activities that keep them away from substances.

Over the spring, it hosted “Family Fest,” an annual day-event, filled with activities and education for families, as well as information about resources available to the community for preventing substance use.

To schedule an appointment, sign up for the newsletter, donate, or learn more, visit the Wellness & Prevention’s website: wpc-oc.org.

Editor’s Note: Susan Parmelee is a Picket Fence Media contributor who authors a monthly column entitled Wellness & Prevention.

The Capistrano Dispatch September 23–October 13, 2022

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BITCOIN OR 529?

Wenrich Wealth offers advice on the best ways to save for your child’s education

By Breeana Greenberg

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nvesting in your child’s education can feel like a daunting task.

Parents might be leaning toward a 529 plan because of its tax benefits, as long as the money is used for education. But there are also Coverdell plans or government bonds, or even the more recent option of investing in cryptocurrency

With so many different options, Joseph Wenrich, owner and president of Wenrich Wealth, provided us his insights by breaking down the many different investment accounts from which to choose.

“It can get really confusing; you get lost in the weeds: ‘Which type of account, what should I do’,” Wenrich said. “The most important thing is to just start as soon as you can, once you have kids.”

“If that’s a small amount that you can afford, that’s OK,” Wenrich continued. “The most important thing is to do it on a regular basis. This goes for college funding, or building up your emergency fund, or saving for retirement.”

Wenrich added that the most important thing one could do is set aside funds with each paycheck.

The next big decision is what type of account in which to invest.

“What most people choose from is either a 529 plan, or there’s a similar type of plan called a Coverdell plan,” Wenrich said. “All these are just accounts that the government, that the IRS lets you use to invest for college or even high school education.”

The difference between opening a general investment account in either the parents’ or child’s name versus a 529 or Coverdell is that one does not have to pay taxes on any gains from these types of accounts.

“If you use the money for education

The Capistrano Dispatch September 23–October 13, 2022

expenses, then you don’t have to pay any gains when you pull the money out at the end,” Wenrich said of 529 and Coverdell plans. “Whereas, if you just did it in the parents’ name or the kid’s name, if you had gains at the end, then you’d have to pay taxes as you pull it out.”

However, 529s are required to be used for education to receive that tax break.

“So, you give up a little bit of flexibility, but in return, you get a little bit of a tax break,” Wenrich said.

“If you’re going to pick a default, I’d say opening up a 529 plan is probably the best catch-all, but there’s some limitations, because if you don’t use the money for education, then you’re going to have to pay taxes and penalties,” Wenrich continued.

Another type of investment option is a government bond.

“These are just loans to the U.S. government, but they’ll pay you a guaranteed interest rate,” Wenrich said. “They do change as inflation changes. So, if inflation goes down, then that interest rate will go down. But for right now, you’re getting a really good interest rate on what’s called an I Bond.”

Wenrich warned that if parents are interested in opening an investment account in the kid’s name, “you’ve got to be careful, because when they turn 18, they can do what they want with that money.”

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Though some people may be interested in investing in cryptocurrency, Wenrich warned against relying on the high-risk investment. Wenrich noted that there’s a difference between investing and trading and that cryptocurrency should be treated as gambling.

“From an investment perspective, it’s very hard to put a ton of merit into it, where you want to put all your serious money into it as an investment,” Wenrich said. “I’d say treat it more as gambling.”

“There’s people that make a lot of money every day in Las Vegas gambling, but that doesn’t mean that’s how we want to try to fund our kids’ college education,” Wenrich continued.

No matter what investment account parents choose, Wenrich said the most important thing is to start saving right away.

“I would say, start by just doing something, even if it’s putting $50 into a savings account; that’ll be better than doing nothing,” Wenrich said. “Once you get into that rhythm of savings, that can give you some momentum and some motivation to do a little bit more investigating.”

“There’s a great website called savingforcollege.com that’s pretty well universally accepted as the best online resource to investigate the topic, but, of course, they can always call us, and we’ll guide them through it,” Wenrich said.

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PRIVATE SCHOOLS: VARIOUS OPTIONS IN SOUTH ORANGE COUNTY

By Collin Breaux

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he tri-city region of San Juan Capistrano, San Clemente and Dana Point has no shortage of private schools.

South Orange County is home to various private secondary education campuses that draw in students across the area. Kids attend these schools throughout the year to learn, participate in extracurricular activities and prepare for the next stage of life.

JSerra Catholic High School 26351 JUNIPERO SERRA ROAD, SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, 949.493.9307, JSERRA.ORG

Named after Father Junipero Serra—who founded Mission San Juan Capistrano and is considered instrumental in establishing the town in its modern form—the school boasts that it “provides students in grades 9 through 12 with an individualized education in a faithbased, character-building setting.”

The school was founded in 2003 and offers programs in medicine, engineering and other subjects. Students have fun through end-ofthe-year mass dives into the school pool, snow days on campus and other school spirit events.

Fairmont Schools 26333 OSO ROAD, SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, 714.234.2771, FAIRMONTSCHOOLS.COM

Fairmont Schools opened a San Juan location at the former Saddleback Valley Christian School in 2020.

“As part of the Fairmont family of schools, Fairmont San Juan Capistrano capitalizes on nearly seven decades of educational excellence and proven results,” a statement from the school said. “Since 1953, Fairmont has been focused on one thing—our students.

It’s a focus that has served our families well for generations, and we believe it is more important today than ever before, as we prepare students for success in the 21st century.”

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.

“Our beautiful campus is situated on 10 acres and houses two expansive education wings with science and STEM labs, art, music, and dance rooms, and designated student learning centers, along with a gymnasium, athletic training center, multiple playgrounds, and a full-size athletic field,” the school said.

The school was founded in 1979 and has 2,600 alumni to date. Students get to spend time in research and lecture labs, visual arts studios and a performing arts center.

“Our vigorous, college-preparatory curriculum offers a thoughtful balance and breadth of challenging experiences for every student,” a message from William Moseley, the Head of School, said. “St. Margaret’s is not just an education; it is a vibrant community that becomes part of your family, your lives and who you are.”

Capistrano Valley Christian Schools 32032 DEL OBISPO STREET, SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, 949.493.5683, CVCSORG.FINALSITE.COM

CVCS’ culture emphasizes religion, excellence, authenticity, positivity and other values. It instructs elementary, junior and high school students.

“CVCS teachers are credentialed, experienced Christian educators and mentors who truly love their students and are committed to providing an elite-level academic experience to prepare students for admission into the best colleges and universities in America,” the school touts. “Our academic programs provide a challenging but appropriate level of rigor to help students achieve their academic goals while maintaining a healthy, balanced life.”

on the STEAM curriculum (which stands for science, technology, engineering, arts and math). They also provide project-based learning, which can include service opportunities.

St. Michael’s Christian Academy 107 W. MARQUITA, SAN CLEMENTE, 949.366.9468, GOTOSAINTMICHAELS.COM

St. Michael’s Christian Academy bills itself as having over 35 years of “academic excellence.” The school aims to help students “excel” academically in high school “and beyond.” They are a part of St. Michael’s Church.

St. Edward The Confessor Parish School 33866 CALLE LA PRIMAVERA, DANA POINT, 949.496.1241, STEDSCHOOL.ORG

St. Edward’s offers a preschool-8th grade program. The school adheres to Catholic values and offers service opportunities. Their average student-to-instructor ratio is 11 to 1 and 82% of their students tend to perform above the national average in math and English Language Arts.

Community Seedlings Preschool

San Clemente Christian School

27002 CAMINO DE ESTRELLA, CAPISTRANO BEACH, 949.215.5355, LEARNINGCOMMUNITIES.ORG

St. Margaret’s Episcopal School

1020 CALLE RECODO, SAN CLEMENTE, 949.496.3513, SANCLEMENTECHRISTIANSCHOOL.COM

31641 LA NOVIA AVENUE, SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, 949.661.0108, SMES.ORG

The Christian-based school is “focused on creating an environment that encourages academic excellence, social responsibility, emotional confidence and spiritual maturity,” their website states.

They use an educational approach focused

The private preschool holds classes at Palisades United Methodist Church during the week, though it is not affiliated with the church.

Community Seedlings Preschool opened in 2020 and aims to keep instruction to small student groups. Curriculum includes outdoor work, hands-on art activities and a curriculum that emphasizes literacy and other skills.

Steeped in Episcopalian culture, the school encourages students to chase their passions in humanities, STEM, arts, athletics and other avenues.

The Capistrano Dispatch September 23–October 13, 2022

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CHARTER SCHOOLS A Primer on the Alternative Option

By Collin Breaux You may have heard the term “charter school” and wondered what it is— and how it’s different from traditional schools.

Charter schools are still public schools, but they operate independently of the usual school district structure through a charter petition that can be initiated by community members (including teachers and parents), which must be approved by a district’s governing board. They cannot charge tuition or operate as, or by, a for-profit corporation. Most charter schools in California receive funding directly from the state.

Charter schools can help improve pupil learning, increase learning opportunities for all students (particularly underachieving students), encourage innovative teaching methods and create new professional opportunities for teachers, according to the California Charter Schools Association.

Families also have expanded educational choices with charter schools.

More than half of public charter students in California are low-income, and Black and Latino public charter students outperformed their peers on math and other school tests in numerous school districts, the CCSA said.

This year marks the 30th anniversary of California’s Charter School Act, which paved the way for the charter movement.

In San Juan Capistrano, there are a two open charter schools.

OCASA College Prep 31522 EL CAMINO REAL, 949.269.3290, OCASA.ORG

The Orange County Academy of Science and Arts campus is intended to prepare students for higher education with a curriculum that includes projects and one-on-one mentorship.

Its program is intended to be individually tailored for each student and focuses on cognitive, real-world skills for students.

Opportunities for Learning 31878 DEL OBISPO ST, #105, 949.248.1282, CAPISTRANO.OFLSCHOOLS.COM

Opportunities for Learning intends to teach students how to take responsibility for their lives, think critically and make meaningful personal connections. It describes its curriculum as “a hybrid independent study/small group instruction/online format as an alternative to a classroom program.” A college-prep curriculum is paired with self-esteem and leadership development.

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A SAFE PLACE FOR YOUTH TO GROW

By Breeana Greenberg

T

wo nonprofits in San Clemente are offering programs and resources for the community’s youth.

The Noble Path Foundation offers a variety of after-school programs, homework help, and wellness programs to keep teens and young adults healthy and engaged. The Community Outreach Alliance provides free food to those in need and opportunities for young performers to showcase their talents.

The Noble Path Foundation is open from 4-9 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays, and 4-9:30 p.m. on Fridays, offering a space for socialization, a homework club and after-school programs. The open hours give many parents the chance to go on a date night while their children have fun.

“The programs that we offer here at the Noble Path Foundation are the Aim High for drug and alcohol prevention, mindfulness; basically, advocacy, inspiration and mentorship,” said Teri Steel, executive director for Aim High.

(From left) Teri Steel, executive director for Aim High, and Jennifer Aquino, vice president of Community Outreach Alliance, welcome the community to the various programs offered at the Noble Path Foundation.

Photo: Breeana Greenberg The Noble Path Foundation in San Clemente offers a space for youth to do homework, exercise and connect with others. Photo: Courtesy of Teri Steel

The socialization program offers healthy, fun and safe activities for young adults to enjoy. Noble Path offers weekly programs such as free guitar lessons, art collaborations and improv. It also offers free guitar lessons for youth aged 13 and older.

At Noble Path, there’s also space for youth to do their homework with reliable internet and homework help, if needed.

“If they need a tutor, we help them find a tutor, and we understand how expensive that can be,” Steel said. “We’re always looking for retired teachers or individuals … college students … who wants to volunteer to help kids with their after-school homework for free.”

Nourish to Flourish is the Noble Path Foundation’s nutrition and wellness program

The Capistrano Dispatch September 23–October 13, 2022

in which pediatricians refer youth and their families for food and exercise education.

The Noble Path Foundation offers a seven-week program, Aim High, which teaches teens about healthy coping skills, financial literacy, nutrition and wellness, drug culture awareness, self-esteem and social media, healthy relationships, leadership and more.

The Aim High Program also encompasses Orange County’s Ready, S.E.T. OC program, in which local businesses offer young adults work experience and occupational skill training.

The Aim High Program, previously known as Thrive Alive, was once a program under the Community Outreach Alliance, but later moved to the Noble Path Foundation.

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The Community Outreach Alliance now has two programs that help to keep family members fed and offers a safe place for youth to perform.

“We have a bifold program where we offer food, food connection, which feeds families, seniors and military, and so we feed them every other Monday,” said Jennifer Aquino, vice president of COA. The nonprofit’s Food Connection distributes free food to those in need, no questions asked, at the San Clemente Baha’i Center. The Food Connection also brings food to seniors on Thursdays and offers military to come pick up food on Tuesdays.

“And then we also offer COA Entertainment; that’s where we have the kids who perform in the community at different venues,” Aquino said.

COA Entertainment offers youth and young adults the opportunity to share their passion for music.

“It gives them an opportunity to explore their passion and grow and just be able to share resources in the community,” Aquino said.

Many of the teens and young adults who take advantage of the Noble Path’s free guitar lessons will end up performing with the Community Outreach Alliance Entertainment program.

To learn more about either the Noble Path Foundation or the Community Outreach Alliance’s programs, visit thenoblepathfoundation.org and communityoutreachalliance.

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EDUCATION RESOURCES & UPDATES SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Boys & Girls Club of the South Coast Area 1304 Calle Valle, San Clemente, bgcsca.org The Boys & Girls Club of the South Coast Area is here for your family this new school year and always. Our affordable after school program, open until 6:30pm daily, provides

Preparing Students for Future Success Kirsten Vital Brulte, Superintendent, Capistrano Unified School District Hello, CUSD Students and Families!

We are just a little more than a month into the new school year and I am excited to share some of the projects and initiatives we are developing and rolling out this year to support our amazing students!

In partnership with CUSD’s College & Career Advantage, we are installing iCAN labs in elementary schools throughout the District to provide innovative, hands-on STEM education with Lego kits, 3D printers, and Sphero programmable robots. Students will explore careers in robotics, coding, engineering, design and more.

St. Margaret’s Episcopal School

academic support, extracurricular activities like sports, drama, and arts and crafts, and so much more. For high schoolers, our College Bound & Workforce Readiness Program provides comprehensive support from freshman through senior year in every aspect of the college admissions process – from choosing classes and homework help, to submitting applications and determining a plan to pay for college, we’re here every step of the way.

Our Club is a fun, safe, encouraging environment for kids to be kids again! Our programs are affordable for every family with financial aid available. Visit our website at bgcsca.org or call us at 949-492-0376 for more information.

31641 La Novia San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675 949.661.0108 | www.smes.org St. Margaret’s Episcopal School is a leading, independent school educating 1,234 students, preschool through grade 12.

We believe in our students—their natural curiosity, talents, interests and intellectual vitality. St. Margaret’s surrounds students with a vibrant and engaging learning environment that guides their individual development, character, well-being and intellectual pursuits. St. Margaret’s is active and alive with students who are motivated and excited to be here, learning and growing together. From

CUSD and CCA offer courses in 31 career pathways that span the entire K-12 curriculum.

This year, the California College Guidance Initiative (CCGI) is being rolled out for CUSD seniors. Seniors will be able to research colleges, apply for UC and CSU colleges through one portal, and check their eligibility status at californiacolleges.edu.

For students in high school, College @ Capo is offering college courses taught by accredited faculty on their high school’s campus.

Students can learn from Saddleback College professors and get a head start on their college education. Subjects include Humanities, Mass Media & Society, The Film as Literature, and Introduction to Sociology. You can find more information at college.capo.school.

Finally, this year we are continuing the investments we made for our students in previous years through increased counseling and mental health support at school sites with the investments our Board of Trustees has approved. Ultimately, our goal is for our students to be happy and healthy because that establishes the best foundation for academic success in school.

Visit capousd.org for more information.

The Capistrano Dispatch September 23–October 13, 2022

St. Anne School 32451 Bear Brand Road, Laguna Niguel st-anne.org | @stanneknights St. Anne School in Laguna Niguel is an independent Roman Catholic school that has been educating children from preschool through grade 8 for the last 30 years. The school provides a supportive learning environment where each child is inspired to pursue their highest level of academic achievement, spiritual formation, and character development. The collaborative community of inspirational teachers, dedicated administrators, and committed parents ensures students are empowered to explore their God-given gifts, discover their passions, and envision their future as a positive influence on Page 18

Early Childhood to Upper School, our everyday leaves a lifetime impact on our students.

A vigorous liberal arts academic program and expert faculty challenge and inspire students to discover, learn, grow and excel to their fullest potential. Opportunities abound in arts, athletics, STEAM, experiential and service learning, and leadership.

St. Margaret’s students are known for their character, poise, thoughtfulness and integrity.

An inclusive, loving community rooted in shared values and our Episcopal identity is the foundation for a transformative student life program that fosters belonging, life skills, purpose and well-being, instills a strong moral compass and inspires responsibility, leadership and service to the world.

The school’s reputation for the depth and quality of its education brings more than 150 colleges and universities to campus annually to recruit its graduates.

the world.

St. Anne School develops much more than a student’s academic achievement. With a strong Student Support Services department, all St. Anne students benefit from a team focused on physical, personal, and mental well-being. Students in lower and middle school are offered a variety of electives and special classes such as orchestra, studio art, digital media production, design and engineering, and creative writing. Guided by the teachings of the Catholic Church, St. Anne School offers a vibrant Campus Ministry program where students are encouraged to participate in Christian service, class retreats, Masses, and spiritual leadership while growing a deeper connection to their faith. After-school programs such as the award-winning HarmonKnights show choir, the school play, and a variety of sports teams offer opportunities for students to continue to explore and grow.

We invite you to see all that St. Anne School has to offer at our Admissions Open House on November 3, 2022. Contact the Office of Admission at 949.371.9932 for details or visit st-anne.org/openhouse. thecapistranodispatch.com

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UNIVERSITIES USE TEST-BLIND, OPTIONAL APPROACH FOR SAT/ACT SCORES By Keaton Larson

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ecently, universities in California and across the nation are shifting away from standardized tests including the SAT and ACT as a required component of college applications.

More than 1,830 universities in the United States did not require SAT and ACT scores for

fall 2022 admissions, and the trend will likely be the same for fall 2023 admissions, according to data from FairTest, the National Center for Fair & Open Testing.

In the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic, many colleges across the nation, including the University of California and the

The Capistrano Dispatch September 23–October 13, 2022

California State University systems, no longer required the SAT and ACT for 2020 admissions applications. This action remained in place for those applying for fall 2021 and fall 2022 admissions as well.

Although the pandemic spurred the suspension of the use of standardized tests in the admission process, the importance and efficacy of these standardized tests came into question before 2020.

The largest example comes from the University of California’s former president, Janet Napolitano, who requested the Academic Senate of the UC system review the use of standardized tests in the admissions process in January 2019.

Although the Standardized Testing Task Force, convened by the UC Academic Senate, recommended the current use of standardized tests until the UC system develops its own test, the UC Board of Regents adopted Napolitano’s five-year plan to phase out the use of the SAT and ACT in admissions by 2025—when a new test will be adopted or no standardized test will be used.

Critics have long argued that the use of standardized tests such as the SAT and the ACT discriminate against students of color from low-income areas and are influenced by parental education levels and access to test prep courses and materials.

As reported by Los Angeles Times in May 2020, ACT and the College Board, the non-

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profit organization that runs the SAT, dispute such criticism, asserting that the tests are not biased; rather, they “reflect existing inequities in access to quality education.”

The standardized tests, the College Board and ACT further argued, “offer a uniform and helpful yardstick for use, in tandem with grades, in assessing students in high schools across the country,” LA Times reported.

The California State University, the largest four-year higher education system in the country, also voted to discontinue the use of SAT and ACT scores in admissions after the CSU’s Admission Advisory Council “found that the SAT and ACT tests provide negligible additional value to the CSU admission process,” according to a media release.

The question moving forward for parents and high school students applying to college is whether universities they are considering use a test-blind approach—scores will not be used in making admissions decisions—or whether the tests will be made optional, as is the case for many universities in other states.

The UC and CSU systems, as well as dozens of other out-of-state college systems such as Washington State University and City Universities of New York, are taking a test-blind approach to admissions.

Students could still submit scores to determine eligibility for certain scholarships, post-enrollment class placement, and statewide eligibility for admission guarantees.

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CRIB TO COLLEGE

SADDLEBACK PREPARES STUDENTS FOR TRANSFER SUCCESS

By C. Jayden Smith

S

addleback College has been a trusted, popular alternative option to a four-year university for Orange County students for years, offering a variety of academic programs and pathways for success.

However, for those who desire to transfer to a University of California (UC) or California State University (CSU) school, Saddleback is adept at helping students along the way.

More than 3,500 Saddleback students transfer to four-year universities, according to the school, including some beyond California.

Within the state, the most popular destinations include UC Irvine, UCLA, UC San Diego, CSU Fullerton, CSU Long Beach, and San Diego State University.

The prospect of saving money is another well-chronicled reason to attend Saddleback for two years. Starting at Saddleback and transferring to UCI instead of going to the university for four years saves students $28,700 in tuition, or $11,196 for waiting to attend CSU Fullerton, according to Saddleback.

Before planning to transfer, students should be cognizant of how to succeed and set themselves up for success while at Saddleback.

To achieve matriculation, or meeting requirements to enter the school, Saddleback assigns a status of “Required” or “Not Required” to each application. Most applications receive the Required designation, meaning students must participate in a three-step process to continue.

The process includes an online orientation, in which students must complete all sections of the New Student module and pass a final exam to receive credit.

Obtaining initial math and English placement is the second step. Students can either complete short Guided Self Placement surveys for each subject and receive placement, or submit a placement request while including a certified high school transcript that lists completion of math and English courses from ninth to 11th grade and a non-weighted Grade Point Average of 3.0 or higher.

Finally, students must go through the Advisement and First Semester Plan module that helps them determine a potential major and define educational goals.

Students should also see the Clearing Prerequisites page on Saddleback’s website to learn how to satisfy prerequisites.

During potential transfers’ two years at Saddleback, the counseling department can play a significant role in helping students to remain on track and prepared for the road ahead.

Counselors can provide advice and a listening presence to guide people in finding academic goals, answering questions, and developing strong academic skills. They also can help with time management and balancing work schedules with hours that students spend in class, studying, or commuting.

Rita Soultanian, director of the Career and Re-Entry Center within Saddleback’s Counseling Division, wrote in an email that the college’s classroom instruction and comprehensive student support make the institution successful in preparing students to transfer.

Those support services include academic planning, health and mental health care, and basic needs support, such as food, gas cards, and laptop loans.

Soultanian added that counselors ensure students meet requirements and connect them to resources outside of counseling.

“A counselor fulfills the important role of providing holistic academic, career, and personal counseling while helping students find their learning pathway and “Students who interests,” she work with a wrote. “They counselor regularly also expose students to throughout their educational time at Saddleback opportunities are more likely to that they may have thought transfer in a timely they never manner, avoid had.” taking unnecessary Given the number of courses, and earn available transcertificates and fer opportunilocal degrees along ties, students that begin the way.” working with their counRita Soultanian, director of the selors early Career and Re-Entry Center can identify the required classes they must take. Counselors also are well-informed of the transfer criteria that can change regularly.

“In addition, each year, it is not uncommon to see students reaching out to their instructional faculty, as well as their counselors,” Soultanian wrote. “Students who work with a counselor regularly throughout their time at Saddleback are more likely to transfer in a timely manner, avoid taking unnecessary courses, and earn certificates and local degrees along the way.”

Regarding steps students should take to be successful at Saddleback, she recommends

The Capistrano Dispatch September 23–October 13, 2022

meeting with a counselor before enrolling in the first class, attending specialized transfer and career workshops, and having a semester-by-semester academic plan approved by a counselor.

Saddleback’s Transfer Center also provides a wealth of knowledge and opportunities for students planning to make a move.

It hosts events including a Transfer Fair, where representatives from dozens of California and out-of-state schools meet with students and share information about their university. Other events include appointments for representatives from one school to come and talk to students, or numerous kinds of workshops.

The workshops range from CSU Transfer and Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) and UC Transfer Admission Guarantee (TAG) sessions to opportunities to learn the basics of planning to transfer and how to apply to a UC school.

Saddleback has secured articulation agreements with both CSU and UC campuses, which identify courses comparable to transfer school requirements and ensure that coursework completed at Saddleback satisfies general education and lower-level, major-specific requirements elsewhere. Students can obtain an ADT in numerous majors, including anthropology, elementary teacher education, and kinesiology, to transfer to a CSU campus.

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Regarding admission into one of six participating UC schools, students can sign on to the TAG program during the semester they apply to transfer to receive an early review of their academic records and guidance about major preparation, among other benefits.

Articulation specialists are also available on campus for people to approach with questions or additional information.

The Transfer Center offers a bevy of resources, including tutoring, a Student Support Hub, and links that provide information regarding CSU and UC schools, other California colleges, out-of-state institutions, and more.

Soultanian added that students who discover a Learning Pathway early will more easily identify transfer schools and career options.

“Talk to family, friends, and instructors about how they discovered their career and made their four-year college transfer decisions, so you can gain insight from their experiences,” she wrote.

Call the Transfer Center at 949.582.4328, visit room 225B in the Student Services Center, or email sctransfer@saddleback.edu for more information.

To schedule an appointment seven days in advance or later, call the academic counseling office at 949.582.4572. Students can also reach that number for a quick 15-minute session to have a question answered, or email sc-ecounselor@saddleback.edu. thecapistranodispatch.com

The Capistrano Dispatch September 23–October 13, 2022

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