There are not enough words to describe how special this school has been for us. Not only have my boys received a great education in small class settings, but we’ve gained a family. Teachers and staff become mentors and friends all while keeping learning interesting, fun and still challenging enough to push them to the next level. My boys can converse as easily with adults as well as their friends because they are constantly involved in conversations not only about school lessons but about life lessons and what’s going on in the world. We have truly loved our days with Big G (Mario Gonzales, principal) and his gang. We will miss them so!
Submitted by parent on August 02, 2024
I am thrilled to share my positive experience with Pacific Academy Encinitas. This small private school has truly been a gem for our family. With its incredibly low teacher-to-student ratio, each child receives the personalized attention they deserve. The teachers here are dedicated and attentive, tailoring their teaching methods to meet each child's unique learning needs.The school community vibe is warm and welcoming, making it feel like an extended family. It's clear that the staff genuinely care about the students' well-being and academic growth. Our children have thrived in this nurturing environment, and we couldn’t be happier with the individual attention and support they receive daily.If you're looking for a school where your child will be seen, heard, and taught to their level, PAE is a fantastic choice. Highly recommend!
Submitted by other on July 16, 2024
I was a student here. I have to say that my experience was traumatic. Bullying is rampant (especially in highschool), and teachers often dismiss incidents as "he said, she said" situations, even when the evidence is clear, and even when parents get involved. Favoritism is a huge issue as well, with some students seemingly incapable of doing wrong in the eyes of their teachers. These students are even included in listening to negative gossip about their peers from the teachers.While there are a few great teachers (and the front desk staff are probably the best people there), they are the exception rather than the rule. The school accepts practically anybody, including students who have been expelled from other places. Many of the kids there face various challenges, whether behavioral, on the spectrum, or learning disabilities, making the school function more like a special education institution, (which is certainly what it should be classified as).In my personal experience, the bullying rarely (if ever) got resolved, and students/other teachers would hear if a parent or student would privately speak to a teacher or the principal, meaning there was really no privacy.The social dynamics are intense and can be hugely stressful; stepping out of line with the favored students can lead to ostracization, and pure hatred, and given its small size, usually the entire school hears about it and oftentimes takes the side of the golden student. It is impossible to escape conflicts or negative attention. The education is fine (but not worth the price), and there are some unique experiences and definitely one-on-one instruction if a student is behind or needs help, but the overall environment is toxic. For those without specific needs that require a small school setting, I would not recommend this school.
Submitted by parent on March 15, 2011
My daughter is a sophomore. She was not happy in her previous high school and transferred to Pacific Academy in Feb. 2011. The Principal, teachers and staff at Pacific Academy are really caring about students. Pacific Academy's curriculum is rigorous and their graduates got into good colleges. They offer regular, honors, AP classes and online courses. The teachers are very knowledgeable and supportive. Whenever my daughter has homework problems, she always gets teachers' extra help. Pacific Academy focus on project based learning, which makes the learning really fun. They teach students to respect the environment, respect each other and has global view. The school arrange outdoor education every month. Students do service learning, learn about recycle, go kayaking, or mountain climbing. My daughter really loves this school. She has never been more motivated or happier. I am really happy about Pacific Academy and highly recommend Pacific Academy to all parents and students !