Oso Grande Elementary School

30251 Sienna Parkway

School District

Capistrano Unified
Grade

K-5
Teacher/Student Ratio

1:26
Type

public

School Map for Capistrano Unified School District

GreatSchools Rating

The school rating calculation is based on four ratings: the Student Progress Rating or Academic Progress Rating, College Readiness Rating, Equity Rating, and Test Score Rating each designed to show different facets of school success. Learn more about GreatSchools Ratings

Reviews

Submitted by parent on May 07, 2024

We feel extremely fortunate to have had two children in this school. Oso does a ton above and beyond and every teacher we have had truly wants to be there. We get the feeling this is a very sought after place to work as a teacher as they clearly go above and beyond. The community is also very supportive, raising over $100k a year for parent-donated upgrades to learning facilities. I can't imagine why anyone would choose private school over Oso - its the best!
Submitted by parent on April 06, 2024

Teachers put in minimal effort and expect parents to do a large portion of their job.
Submitted by parent on May 16, 2020

All Style no substance at Oso Grande
Submitted by parent on February 02, 2018

We love this school! My son’s teacher is so amazing and he’s thriving so well. We are so lucky to have moved to this neighborhood and be at this fantastic school!
Submitted by other on April 27, 2016

One of my good friend's child went to this school all through elementary grades. The child required special needs but was repeatedly bullied by the same group of kids. School authorities did nothing after many complaints, in fact, just chose to ignore the complaints. This family went through a lot of trauma during these years. Most supervising moms at the school are cliques who ostracize families not in their circles. A good school is not all about academics !!!! Of course not everyone has the same experience, but just be aware that all that looks rosy may have thorns...- Ladera parent
Submitted by parent on April 27, 2014

I have had two children of mine attend Oso Grande and one more to go. Here, you will see teachers who truly care about students, a strong school spirit, a beautiful campus, a focus on helping others and opportunities to excel. The students love their school and contrary to the outdated reviews posted here a few years ago, this school is way above average. I have met several parents from other Ladera elementary schools who said they wish their kids had been assigned to Oso Grande, which has a reputation as the best elementary school in Ladera Ranch. There is strong parental involvement, which makes a huge difference in academic achievement. The teachers work hard and the principal is always open to new ideas on improving the school. The PTA does a great job too. We are so lucky to be a part of this school!
Submitted by parent on April 26, 2014

My three children have been at this school of years. I think most of the teachers are great.
Submitted by parent on May 24, 2013

Basically after 2 years with 2 children, we got 1 great teacher & the rest were less than mediocre! Expect to have to pay for a private tutor for Math, esp after 3rd grade, staff teacher said they didn't like they way the were teaching it! Not consistent with implementing reward programs, Big Buddy, Plays, field trips, ETC. Not impressed with how Principal handles conflict between students and looking into other school options.
Submitted by parent on June 01, 2012

Oso Grande is an exceptional school! In reading the negative reviews, I don't think those people would be happy anywhere... Yes, Ladera and Chapparal may have higher test scores, but that is not a true measure of what makes a school great. Oso has an amazing leadership team, a strong staff, and a supportive community. My child loves school, and that is what matters...the joy of learning.
Submitted by parent on May 28, 2012

My son had excellent, dedicated teachers at Oso Grande. The principal is a truly gracious leader who really cares about the students.
Submitted by parent on September 12, 2011

This school underachieves. Compare it to other schools in Ladera, and you scratch your head as to why the test scores are so-so given our equal if not superior resources. Yes, scores are not the end all be all, but they are a factor in measuring progress. While LR and Chapparrel excel and improve, Oso's improvements are less than the district average. It surprises me that many Oso parents have been bragging about Oso's test progress. Our similar schools comparison have been abysmal for years whereas the other Ladera schools (including LR Middle) all compare favorably. Test scores are not my only criteria. While the teachers and administration are very nice and promote school spirit, Oso simply is not academically rigorous. My son was often bored in class and with his assignments and I have to work hard to challenge him beyond school. Like any other school, it's hit and miss with teachers -1 good, 1 ok, 1 bad. I'm sure other parents will attack my review as off-base/misinformed but having talked extensively to parents at the other schools and at Oso, I'm not drinking the Kood-Aid. Given the student, parent and financial resources, we really should be doing better.