Stratford School

24741 Chrisanta Drive

Mission Viejo, CA 92691

16 Reviews

School District
Grade

PK-8
Type

private

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Reviews

Submitted by parent on May 25, 2016

My daughter is in third grade and this is our third year at Carden Academy. We LOVE this school! When we had to make a decision between Carden and public school, it was very clear to us that for about the same amount of money that we would spend on after school program at public school, we were getting SO much more in every aspect at Carden. It was really a no-brainer. Carden Academy not only offers superb education, but also puts emphases on building children's character, their confidence and self esteem, which I believe, are such important qualities. I know these qualities combined with great education will help my daughter make right decisions and not being influence by peer pressure when she goes out to the "big world". We also love all the experiences my daughter and we, as parents, get to have at Carden. It truly feels like a big family. We are looking forward to several more years at Carden.
Submitted by parent on May 02, 2016

My children have attended Carden Academy for many years. In fact, I have had 2 go all the way through, and 1 now in his last year. I have watched Carden Academy evolve into more of an updated school enabling the students to keep up with modern science and times, while still keeping its roots firmly planted. When I say roots, I mean the core basics which are definitely lacking in the public schools I have seen. When a child leaves Carden, they are able to read the toughest of classic literature, write eloquent essays and definitely think on their own. Solid morals and values are encouraged and are an every day part of their lives from the beginning, and they are shown with examples of wonderful teachers, who are positively there for the love of teaching! All subjects taught seem to intertwine with each other on different levels (ex. history lesson may carry over into an art project in art class). Carden has definitely been a rounding experience for my children, and one day I know they will thank their dad and I for the sacrifices we chose to allow them the privilege of attending Carden. Thank You to All Teachers and Staff! And thank you to Miss Mae Carden for being such a pioneer.We will miss you for certain..... From a Grateful Family not related or paid, just honored to attend.
Submitted by parent on April 27, 2016

I can't say enough about this incredible school. Whether by watching assemblies and programs, observing in the classrooms, or through the happy words from the mouths of my children, my husband I have witnessed the amazing experience that is Carden Academy. We find it is incredibly refreshing to have found a school that places such an importance on excellence in education--all the while, instilling a passion for learning. Everyday, our children are eager and excited to go to school. And why wouldn't they be? Each morning they are greeted by name and enter into a warm and nurturing classroom for a full day of learning. Carden Academy has been a lifeline for our children. Not only have they transitioned from their previous school, they have transitioned and are flourishing--and that is because of the amazing staff and community of Carden Academy!
Submitted by parent on October 08, 2015

We are just starting our fourth year at Carden Academy and our experience has been wonderful. Carden provides a very well rounded curriculum, while also focusing on building character, integrity and values. The small teacher/studio ratio is outstanding, providing the teachers the time to focus attention on each individual child in their classroom. The entire staff at Carden is kind, warm and encouraging. I absolutely love Carden and my children do too.
Submitted by parent on October 06, 2015

Very Good if you are looking for a school with small class sizes and an organized traditional school setting. They teach character qualities and manners which is very important to me. All the teachers and staff know all the kids names. There are many opportunities to be involved as a parent with the school. Our particular class has play dates outside of school on a regular basis and there really is a sense of community. The facilities may be a little on the older side if compared to some of the other local private schools but everything else this school has to offer makes up for it.
Submitted by other on August 11, 2015

I wasn't able to trust the staff > :[ too fond of themselves gave all the extra money to the coachesas an advanced student they did not challenge me >:[no respect to the students needs and thoughts :'[lack of tech >:/too small campus
Submitted by parent on June 03, 2015

Our child is finishing her 2nd year at Carden Academy. We could not be more grateful for the focused teaching and love that takes place inside the dated physical facility. My child looks forward to going to school daily we have seen the academic growth and emotional confidence that this school has fostered. Teachers and staff members know each child by name. This year, the school started to fully utilize the park on campus for science to cement learning inside the classroom. We appreciate that tests and grades come home on a weekly basis so we know exactly which area we need to focus on at home with our child. We are especially impressed that the interdisciplinary approach is not rhetoric at this school. The PE coaches are fabulous and the program is well rounded. With the small class size (14 in our child's class), all academic work up to 3rd grade can be completed during school. This allowed us to specially supplement what our child needs or wants to do outside of school. We strongly feel that Carden Academy provides a strong academic and morale foundation for our child.
Submitted by parent on April 27, 2014

We are so excited about starting this school in the Fall. We have been to many events so far (2 Open Houses, Country Fair, 20 year birthday celebration of the school). Every time I attend an event it is VERY well organized. The staff is very friendly. The parents are welcoming. The school really cares about their students and it shows in the effort that is put forth by the students to achieve. My son will be going in to the 1st grade and I hope we will be able to continue through the 8th.
Submitted by parent on August 31, 2013

One more problem with Carden...they do not give out any homework in the primary grades. Not that I want my child spending hours doing homework, but they do need to start out with a little so they can learn study skills. Once our child reached 4th grade and started getting homework, it was like shell shock because there was no prior experience to build on. Study skills, organization. and responsibility were lacking because it was completely new.
Submitted by parent on February 05, 2013

I researched extensively before putting my two children in Carden. If you are looking for a private school that will not only challenge your child academically, but teach character, discipline, respect, strength and courage ....you will have found it at Carden. The teachers are loving and with an average class size of about 12-14, they actually KNOW your child. We pulled our 4th grader out of public school and my daughter came from Montessori. They LOVE school and actually look forward to going each day. Carden is a small school with a family atmosphere that truly cares. You will not be disappointed! My children have been there now for 1.5 years and I am so grateful to have found this school. It's a best-kept secret.
Submitted by parent on October 12, 2012

We have had our children at Carden Academy for 13 yrs. We expect to be there for many more. There is not a better school in Orange Cnty for developing great students w/ strong character & honorable ethics! Students learn excellent study habits in core academics & the arts (& a plus for parents, NO homework for students until 6th grade when they can actually do their own)... Children are taught to find joy in learning. Students enjoy daily PE, music, & Spanish classes, w/ wkly art class. Older student enjoy advanced math & in-depth science with "hand-on" labs. The teachers are dedicated to providing a comfortable learning environment & truly love their students. They go out of their way in & out of school to support students. The administrators are extraordinary--they really care about students & families--in & out of school. Many staff members have attended my children's important events outside of school. A definite plus is the outdoor play area, Pioneer Park--students actually can play in the dirt in a truly natural setting if they desire. I am not an employee of the school, I am not related to any anyone there--I am a completely unbiased parent who adores this school!
Submitted by parent on October 11, 2012

Carden Academy is a "one of a kind" school!!! Every teacher there is solely there due to the love of teaching, and it shows. Between the unsurpassed teaching method of Mae Carden combined with the new contemporary versions of Math & Science implemented, it is my opinion, this school is definitely the best in Orange County. With all that being said, I find the most valuable asset for my children in this school, has been the confirmation of honor, respect and core values being taught in a loving practical way. It becomes second nature for the children because it is learned thru example, and as a parent, it is nice for your children to witness other people striving for this besides just their parents. It has been a complete rounding experience from kindergarten all the way thru 8th grade. My 1st one so far to enter high school has been fully prepared. Thank you to ALL the staff @ Carden Academy
Submitted by parent on January 18, 2012

Carden is a unique school and a true gem. Wonderful staff, caring teachers, and great families. They maintain high standards in an environment that is nurturing, wholesome, and orderly. A character development program based on Judeo Christian values and traditions permeates school life. The academics are excellent and well rounded. Language, Science, History, Math are complemented by Foreign Language, Music, Art, and outdoor learning in the school's 3-acre nature preserve, school garden, and small creek. The Director has a true love for children and a lot of integrity. My three chilfren are going here - a huge financial sacrifice for us but worth every penney.
Submitted by other on October 31, 2011

This school has very fancy terms for all the regular teaching method used every where else. Overall an OK school. The teachers gave sweats as incentives for my daughter, and DS video game time as rewards a few times. Not what we would do at home. The teachers are knowledgable and caring but not consistent with the teaching result. A lot of the amenities on campus can use an upgrade. -- ex-parent.
Submitted by parent on September 08, 2011

Carden Academy provides a strong academic base in a nurturing and professional environment. I have four children that have attended Carden. My oldest is in public high school now and thriving in all advanced classes with all A's. Carden is structured, and they do stress self control. Laughing is of course permitted and encouraged, but out of control behavior is not. The school has addressed both the science and math curriculum recently. There is an advanced math track which will put children entering high school in Algebra II/Trig as freshman if so desired. The school stresses character development and is able to enforce good manners and citizenship.
Submitted by parent on May 10, 2010

Its a school that not only provides the basic education but also preparing our kids to be future leaders with ethics and morality which is not seen in other schools.
Submitted by parent on March 26, 2007

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