Capistrano Valley High School

I went to Capo in the late 80's. I was very intelligent, but was one of the students that fell through the cracks and dropped out. The school officials knew I was struggling with issues at home, but there was very little outreach to me. School should have been a sanctuary, a refuge from my crazy life, but it wasn't. As for the academic material, many of my classes were about memorizing information for tests - which I promptly forgot if I even bothered at all - there was zero critical thinking. I was the invisible and troubled child in the room that was never engaged. I ended up taking the GED the year after I should have graduated. There were quite a few students like me that you will never hear about, but we existed then and probably still do now. I went on to carry a 3.9 GPA in college and a successful career, so my story has a happy ending - but I know there are ones who aren't as lucky.

I went to Capo, as well as my older sister and younger brother! All three of my boys went to capo, my youngest is a senior this year! Gotta love Capo! Go Cougars!
--Submitted by a parent

Although my kids did not do particularly well in his class -- because it's tough and the students are required to think in depth about what they write -- they agree that Dr. Corbett was the best teacher they ever had. I'm glad he will not change his teaching style and will say the things that need to be said in order to help students develop into independent critical thinkers instead of automatons.
--Submitted by a parent

CVHS is really an amazing school that is a source of pride here in Mission Viejo. The biggest gem is the guidance department. My son's academic advisor did everything should could to take care of my son and he will be attending UC Berkeley next year after a great educational experience in the AP Program at this school. CVHS is unique because it has the IB Program as well, and my son took certificate classes from IB in Spanish and Physics. Many of the full diploma IB students are going off to amazing schools. Off the top of my head, there are graduates this year attending Stanford, Harvard, Penn, Washington University St. Louis, Northwestern, Johns Hopkins, Rice, Georgetown, Columbia, etc... The facilities are kept in great condition for an older school and a new theater will be built next year and open in 2010. Administration is great. Go Cougars!!
--Submitted by a parent

I am a parent of a Freshman at Capo and am thrilled my daughter is attending this school! The academics are challenging, the teachers are motivated to teach, and the Principal takes an active interest in the students. I've also received wonderful support from the Guidance dept.
--Submitted by a parent

The school is very excellent. But the administration at lunch, could be a little laid back. The Basketball team will go far if they acheive their goals.
--Submitted by a parent

My daughter is a senior at Capo and loves all the programs available. The administration walks around at lunch and break to associate with the students. The guidance counselors are fabulous. They are one of the few schools that has an IB program. There is a great community college across the street if that is the route your student will be taking. They have a great food service and the office is very organized and knows about the programs going on.
--Submitted by a parent

This school has done wonders for my daughter. She has so many opportunities at capo that I never would've believed existed. She loves its motivating atmosphere and the stimulating teachers. Capo is a great school for all students alike.
--Submitted by a parent

This school shows complete commitment to the students and both of my daughters are receiving an excellent education. A few classes are overcrowded, but overall most classes seem to have about 25-30 students. The teachers are very nice and sincere and work really hard for the students. The school has great clubs like the National Honor Society, Cougars for Character, and CSF and ieven though my kids aren't in AP or IB they are still doing fine. They hope to go to Arizojna State.
--Submitted by a parent

My son had an excellent time on the track program at CVHS and got looked at by good colleges. He is now attending Northwestern University and thanks Capo Valley for the quality of education he was given in the Advanced placement classes at the school.
--Submitted by a parent