Journey School

Posted: April 24, 2025

This is our first year at Journey School and it's been an amazing experience for our family. My daughter is in love with her first grade teacher and has made so many friends. Even though Journey's Waldorf approach takes things slower in the early years, I'm amazed at how much my child is learning and most importantly, how much she loves school. She does art and music and movement in class every day, and comes home singing the songs that she's learned. It feels so good to drop her off in the morning as she leaps out of my car to go greet her friends. I love this survey because it was so easy to answer the questions because it's as if they are catered to Journey School. There is more emotional support and family engagement than I thought possible from a public school. One thing I can't really speak to is special education because my daughter does not use the services, so I just gave an average rating for that question. My best friend works in special ed so I've learned a little about how important early intervention is for some students. I learned in the school tour that as a smaller school, Journey isn't able to offer specialized programs for kids with higher learning needs, so I feel it might not be the best fit for a child who would benefit from more explicit early intervention. Just my thoughts. Good luck in your school search!

Posted: April 24, 2025

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Posted: November 20, 2024

A public Waldorf school is rare. This charter being a part of the public Capo Unified School District is the reason our children can attend (read: tuition-free).
We were in the hybrid program for 3 total years of kindergarten with two kids and in our 4th year of the seat based program.
Overall this school continues to be the right choice for our family and our kids each year. The diversity of the families that attend, priority on allowing children to learn developmentally, and focus on community are key reasons we chose the school.
Of the 5 teachers my kids have had thus far, two were average (but have since left the school) and the other three excellent.

Parent involvement is a requirement - which is communicated at the very first meeting with the school. I've found the more you can be on campus helping, the more "in the know" you'll be. This seems to be true of any school. The school as a whole also seems to have hit their stride with communicating to the school community at large and I feel much more informed on a regular basis than when we started in 2019.

Academically we've felt the school curriculum to be right for our children. As a public school, Journey must/does meet all California school standards, like any other public school. In addition the school provides Waldorf education including: art, music (instrumental/vocal), hand work/fiber arts, cooking, farming, and more.

Any issues with students fighting have been addressed fully and immediately with parents and students.

We were at Journey during the pandemic and felt the school did the best possible for their students in the hardest of situations. My children's teachers continue to promote good health hygiene and staying home to rest and heal if sick.

A note on Special Ed:
Journey is in the process of earning full Waldorf accreditation and the framework of their program will change soon due to that, as far as I understand. Journey is not a Special Ed school and thus far has been operating with the CUSD contracted support teachers and CUSD allotted funding which isn't need based.
Our 504 process was quick, straightforward, and has been effective. We do hope for GATE or gifted programs in the future to support neuro-divergent students with asynchronous development.

Posted: November 20, 2024

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Posted: October 22, 2024

As parents of two children, one in general education and one in special education, we've had a mostly wonderful experience at this school.

For our child without a learning difference, the teachers are exceptional—passionate, knowledgeable, and genuinely dedicated to their students' success. The school's rigorous curriculum sets high expectations, which has challenged her to grow academically. We’ve appreciated the developmental approach to teaching, where teachers meet students with engaging activities while continually encouraging growth.

Overall, we felt the special education team was knowledgeable and committed, making sure our child received the support needed to succeed. However, as a smaller school, there are limitations in terms of the resources available for special education services. Large school districts can offer more specialized support, resources, and programs, which is why we ultimately decided to transfer our child with a learning disability to our local district school. This decision was the right choice for our family, allowing our child to access a broader range of resources. We did this knowing we would be doing drop off and pick up at two different schools.

There’s a strong expectation of community involvement, which has helped our family feel connected and engaged.

Overall, this school is a wonderful place for learning and growth, and we are grateful for the strong foundation it has provided our children.

Posted: October 8, 2024

I went to this school and I want to go back but this school is not good fights always and I am long by the way

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Posted: April 19, 2022

This is a terrible school. They are very unorganized, let students bully other students, the teachers and principal are very unprofessional! The students half way know the work that’s being taught, they’re just passing these students. I would not recommend. The teachers talk to the students crazy and they all cover each other

Posted: April 19, 2022

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Posted: June 24, 2019

Posted: June 24, 2019

Waldorf Education as an alternative to lecture based education serves visual and imaginative learners. Unfortunately, the staff have not been able to bridge the gap between resource and main lesson.

Posted: June 24, 2019

Posted: June 24, 2019

There is no homework given other than independent reading. This concept is supported by research.

Posted: June 24, 2019

Children who receive resource support are challenged to complete two opposite learning activities. The special education teachers and the classroom teachers do not communicate and work together though they are a couple yards away.

Posted: June 24, 2019

Posted: June 24, 2019

The concept is so wonderful however the execution is less than stellar. As a Waldorf School, the expectation is for an inclusive, embracing environment however the reality is it is very clique-y. The biggest struggle we had was with the lack of cohesiveness between the special education services and the main lessons.

Posted: April 21, 2019

Teachers and admin are on it. Very healthy culture

Posted: April 21, 2019

They have very little homework at Journey - allows kids to be kids

Posted: April 21, 2019

Depends on the teacher, some are very strong and some are emerging/beginning teaching careers

Posted: April 21, 2019

Admin developed a wonderful behavioral support process and RESPECT motto

Posted: April 21, 2019

Organized, thorough, professional and responsive. The school is very lucky to have such strong leadership

Posted: April 21, 2019

Contract with CUSD special ed. And support is poor

Posted: April 21, 2019

Amazing public option, very unique teaching methods, fantastic leadership and culture!

Posted: February 9, 2019

Your experience here will be very teacher dependent. The good teachers will go out of their way to get to know and support a child, the rest seem to be on holiday....

Posted: February 9, 2019

If you have already instilled these qualities into your child you may see some loss here as they interaction with students who have no consequences at home and little while at school. The staff have no consistent policy or training in how to instill students with these qualities.

Posted: February 9, 2019

The leaders need training in the Waldorf method of education and support in integrating it into a public setting.

Posted: February 9, 2019

The support staff for students with need is contracted via the CUSD who tend to send people with little or no training in Waldorf education. Thus a child may be receiving two differing message on how to address a difficulty and lose class time to no affect.

Posted: February 9, 2019

Too often the bully remains at this school while the child or children being bullied are pulled out. There are little or no consequences for the bully and no seeming effort made to ensure the behavior has ceased or been corrected.

Posted: February 9, 2019

Homework seems to be age appropriate and of a quantity not burdensome to the child or parent.

Posted: February 9, 2019

Very average. The teachers here are either very good at what they do or horrible. Those with a Waldorf back ground and those with a public education background do not know how to meld these into a cooperative and effective whole. Many are inexperienced and need much more education, mentoring, and support so that they can provide the whole child education promised by this school.

Posted: December 4, 2017

I was warned by several parents who left the school for this exact reason. Their child was being bullied and nothing was done.

Posted: December 4, 2017

No organization, no continuity. This school does not have the funding to run a special ed department properly. After switching to public school, I now see how it’s meant to be run. My child is doing much better now.

Posted: December 4, 2017

This school is still trying to find it’s identity and figure out what works. Not accommodating, let’s kids run wild without any consequence for disgraceful behavior. Does not follow through on discipline. No systems in place that are effective. Totally disorganized.

Posted: December 4, 2017

They hire brand new, inexperienced teachers with no classroom management skills making it impossible for kids to learn effectively.

Posted: December 4, 2017

My kid is psychologically scarred after attending this school.

Posted: December 4, 2017

Posted: December 4, 2017

I wish I could go back in time and take back every minute we wasted at this school. All we can do is try to catch our child up after the damage this school caused.

Posted: January 11, 2017

I've noticed that the bullying incidents that come up are usually from new kids that come in and don't realize that things are different at Journey. My son tells me stories about how some kids act to get attention and to fit in, but he feels that's silly because "everyone accepts each other at school." There have been a couple of incidents that have come up in the last couple of years in other classes but from what I can tell, the school handles things well and quickly.

Posted: January 11, 2017

My child wasn't able to get a speech IEP at our last school. They kept saying the problems would go away. My child's teacher was the one who helped push the IEP through at Journey. I am grateful for the loving care and attention that my child gets at Journey. Also, the special ed team comes from the school district so I know the teacher has the training needed.

Posted: January 11, 2017

We came here with another administrator who was amazing. It was hard to accept the new director at first, but now we've come to see all of his wonderful qualities and we feel that he is exactly what the school needs to make Journey even better.

Posted: January 11, 2017

Ethics and compassion are an important part of the education at Journey

Posted: January 11, 2017

I have two children at Journey and I am in awe of both of their teachers. They really know my kids and they inspire me in so many ways.

Posted: January 11, 2017

Journey wait until children are in third grade before they are given meaningful homework. Prior to that, parents are asked that their child reads or is read to for 20 minutes, given chores, and be allowed to play. So much research supports not overloading children with homework. My middle schooler has a couple of hours of homework a night and that's manageable. That way he gets enough sleep, stays healthy, plays All Star soccer, and has time to be a kid.

Posted: January 11, 2017

Journey School has been such a blessing for our family. Although my children never complained about our former, public school, I spent so much time volunteering at their school and helping in the classrooms that I was able to see what really happens in the "traditional" system. Journey School doesn't focus on tests or worksheets, but rather, it teaches students in such creative ways that children really want to learn. It took a bit of work to get my hyper-educated husband on board with the Waldorf approach, but now he is totally sold. He even asked me to get him a couple of Journey School license plate holders for his car that say: "Journey School, Where Education is a Journey, Not a Race." Big smile! :)

Posted: December 12, 2016

This school from the surface presents to be Waldorf. But take heed to the words on their website...."Waldorf Inspired". Their was no sense of community. It is the same old cliques and same old Orange County vibe. There is no communication from the teacher....literally none and they rely on moms to inform others....so you better be in the with the in crowd or your poor child is the one in the corner who is never prepared for any activities. Beware of this school if you are in need of IEP services....the Speech Provider says she will meet with your child per your IEP and then your child tells you its been over 3 weeks since any meeting or communication with the provider. Teacher and Admin may present as nice and they probably are but they are not professional and they lack education, enforcement of rules and laws, and they are dismissive. Its a sham.

Posted: December 12, 2016

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Posted: August 27, 2015

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Posted: August 27, 2015

My kids have been students at Journey School for the past three years. Overall it has been a really good place for them to learn. The school utilizes Waldorf methods to teach both Waldorf and CA state standards. I find that Journey's developmental approach to teaching instills a love of learning in my children. Using the development approach, teachers are able to capture the children’s interest when they are natural inclined to absorb that material. They offer a lot of hands on learning experiences and specialty programs too. Music and art are integrated into academics. Gardening, knitting, cooking and other practical skills are taught early to develop fine motor skills and responsibility. Compassion for each other and the earth is part of daily life at Journey School. Core academics are taught in a meaningful, developmentally appropriate way. Field trips include plays, overnight camping, visits to farms and more. My kids are motivated to go to school and have developed a curiosity and confidence that will serve them well in the future. Faculty and administration work hard to keep the lines of communication open between home and school. I have met one on one with my kids’ teachers and administration many times and feel they are responsive and helpful. Parents are very involved in the school community and work hard to host festivals, events and fundraisers. My oldest child just graduated from Journey – she’s moved on to a public high school and is taking accelerated courses, including Geometry, as a freshman. She felt very prepared for 9th grade.

Posted: August 15, 2015

We began at Journey last year after two years at a traditional public school and Journey has been such a blessing for our family. We truly value the hands-on learning and a curriculum that is so well-suited for how our children learn. Starting in first grade, the teachers travel with the students to the next grade. We've been so impressed by how both of our kids' teachers have come to know them for who they are and to truly understand how they learn--including their strengths and challenges. We believe whole-heartedly in the slow approach to learning; and the fact that our children are simply happier at Journey than they were at their old school, is what makes Journey School the "village" that we are lucky enough to call home.

Posted: March 4, 2015

I was tricked into joining this school as from the surface it appears to be a wonderful place where all types of people are tolerated. When you go deeper into the curriculum you realize it is nothing like that at all. Most parents don't bother to research the founder, Rudolf Steiner, and his beliefs. First of all he was not a parent so he truly knows nothing about children. Secondly he believed that the white race is the supreme race and will slowly brainwash your child with this theory so upon graduation your child is a soldier for the Illuminati. Also, the staff and faculty are so completely brainwashed that they really have no idea as to what is being taught. Except Shaheer Faltas who is notorious in the Waldorf world for being brought to a school that is otherwise failing. His job is to resurrect the fallen financial structure of the school and then he will move on to the next one that is in trouble. Stay away from here as it is facade to get the parents who are all about natural, healthy alternatives to public schools. Parents who should and would home school are their prey.

Posted: January 31, 2015

Hello, Please take the rave reviews about this school with a grain of salt. Note how many of them were written in the same time frame (a request for positive loading perhaps?) & that less than glowing reviews don't stay on-site long. As I write this my child is requesting one star; however, since this school does have some very good teachers, that would not be fair. As noted, Ms. B is an excellent, warm, and caring instructor. Others may also claim this accolade but, please note, your experience with this school is VERY teacher specific. Get a good one & all will be well. Have difficulty with any & wish to address it - watch your back & that of your child. Additionally, the school is growing too quickly & failing to integrate its' vaunted values into the ongoing character of the school within this growth situation. Bullying is to be watched for as the administration will scramble to cover up any incident which shows the school in a poor light rather than properly address issues. Parents who wish to improve the school & speak up are often shut down then driven out. Much is gloss. Seek out those who have left & hear them out; don't rely on the raves only.

Posted: May 15, 2014

If you are looking for a school where the teachers and staff really get to know your child and help them blossom into upright people who not only know how to think critically, but who also know how to care for themselves, others, and the environment, then Journey School is a good choice. We are so grateful to be a part of this wonderful school.

Posted: April 27, 2014

My child entered Journey Fall 2013 as a junior kindy. We have nothing but good things to say. His teacher, Mrs. B is the best teacher I've ever met. Her love & compassion for the children is commendable & truly genuine. One of the things I love the most about charter schools is the level of parent involvement. Journey is a community of parents, teachers & staff who work hard at molding the best, most creative children.

Posted: April 22, 2014

The Journey school provides the most wonderful learning experience for a child! The concept is progressive and yet the most basic tenets of life are at the core, creating a unique learning environment. The beautiful synergy in this school will bring forth excellent young people into our world, More children should have the Journey School experience! Expanding to make that possible is the goal.

Posted: April 6, 2014

My 2 boys have been at Journey School for 4 years. I love how creativity is included in almost all the educational experiences they are having. My 8th grader is fully prepared to transition into 9th grade. He is taking Algebra 1 this year and will be going into Geometry in high school. He writes great papers and is enjoying working on his 8th grade project, in which he was able to pick a topic he is passionate about. He is writing papers, doing a power point and will be presenting his project to members of the school community. He has loved his time there. His homework has bumped up from the level it was in 7th grade and he has about 1-1.5 hours a night. I feel this is preparing him for the load of high school as well. My 2nd grader loves learning and I love that his homework is to read 30 minutes every night and do a chore. Totally age appropriate. He loves reading and loves math. He will occasionally ask me for a math worksheet, which I have some on hand and pull out. But it isn't stressful, just fun. Such a change from when my oldest was in 2nd grade at our local public school, homework felt like a big chore then.

Posted: April 2, 2014

My student attended Journey for many years, loves it to this day, and is now near the top of the class in high school!

Posted: April 2, 2014

I love Journey because - small class sizes - Loving teachers who are focused on what is best for the students - tight knit community - Waldorf curruculum which focuses on whole child development not just academics - Fosters joy that I can see in my children and a love of learning - administration actually values parent involvement and takes feedback very seriously

Posted: April 2, 2014

Journey is a gem in the morass of OC public schools. Everyone (admin, teachers, parents and students) is committed to setting the standard for public Waldorf education. It's that rare place where the community continually strives to practice what it preaches. It's not perfect. It never will be, but the dedication of everyone involved is evident every day. There's a feeling of hope at this school that it's possible to make serious strides in changing public education. There's a greater school mission that everybody knows and wants to be a part of. Does it need the money? Absolutely! But money can't buy what is inherently happening at this school -- and that's to move the needle when it comes to public education in this country. Parking lot snafus, no hot lunch program and other logistical issues the school faces because of lack of funding are NOTHING compared to the other option available and that's having to to deal with regular public school admin who view your child as a cog in a wheel. We're new this year and didn't know what to expect. But what my family has experienced has inspired us. I will take Journey - warts and all - over a regular public school any day of the week.

Posted: April 2, 2014

We spent two years on the waiting list and finally made it in. Worth the wait. Because of moves, our daughter has been to private, public and now a charter school. This beats everything else--loving, whole child centered, academic excellence and just pure kindness fill the air and the school day. It's an honor to be a part of something so special.

Posted: April 1, 2014

My school is unique and nurtures creativity, stimulating the mind with all 5 senses of the body. My child is excited to go to school everyday and as a parent I am excited to participate in co-creating his learning environment. we also have a wonderful and gifted teacher.

Posted: April 1, 2014

Fantastic K - 8 Waldorf-inspired school in a beautiful setting. Our kids love coming to school here and as parents, we love seeing them learn and retain information in new ways. The community here is so supportive, it's just a special place. We feel our children are getting a well-rounded education in math, science, history and english and appreciate the extras like foreign language, music, physical activity, gardening, cooking, sustainability, nature and more. We also feel lucky that it's a public charter so all have the chance to attend. Thanks, Journey School!

Posted: April 1, 2014

I am a teacher at Journey so this may sound biased...I work at the best school that I have ever been to or taught at! After our gallery walk last week I could hardly be prouder than our little school that could! Every class that I walked into shined with amazing and artfully rendered student work, excellent board drawings and a warm and inviting atmosphere. I have spent more memorable moments here along side my dearest colleagues, my students parents and of course the loves of my universe...the children! How lucky we are to all be a part of this awe inspiring school?! I am looking forward to many more years here as a teacher, friend, colleague and lifelong learner in the ways of living the good life, its here!

Posted: April 1, 2014

This is more than a school - it's like a giant family where everyone has the same morals and integrity. It is a place where my child can thrive and learn to be a great human being. It is a magical world where

Posted: April 1, 2014

Journey represents true community. Our Waldorf inspired Chatter School is ever growning, well loved , and cutting edge. The community values inspired and balanced learning; based on the whole of the learning child. Our school thrives on parent particiption- time, spirit, and donations. One look at the photos on the website will leave you feeling enchanted. Dare to read the website details describing Journey, and you may just contemplate a move....

Posted: April 1, 2014

A school that values childhood, families and providing the highest level of educational experience for our children. This school is a true treasure. The program at this school is dynamic and contemporary and allows a child to develop confidence in their abilities and become critical thinkers. It is impossible not to see a bright future as I watch children at this school evolve. This is an amazing and compassionate place where education really can be magical.

Posted: March 28, 2014

Journey students are happy, healthy, imaginative, creative, caring and love their school. The teachers and staff and parents are so dedicated! We are thrilled.

Posted: January 22, 2014

We are in our second year here at Journey and the more I learn about the school, the more I love it. Why? 1) Waldorf approach is aligned with the latest research on brain development, and the optimal way that children learn in an age appropriate manner. For example, just last week, the teachers gave a talk with parents "What research says about success in life and how schools and parents can help". Much of the talk was based on a NYTimes best selling book called How Children Succeed - and much of the school's approach is in line with the latest recommendations! 2) The school helps to foster the 'light' and 'love of learning'. I think much of the rest of public school education with its focus on memorization and performance on test scores etc, rather than learning itself, just saps the life out of the student. 3) Sense of like-minded community - there is the saying 'it takes a village', that is really true here at Journey. It seems to me that the parents, teachers and administration really are committed to one thing in common - the well-being of the students. When I speak, the teachers and administration listen. I encourage you to learn more about the Waldorf! It has changed me.

Posted: December 2, 2013

Our son had a beautiful kindergarten year at this Waldorf inspired charter school. Now in 1st grade we continue to be satisfied with the small class size. (23 students) and additional teachers aide. We believe that the education of our child is not solely the responsibility of any school system so we constantly monitor our child's learning and provide support when needed. As for teacher quality, the majority of the teachers here are Waldorf certified and hold a master's degree. Most Common Core standards are embedded in the curriculum here. Students evidence their learning by the textbooks they create. Ingenuity and creativity are encouraged which is a rarity in today's data/ test driven school culture.

Posted: October 31, 2013

I think it's unfortunate for all those who have left Journey on such bad terms, as for me and my family we have overall been happy with Journey as a whole. (With the exception of the parking and no good hot lunch program) We have seen improvements with rules and conduct and have worked side by side with teachers and administrators to solve problems and feel like we received personable attention and the problems were solved respectably. My kids are treated fairly and they love school. No fights in the morning to go and they come home happy. I have volunteered at the school for the last 4 years and have seen the kids in their classroom at recess and lunch, etc. These Journey kids are happy! As for academics, once in the mid to upper grades these kids are being challenged in ways kids in traditional schools are not. It's fascinating to watch these kids learn things like times tables with movement! If your considering Journey, take a tour a check it out yourself. You'll know if its right for your family.

Posted: October 16, 2013

We love Journey! It's such a great community of parents, and the teachers are kind and obviously love what they do. My two boys started 2 years ago - when they were in 3rd and 5th grade. We were nervous that they would be welcomed into the tight knit group of kids - many who had known each other since Kindergarten - but they made instant friends and have built lasting relationships with many of the kids there. The studies are different from their last 'traditional' school - in which Journey students create their own 'text books'. It's more work, but they've retained so much more because of it! Plus the extra-curricular activities such as cooking, gardening, hand-work, music, and games have helped them become well-rounded children. Lastly, the 'compassionate campus' has helped the older students take on responsibility and help the kids become a greater community on the whole. Many 'graduated' (high school) students come back on major days such as the first day of school, Harvest Faire, the 8th grade projects, and the May Faire - a great testament to how much they love their experience at Journey. Many students go on to some of the most competitive high schools in the area.

Posted: October 15, 2013

We are new to Journey School this year and have absolutely loved our experience so far. The school provides such a nurturing, warm, and creative approach to educating and guiding our little ones. They strive to open their eyes to the beauty and miracles that surround them every day, which inspires their creativity and desire to learn. In 1 month of school, my kindergarten son is a different person. He has a new view of the world, new appreciation for all that is around him, and has come out of his shell. He used to cry every day at drop off for preschool and now has told me he wishes to live at school...what a huge change! We couldn't ask for a better place to send our child and feel blessed to be part of the Journey family.

Posted: October 13, 2013

Journey is a welcoming, nurturing, and hands on school. The teachers have a depth of experience in the public and Waldorf model of education and are very caring. We enjoy that the children have the same teacher from 1st-5th grade, which facilitates and easier flow between summer and fall, and helps create a cohesive class. I've also always been impressed that the principal is out front each morning, helping with the drop off flow and happily greeting students and teachers. Our grounds are great too. 6 gardens that the students maintain with parent help, natural playscapes, and the creek behind the school where K and grades take nature walks. Our children also benefit from the art that is interwoven in all the lesson plans. Drawing, painting, and knitting are a tangible way to create a deeper level of learning and retaining information. There are several parent classes that are available throughout the year, focusing on art, media literacy, and also parenting and relationships. We feel very lucky to be a part of the Journey community!

Posted: October 12, 2013

My daughter is in her 3rd year at Journey School. She is excited to go to school in the morning and speaks fondly of her days there. She went to an expensive private preschool and was coming home in tears all the time. So we now feel extremely blessed to be at Journey. I was a bit confused by some of the bad reviews, but then I thought about it. My absolute favorite restaraunt, the one I could eat at every night, has some one star reviews mixed in with the five stars. I guess some people just love to complain and search to find something negative to say. I'm just glad those negative people have already left the school. They are usually part of the problem and not the solution.

Posted: October 4, 2013

We are so grateful for having found this healthy and nurturing environment for our children. Kids get to be kids while learning how to be responsible, compassionate, whole human beings with integrity. While no place is perfect, every year of our 5 years here have gotten better and better! Nearly all the staff is Waldorf certified and many have nearly completed their Master's degree. Mentoring, dedication to staff development and the addition of differentiated learning continue to improve the quality and rigor of instruction. The results are evident when you speak with the kids. They are poised, articulate, and thoughtful. Their hearts are big. It is refreshing to see a campus where younger kids and older kids mingle easily in play without trying to prove to one another how "grown-up" they are in comparison. Parent involvement and constructive dialogue is the key here in making the "extras" available and in making sure the education meets each child's needs -- this is not a negative. This level of involvement should be the norm (versus the exception) in the education of all children. This is a school of choice. Understand how the curriculum fits with your family and choose wisely.

Posted: October 2, 2013

If you search for a school, which picks up your child with an age appropriate learning method, you will love this school. A lot of meaningful lessons with no stress to the child. School day structure where the free spirit has place to drive. Individuation for different types of learning always close to the matter of facts. Art and Nature go along with all at academics, nothing is missing. The children are gaining personal strengths hand in hand with knowledge and happiness.

Posted: August 10, 2013

very responsive and supportive admin... high caliber teaching. This is a place of community-based learning... head, heart, hands all in balance.

Posted: August 7, 2013

The children are engaged in learning through multiple modalities: visual, auditory and through movement. Additionally, the children are surrounded by beauty, music, the arts, and an attitude of reverence in caring for their surroundings. Journey recently was awarded the U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Award for their effective environmental education Eco-literacy program. My children are progressing beautifully in their social/emotional, academic and physical development. Most importantly, they love school now that they are at Journey!

Posted: June 28, 2013

This school is a problem child, hugely inconsistent. It has had many meltdowns over the years along with a huge turnover of administrators, teachers and many families. I laugh when I see these silly 5 star "gosh, everything is perfect..." Reviews . As a family who spent many years there, we know the good, the bad and the ugly. This school only works IF you're lucky enough to land a good teacher who can DISCPLINE their class AND if you have a good (no problem kids) class. The community is cliquish but warm and fuzzy from a distance. Works best for K thru first or second only if you want a slower start to your child's educational career but beyond that, you are gambling.

Posted: June 19, 2013

My child had a horrible experience at Journey School. She was slapped in the face three times, pushed, and threatened to be stabbed at school. Journey does not have a zero tolerance policy for bullying. My child was scared to go to school and would hide in the bathroom at recess. We took her out of the school mid year and will not be returning.

Posted: June 5, 2013

I really wish I could leave a 0 star rating. We left last year after being disgusted and disillusioned with with the cover ups going on in this school. My advice to new parents considering Journey School? Run.

Posted: May 11, 2013

The only way to prepare kids for the future is to teach them to be critical thinkers. Journey School does just that. It focuses on the well-being of the whole child, rather than only academics. Academics are important at Journey, but they're not the ONLY factor in what makes this a great school. The teachers are fantastic, the students respect each other more than any other school we've tried and the school community really cares for each other. Be sure to read up on Waldorf schooling before sending your children here. We are beyond happy, but parents only wanting a heavy academic focus (memorizing for high test scores) may not feel this is right for them. We also appreciate Journey's effort in eco-literacy. It feels good knowing our kids are growing healthy physically and mentally. We feel so blessed to be at Journey School!

Posted: March 30, 2013

Journey school is a treasure. I love this place and my son is soooo happy. He loves school and I see the teachers have love for my son, not just obligation to care for him, but love for him. They blew me away at parent teacher conference how well they know him. This is a school where children learn to develop as human beings in a safe and supportive environment. My son is 6 going into First grade and he is well rounded and smart. When he started at Journey he was having a very hard time, almost labeled ADD, but the teachers worked so closely with him he is now doing beautifully. I am very impressed and so happy he is there.

Posted: February 12, 2013

By looking at some of the ratings, I have to think that many of those parents didn't do their research on Waldorf education. Before you send your kid here, know it's not focused on heavy academics. This isn't a bad thing! What you get is a well-rounded child that has a positive outlook on school, with a love for learning. Speak to alumni of Journey -- they are honor students, award winners, and doing fantastic at their colleges. I believe there is a higher rate of college graduates, as well. Our experience at Journey has been amazing. I've never been at a school with such a community feeling. Most parents volunteer in the classroom, on nature walks, helping with festivals or in the garden. Many families help contribute financially to give these kids the best education possible. I am so thankful we found this school. Our kids are doing very well here after trying a few schools.

Posted: January 7, 2013

We are the most happiest parents in the world having our son in Journey School. This system is the one that any parent need to choose for their kids. We can't wait to have our other kids in this school. See how our son can't wait to go to school, how happy he wake up everyday; be part of this amazing community is just a gift from heaven to us. Thank you Journey School to allow us be part of you.

Posted: November 26, 2012

We have attended Journey School for 4 years. I have moments of doubt but it think that is a normal part of parenting when you are engaged in your children's education.No question, California has serious problems with education. I am thankful that I pulled my kids from our local school and moved them to Journey. I find it interesting that the more recent negative reviews are from parents who have not been at the school for a year or more. The changes have been more positive than negative. Compassionate Campus (trademarked or not..why that matters??) is an excellent program and has put the kids in the front seat of working as teammates across the grades. I have a middle school son who tells me daily about his younger buddy and the funny stuff his friends talk about. This alone reminds me why I drive so far for school each day. Society (mostly TV) today is pushing kids to grow up so fast that they have no time to be their age. Compassionate Campus (TM) has given my child the gift of noticing that he is growing up and appreciating the joys of childhood.

Posted: November 25, 2012

The updated website looks great and there are some good teachers on campus. The new "Compassionate Campus" which Journey won scholarship money for must be a joke. When you have to TradeMark a program you can bet the administration is looking to cash in on a side business. A compassionate campus has been a tenant of Waldorf schools for 100 years and it was why these types of schools where created in the first place. We no longer attend for the very reason that Journey School Administrators were NOT COMPASSIONATE and let our child get continually groped by another Boy, did nothing and asked us not to say anything so they dont have probelms renewing their charter. There have been many private lawsuites against this campus that have been won or settled out of court. This school is an embarrassment to Waldorf Eduction and Public Eduction at the same time. You get the worst of both worlds and TradeMarking a Compassionate Care program proves that the Administration is trying to cash in on 100 year old Waldorf teachings. Don't be fooled, it's all whitewashed and there's bad paint underneath.

Posted: June 17, 2012

We just finished our 3rd year at Journey school and we are so thankful for all the wonderful people that are at this school. From the parents to the faculty this school radiates happiness!!

Posted: June 5, 2012

Journey School is an outstanding school! We're so grateful for the well-rounded education our children are receiving at Journey. They're passionate about learning, have an appreciation for the arts, care about the environment and they care about others. Journey isn't for everyone but it's a perfect fit for us. Great administrator, teachers, parents and students.

Posted: May 9, 2012

Lots of conflicting reviews! It's obvious that it is a very emotionally based school. That is the big issue we had with Journey. Administration, staff, and parents are so caught up in the "feelings" of the school rather than the actual education. The May Faire, Fairy Market, etc are cute, but do not make up for lack of core academics. Unfortunately we witnessed academic laziness, low expectations, and serious disregard for core subjects. Also, they do not teach the art of navigating through text books, basic computer skills, study skills, or test taking skills. After leaving Journey and going to a more traditional education, we are so grateful that are children are learning these fundamental skills. At Journey, the emphasis is on the arts, knitting, gardening, etc, versus mastering core curriculum. Those extras are very enriching but you have to feel OK with them being IN PLACE of basic math, ELA, and science. And science at Journey is Steiner science. You should google that to make sure that's what you want your child learning. Remember where your child will be going from Journey and make sure that Journey can sufficiently prepare them for their future.

Posted: April 9, 2012

Based on our experience, we are giving this school two stars. Our children spent three years at Journey, with the 2011-2012 year being their first year at a new school. We experienced positive and negatives during those three years. Unfortunately, the negatives outweighed the positives. Lack of teaching core curriculum in one class put one of our children an entire year behind. The other major issue was administration and the lack of discipline for bullies with no consistent policy enforced. Further, the parents who had real concerns were often overlooked. For us, you can't judge a book by its cover...it looked great on the outside but the interior is very flawed and isn't nurturing the whole child. We recommend keeping an eye on your children and their preparedness for high school. We cannot recommend this school at this time.

Posted: February 13, 2012

There is abundant evidence that ADHD increases as as TV viewing does. Ask yourself if you are working for or against the school s purpose. This school is working toward the trend of making a healthy 40 year old. I would rather have a well-rounded child who understands the area of a triangle by actually crocheting it before he learns the concept years later. And when he is twenty, has the skilled hands of a surgeon no matter what he chooses as a career. I don t understand why parents who haven t educated themselves send their children here. Check out Unplugged on Purpose about a Philadelphia Waldorf School. Then admire Journey School for attempting the Impossible for trying to provide this on $5000 or less, I ve heard, this coming year. I would suggest working toward bridging the gap and being a positive force or sending your child to the Waldorf School of Orange County for $16,000. Dream on, Right? By a potential teacher who found out too late (for her own child) about the wonders of Waldorf. P.S. I was snapped up by another school so I feel that you might consider this impartial. Good luck in your journeys!

Posted: February 3, 2012

Gosh - The polarization of 1 star vs 5 star reviews is a bit of a worry. We've read back a bit and the 1 stars reviews have several common threads, a few complaints we've heard of already. The 5 stars paint a pretty picture, some of which we seen for ourselves. However, some 5 stars are very polished, too much so, right out of a brochure it seems. I suspect the reality is somewhere between the 2 extremes. Although I'm leaning toward the underdog, we're leaving a 3 star review. We are deciding on whether to stay and commit to this system before the Community Meeting marketing blitz, 'close the gap', re-enrollment decisions. Our daughter really likes the school and is enjoying herself. We're earthy and like the slower pace but then there is the real world that our daughter has to learn to navigate. Seems to be a charter is a bit of a no man's land, not really in either camp (Waldorf or public). The teachers are great for sure. Admin is interesting, a bit inconsistent from our experience. So it's been educational reading all these reviews. We've decided.

Posted: February 1, 2012

When we first observed at this school we loved the idea of children being able to be children! The school has a strong media policy and the children are not being influenced with materialism. The school also has a compassionate campus program that seriously cuts down on bullying and teaches the students how to get along with all sorts of people. The teachers are EXTREMELY dedicated. Many work on weekends and nearly all the teachers are taking Waldorf training courses and many have worked in traditional public schools in the past so they understand how to cover the state standards. The administrators are hard workers and have many great ideas that they have implemented in the few years they have been here. The school was unstable a couple years back, but the administrators have really turned things around. Learn about the school before sending your child. Many parents have a negative attitude because they send their child hoping for an individualized education, and then are upset when the teachers won't completely change the curriculum for their child. At the end of the day, my daughter has LOVED coming to school everyday for the past few years and she is learning.

Posted: January 18, 2012

There are a lot of unhappy parents at Journe watching stuff all this. Events do not happen in a closet, parents who vol. etc are watching and see the travesties that occur to others and are frustrated. This is reflected in lower donation rates and parent vol., etc. All the negative reviews below are correct. Huge egos, 'big talk' but little action, wishy washy decisions. We will be leaving at end of year. This school has lost the heart it once had. Newbie Admin has done a couple of good things but made huge, bad judgement calls, sweeping stuff under rug. IF school gets rechartered, school council / teachers need to insist on a proven track record of experienced, ethical, stable Admin otherwise this school won't make it. Stop the nepotism, go outside Waldorf ville.

Posted: January 15, 2012

The negative reviewers are spot on. Negative reviews do 'disappear...' i watched when we left in the spring and 3-4 disappeared. We left last year with others due to the substandard teacher in our class as our child was academically behind. Check out STAR scores to verify 2 classes who suffered. To be fair, recent hires are great but there are several grades that are suffering from years past. Admin promises and doesn't deliver. Unfinished website, important survey we've been told still not out, FAVORTISM of special families whose kids get off scott free. Admin Incompetence, inexperienced, etc. but happy to take your money. Middle school very unprepared for real world. School currently works for K-5, just doesn't have it for beyond that despite some good teachers efforts. This school really needs a really experienced, strong admin who won't waffle and is an educator at heart. We are soooo happy we left. i pray for the others in our old class to 'open their eyes.''

Posted: May 16, 2011

All of my children have or have attended the Journey School. I am grateful for having this school in our community. People can argue that the school is not educating to the state standards or that the schools administration is not doing a good job but I have to disagree with their opinion. I believe that this school is teaching correctly and it is trying to help our society, which to me is really flawed right now our society that is. Our little community within Journey while not perfect but it really helps out when you look at it as a whole. I thank everyone at Journey for having a school within Orange County that is out for helping children.

Posted: April 25, 2011

Wow where do i begin? I will start out on the positive. I think the idea of how Journey says they are going to teach children is great ( if it worked, and they were doing what they said they would do! ie: see the schools test scores SCARY!) Umm..the school has a great music program. The positive comments on here have to be from the administration or parents that sadly just don't have a clue. There is no accountability or organization at Journey, this is what they call the Waldorf way. Kids need structure or there is chaos. Journey's name should be CHAOS. The administration is constantly putting out fires that never seem to stop. It is sad and scary to me that this school is able to stay open and be responsible for children learning or lack there of in this case. There is also no text books at this school the kids write there own, no computers, and they ask all the parents to donate $100.00 a month. I will be shocked if this school is still open in the next 5 years. If you have very low standards for your child education this is the school for you! Journey were education is not a race its a joke!

Posted: April 17, 2011

This school could be so good, if only the Waldorf philosophy was actually put into practice effectively. Unfortunately, Journey lacks consistency, has no apparent curriculum that is followed, and what the child is taught is highly dependent on who they have has a teacher. Teacher to parent communication on what is being learned in the classroom (and therefore should be reinforced at home) has been completely missing. This may be a different experience from class to class, but with no standard to follow, there is no consistency. I like the playful, cheerful environment, but it is a lot of play and not a lot of work. If the purpose of school is to prepare our children for the future and to build the foundation for a strong work ethic and a successful career, then Journey falls dreadfully short. The influence I see being indirectly taught to the children is that of mediocrity and laziness, which is such a shame. Executed correctly, Journey could be a place where children learn to care for each other, care for the earth, find joy in simple things, AND work hard, develop a love for learning, and a desire to always do their best work. Unfortunately, that is not what it is today.

Posted: March 7, 2011

This school is not the right school for anyone who doesn t stop to read the sign out front: Education is a journey not a race . Many parents come to the school without fully understanding the Waldorf-inspired pedagogy, which is understandable; there is a lot to learn. However, it explains how academics are taught through art, music, stories, play, interaction, movement, etc. This school is one of the few in Orange County that actually prepares students with the 21st Century learning skills that other schools can t cram into their day because parents are screaming for sky-high test scores in 2nd grade. My children attended Journey and are now well-rounded high school honor students.

Posted: February 7, 2011

If you want even a moderate amount of focus on academic learning and aquisition of basic language and math skills, look elsewhere, anywhere else will be better. There is absolutely no desire to teach the students anything remotely close to basic academics. To have a school in the middle of Aliso Viejo ranked 375 out of 381 elementary schools in Orange County is criminal. How parents can want their children to be so disadvantaged is hard to understand. And yet Capo Valley renewed their charter. Go to the Journey school website and look for anything that relates to academic achievement. There is nothing. They do learn how to knit and compost, however.

Posted: January 20, 2011

The Journey Schools allows children to retain the innocence. They focus on community connectedness, nature, thinking outside of the box, creativity and being proud, loving individuals. It's so refreshing. My children are happy, love school and are free to develop into at their own pace.