OCASA: Shaping Tomorrow's Thinkers Today.

At OCASA, learning is designed to feel meaningful, connected, and joyful. Rather than focusing only on memorization or rote skill, students learn by asking questions, exploring ideas, solving problems, and creating projects that connect learning to the real world.

Our classrooms are built around flexible groups and small group instruction, which allows teachers to meet students exactly where they are and provide personalized support throughout the day. Students also experience STEAM-focused learning through hands-on projects that encourage creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration.

In STEAM classes, students explore engineering, robotics, coding, design challenges, and maker-based projects using tools like 3D printers, robotics kits, laser engravers, and creative technology platforms.

Students also engage in larger project-based experiences throughout the year. Laguna Niguel students participate in Inquiry Arc Projects that connect learning across subjects through hands-on exploration, while Tustin and Middle School students experience Project Lead the Way challenges designed around real-world problem-solving.

Whether students are building, designing, presenting, experimenting, or collaborating, learning at OCASA is designed to spark curiosity and make academics feel purposeful and engaging.

Mixed-age classrooms allow students to learn in a more flexible and personalized environment. Rather than focusing only on grade-level labels, teachers are able to support students based on their individual readiness, strengths, and learning needs.

Younger students benefit from learning alongside older peers who model leadership and confidence, while older students strengthen communication and mentoring skills by supporting others. The result is a caring classroom community where students feel connected and supported.

OCASA believes learning should be meaningful, balanced, and developmentally appropriate. Homework is intentionally kept limited and purposeful, with the goal of reinforcing learning rather than creating unnecessary stress or busy work.

As most of the learning happens during the school day through active instruction, collaboration, and hands-on experiences, we want students to have time outside of school to rest, spend time with family, explore interests, and enjoy being children.

OCASA is built around joyful and connected learning. Families often describe the school community as warm, welcoming, and supportive, where students feel known, valued, and encouraged to be themselves.

Teachers and staff focus on creating classrooms where curiosity is celebrated, relationships matter, and students feel safe taking academic and creative challenges.

Yes. Supporting the whole child is an important part of the OCASA experience. Social-emotional learning is woven into daily instruction, classroom culture, and student support systems.

Students learn skills such as self-awareness, emotional regulation, collaboration, communication, and responsible decision-making through what we call Habits of Success.

At the Elementary level, teachers, counselors, and staff help students build confidence, friendships, and resilience. At the Middle School level, every student is paired with a dedicated mentor teacher who provides regular one-on-one support and guidance throughout the year.

OCASA’s small group instructional model allows teachers to personalize learning in ways that support a wide range of learning styles and needs.

Some students learn best through hands-on building and movement, while others thrive through visual learning, collaboration, discussion, or creative expression. Teachers continuously adjust instruction, groupings, and learning experiences to ensure students remain engaged, supported, and appropriately challenged.

We intentionally keep our classrooms small to support meaningful relationships, personalized instruction, and strong academic growth.

Because OCASA uses a small group instructional model, students receive targeted support throughout the school day, and teachers are able to meet students at their academic and social levels.

Yes. Personalized support is one of the foundations of the OCASA’s learning model. Through small group instruction, students regularly receive one-on-one guidance and targeted support from their teachers throughout the school day.

OCASA values strong partnerships between school and home. Families receive updates, announcements, and classroom communication through ParentSquare, which serves as the school’s primary communication platform.

Parents can also directly message teachers with questions or concerns related to their child’s learning experience. Our admissions and school teams work hard to ensure families feel informed, connected, and supported.

Our schools use PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports), an evidence-based, three-tiered framework designed to improve social, emotional, and academic outcomes for all students by implementing proactive, school-wide behavior strategies. It focuses on preventing problem behaviors through teaching expectations, acknowledging positive behavior, and using data to guide decisions, rather than relying solely on punishment.

For OCASA Elementary – Laguna Niguel (TK–5), the school hours are as follows:
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday: 7:50 AM – 2:20 PM
Thursday: 7:50 AM – 12:30 PM

For OCASA Elementary – Tustin (TK–5), the school hours will be as follows:
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday: 8:00 AM – 2:30 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM – 12:40 PM

For OCASA Middle School – Aliso Viejo (6–8), the school hours are as follows:
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday: 8:15 AM – 2:45 PM
Thursday: 8:15 AM – 12:45 PM

Beyond the Stars after-school program is available until 6:00 PM each day for Elementary students.

Yes. OCASA offers an after-school enrichment program called Beyond the Stars, available daily until 6:00 PM at OCASA Elementary Laguna Niguel and OCASA Elementary Tustin.

The program combines structured activities, creative enrichment, recreation, and STEAM-based exploration in a fun and supportive environment. Students participate in activities such as art, games, athletics, woodworking, collaborative projects, and enrichment clubs while also enjoying healthy snacks and time to unwind after the school day.

For current pricing information, families can contact admissions@ocasa.org.

Yes. As a public charter school, OCASA provides hot breakfast and lunch to students at no additional cost.

Our goal is to help students feel prepared, supported, and ready to learn throughout the school day.

School calendars for each OCASA campus are available through the Parent Information section of the website.

One unique feature across all campuses is the early-release schedule on Thursdays, which provides teachers with additional collaboration and planning time to strengthen instruction and student support.

Technology at OCASA is used intentionally as a learning tool, not as a replacement for hands-on instruction, collaboration, creativity, or real-world experiences.

Screen time varies depending on grade level, subject area, and classroom activities, but on average students typically spend around 15–20 minutes per day actively using screens during instruction.

Yes. Technology is thoughtfully integrated into the learning experience at OCASA as a tool for creativity, collaboration, research, and exploration. Across all campuses, technology use is intentional and purposeful, supporting learning objectives, critical thinking, and project-based learning rather than passive screen time.

At our Laguna Niguel campus, elementary students participate in a one-to-one iPad program.

At our Tustin campus, students in TK through 2nd grade have access to shared Apple iPads, while students in grades 3–5 participate in a one-to-one iPad program.

At our Aliso Viejo middle school campus, students use one-to-one MacBook Air devices.

Students also use age-appropriate digital learning platforms to access assignments, track progress, collaborate with classmates, and create meaningful learning projects.

OCASA uses research-based curriculum programs aligned to California State Standards and designed to build deep understanding, critical thinking, and real-world application.

Programs such as Inquiry Arc Projects, Project Lead the Way, OpenSciEd, EL Education, and Illustrative Mathematics help students build both strong academic foundations and future-ready skills.

Our three campuses are located as follows:
OCASA Elementary – Laguna Niguel
29292 Crown Valley Parkway, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677

OCASA Middle School – Aliso Viejo
2A Liberty, Aliso Viejo, CA 92656

OCASA Elementary – Tustin (new)
1820 E. 1st Street, North Tustin, CA 92705

Absolutely. Creative exploration is an important part of the OCASA experience. Students participate in STEAM+ electives including Visual Arts, Performing Arts, Music, STEM, Spanish, and Physical Education throughout the school week.

These experiences are not treated as extras but are part of helping students become confident, well-rounded learners.

Beyond the Stars is OCASA’s structured after-school enrichment program designed to give students a fun, engaging, and supportive experience beyond the school day.

The schedule is intentionally structured to balance creativity, movement, relaxation, and social connection while continuing the joyful learning experience students receive during the school day.

Yes. Both our Elementary and Middle School students have opportunities to participate in a variety of clubs, enrichment activities, and student leadership experiences throughout the year.

Students are encouraged to explore their interests, collaborate with peers, and develop confidence both inside and outside the classroom.

Yes. OCASA is a tuition-free public charter school.

All academic programs are available to students at no cost, and enrollment is open to all families through a fair and public admissions process.

OCASA is committed to creating an inclusive and accessible learning environment where every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed.

Yes. OCASA has a dress code and uniform policy designed to create a focused, respectful, and connected learning environment. Families are welcome to purchase uniforms from any vendor as long as they match the approved colors and style guidelines. The school logo is not required.

OCASA does not want uniform purchases to be a barrier for any family. If finances are a concern when it comes to ordering uniforms, please message your school principal via ParentSquare for scholarship options.

Because OCASA is tuition-free, most educational experiences and classroom learning materials are included.

Families may purchase school supplies using the supply lists available on the website, and some field trips may request optional donations, typically ranging from $5 to $20.

However, OCASA is committed to ensuring every student can fully participate in school experiences. No child will ever be excluded from supplies, activities, or field trips because of financial circumstances.

Parents are not required to volunteer, but family involvement is always welcomed and appreciated within the OCASA community.

Many families choose to participate in classroom activities, school events, and community-building opportunities throughout the year.

To help maintain a safe environment for students, all volunteers must complete Live Scan clearance and pass the Megan’s Law background screening process before volunteering on campus.

OCASA is committed to providing families with a continuous educational pathway.

Students at OCASA Elementary Laguna Niguel can continue their educational journey at OCASA Middle School in Aliso Viejo for grades 6–8.

For students attending our Tustin campus, OCASA plans to add one grade level each year, expanding beyond elementary school and ultimately serving students through 8th grade. Once enrollment supports it, OCASA plans to launch a high school program, creating an even more comprehensive TK–12 educational pathway for families.

After completing 8th grade, families currently explore a variety of high school options based on their child’s goals, interests, and learning preferences. Many OCASA students transition to local district high schools, charter schools, private schools, or specialized academic programs throughout Orange County.

Everything at OCASA is designed to help students become confident, capable, and future-ready learners.

In addition to strong academics, students build critical thinking skills, collaboration skills, creativity, communication abilities, and habits of success that support them well beyond the classroom.

Hands-on projects, real-world learning experiences, mentoring, and personalized instruction help students develop both academic excellence and a strong sense of purpose.

Families often share that OCASA students transition confidently into middle school, high school, and future academic opportunities because they know how to think independently, solve problems, and approach learning with curiosity and confidence.

Yes. OCASA students are prepared academically, socially, and emotionally for future learning environments.

Because students regularly engage in critical thinking, collaboration, project-based learning, and independent problem-solving, they develop skills that transfer successfully into district schools, high schools, college-preparatory programs, and beyond.