More Than a New Building: Bringing the OCASA Learning Experience to Tustin

“A great school is not only built with classrooms but also with care, connection, and opportunities for children to grow.”

Something exciting is happening in Tustin. Every week, a building that was once empty is slowly becoming something full of life, color, and possibility. Walls are colored up, spaces are taking shape, and a brand-new school community is being built.

At OCASA, we believe that every child deserves a place where they feel known, supported, and inspired to learn. And right now, we are building exactly that.

OCASA Elementary Tustin is set to open its doors in August 2026, bringing our joyful, student-centered approach to learning to families across the Orange County community. In this blog, we will talk about what this new school means for children, for families, and for the future of learning in Orange County.

Let's take a closer look!

What Is Happening Right Now on Campus

If you have been watching the construction updates on our social media handles, you already know that real progress is happening on site. What started as a building full of potential is now actively being transformed into a learning environment designed specifically for children.

Every space on the OCASA Tustin campus is being thoughtfully designed to support the way children learn best, with room to collaborate, create, explore, and grow. The energy on campus is building every single week, and we are genuinely excited for families to see the finished result.

We invite you to follow us on our social media; it is the best way to stay up to date. Every update we share brings us closer to opening day.

What Makes OCASA Tustin Different?

At OCASA Tustin, learning is designed around how children learn best. We understand that every child grows differently, learns differently, and has different strengths. That is why we focus on creating experiences that help every student feel confident, supported, and excited to come to school.

From small group instruction to hands-on learning experiences, our goal is simple: help children enjoy learning while building the skills they need for the future.

1. Small Group Learning That Helps Every Child Grow

At OCASA Tustin, teachers will work with students in small groups so every child gets the attention they need. Instead of one learning experience for everyone, lessons are adjusted based on where students are and how they learn best.

This will help children feel more confident, supported, and comfortable asking questions in the classroom.

2. Hands-On Learning That Connects to Real Life

At OCASA Tustin, students will experience hands-on learning where they can solve challenges, build projects, and think creatively.

Learning will also go beyond the classroom through field study experiences that help students connect lessons to the real world. When children can see, touch, and experience what they are learning, it becomes easier to understand and remember.

3. STEAM Learning Built Into Everyday Experiences

At OCASA, STEAM learning is not limited to one subject or one classroom activity.

Students explore science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics through activities that encourage creativity, problem-solving, and curiosity. Whether children are building a project, creating artwork, or working together to solve challenges, they are learning skills that support future success.

4. A Joyful School Environment

Children learn better when they enjoy coming to school.

At OCASA Tustin, we want students to feel welcomed, encouraged, and excited every day. From meaningful teacher relationships to engaging classroom experiences, we are building a school community where children feel comfortable being themselves and trying new things.

Because when children feel happy and supported, learning becomes more meaningful.

How OCASA Tustin Will Support Children Beyond Academics

At OCASA, learning is about more than academics. We want children to grow with confidence, curiosity, and strong social skills that support them both inside and outside the classroom.

Here are some ways OCASA Tustin will support student growth:

Socially And Emotionally

Children will build relationships with teachers and classmates in a supportive environment where they’ll learn teamwork, communication, and confidence.

Creatively

With STEAM activities, we will help children explore their interests, think creatively, and discover what excites them.

Physically

Our PE program will encourage movement, teamwork, and healthy habits while helping children stay active and confident.

A Note to Tustin Families

If you are a parent in Orange County looking for the right school for your child, we want you to know something: we are building this school with families like yours in mind.

We know how much goes into choosing the right school. We know how important it is to find a place where your child will thrive. We know that you want a school where you feel like a real partner in your child's education, not just someone who drops them off in the morning.

That is the community we are creating at OCASA Tustin. And we would love for your family to be part of it.

OCASA Elementary, Tustin, opens in August 2026 for students in TK through 5th grade, and following us on social media is the best way to stay in the loop as we get closer to opening day.