Offering Preschool, Elementary, and Middle School, Stratford School Mission Viejo provides an unparalleled education where children are inspired to be creative problem solvers, innovators, and confident, compassionate leaders.
Our balanced approach in and out of the classroom ensures both academic success and personal development. In the classroom, our curriculum intentionally instills STEAM rigor and academic excellence taught in a warm and caring environment. Arts, music, character development, and physical activity round out the Stratford experience.
Beyond the classroom, Stratford encourages students to explore their individual passions through enrichment activities.
Our goal is to prepare and mentor students for admission to competitive high schools and colleges, and our students achieve outstanding results.
Evident at all our schools is the Stratford motto, "Summa spes, summa res," meaning "highest hopes, highest things.".
Quick Stats (2024-25)
- Top Ranked CA School
- Grades: Nursery/Preschool-8
- Enrollment: 269 students
- Yearly Tuition: $23,008
- Average class size: 16 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
Stratford School Mission Viejo ranks among the top 20% of private schools in California for:
Category
Attribute
Student Body
School Overview
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Nursery/Preschool-8
Year Founded
1994
Summer School Offered
Yes
Student Body
Total Students
269 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
13%
State avg.: 51%
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
24 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
11:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
80%
Average Class Size
16 students
Classroom Dress Code
Formal
No uniforms for preschool.
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$23,008
Tuition Notes
Tuition varies by grade level.
Admissions Director
Kathy Angioli
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
8 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
Art, Chess, Computer, Computer Science, Science, Student
Arts and Music Programs:
Band, Musical
Art, Chess, Computer, Computer Science, Science, Student
Arts and Music Programs:
Band, Musical
School Notes
- Please go to https://stratford.secure.force.com/application/ to apply online.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Stratford School Mission Viejo cost?
Stratford School Mission Viejo's tuition is approximately $23,008 for private students.
What is Stratford School Mission Viejo's ranking?
Stratford School Mission Viejo ranks among the top 20% of private schools in California for: Largest student body.
When is the application deadline for Stratford School Mission Viejo?
The application deadline for Stratford School Mission Viejo is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
School Reviews
5 6/3/2016
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.
5 5/17/2016
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!
5 5/4/2016
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!
5 10/27/2012
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
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