Children's Choice / McDowell Elementary School in Laguna Niguel, California

“McDowell is amazing for anyone who wants an incredible academic and well-rounded educational experience for their child. The best teachers, staff and parents in town. The school has been there for 34 years and continues to grow with today's high standards of excellence. I have never been disappointed with anything there, and my boys love going to school each day.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“This is a for-profit school now owned by the same people who own Sylvan. It is great for younger kids and the class size is small but there's only one class in most grades which isn't enough for older kids. The classrooms are very small and there are very few facilities; a small playground, PE in the parking lot and no science labs or art/music rooms. There are some great teachers but there's no ongoing teacher training so some are stuck in a rut. Unless your kids have been here since preschool it's very hard for them to break in socially. The school doesn't have a middle school, it has one very small 6th grade. If your kids are very young or if your older child has need of such a small environment then it is a good school but it's very much a niche school. Most kids need more.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“I have been a parent at McDowell for eight years and I love this school! My children love to go to school everyday and I attribute that to an amazing staff of teachers who challenge my kids while making learning fun! The small class sizes allow every student to get one-on-one attention and help bring out the best in each of them. McDowell teaches kids confidence, high self-esteem, and great sportsmanship, along with above grade level academics. The teachers are amazing and really know how to inspire the kids. Parents are encouraged to be involved in daily school life and the result is a family environment that is one-of-a-kind! Everyone genuinely cares about each other and it shows! If you are looking to academically challenge your child while making sure they are being nurtured and guided into becoming well-rounded, confident, caring people then McDowell is for you.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“McDowell Middle School has an individual approach to education. The class sizes are kept limited to ensure each student reaches his or her potential. The teachers are extraordinary and the level of learning is outstanding. There are a number of schools in this area with a good reputation for high academic standards, but McDowell goes beyond academics by encouraging leadership and personal growth. The principal is a great leader and has hired teachers who are commited to teaching and encouraging young people to reach their potential. The students feel at home here, which gives them a greaet deal of confidence and promotes high self esteem. This Middle School program continues to exceed my expecations.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“I am in 6th grade, and I have been at McDowell for 8 years. The student government program at McDowell is very involved in fundraisers and activities. The teaching philosophy at McDowell is very exclusive. They make sure that every child gets the attention that they need to fully understand a subject. McDowell also has a belief that all students should have the opportunity to be involved in extra ciricular activities. I am glad I've chosen McDowell as my middle school because every teacher has their own, fun way of teaching. Also, class sizes are very convenient, because there is enough time to teach everyone what they need to know. Another convenience is the school size as a whole. It is nice to know that as I walk down the hall, teachers, staff, and students all know each other.”
This review was posted by a student.

“I have been a parent at McDowell for 7 years and have experienced all the school has to offer. The preschool is nurturing, the elementary gives a strong foundation and the middle school program prepares them for high school and beyond! There is a focus on strong academics, with an importance placed on the whole child. Children are challenged in Math, Language Arts, Science, Computers, etc....and are taught respect, sportsmanship and a caring for our world and community. The school s relationship with the community allows them to have access to fields, courts and theaters which has only strengthened its sports and music/performance programs. The small class size allows students the opportunity to have Spanish, Art and Music on a daily or weekly basis, gives the teachers an opportunity to work with students on an individual basis. There is a very low turnover of teachers. I would recommend checking into this school!”
This review was posted by a parent.

“This school has great teachers. The facilities are lacking for the upper grades in all areas. If you are looking for a preschool/kindergarten this would be a great school.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“If you are looking for a smaller class size, this school is one for you. We love this school!”
This review was posted by a parent.

“If you are looking for a small class per grade school with a focus on academics then I would recommend this school. There is a lack of facilities for the older children to play and do sports etc In the past there has been a realatively high turnover of teachers given the few grades and now there is a new Principal so things may change.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“We have been involved with Children's Choice/McDowell Elementary for a total of 8 years, and have always felt like a valued member of the school family. Communication with the teachers and the principal is very open, caring, honest and welcoming. Our experience is that the teaching staff strive to take the time to bring out the very best in every individual student, making each child feel empowered to take the next academic challenge. When it was time for our older son to move on, it was very obvious to us that the schools we visited also respected McDowell's academics, methods and values. This school comes highly recommended!”
This review was posted by a parent.

“We have been at McDowell now for almost 5 years and what impresses me the most is that every year the school has improved in all areas. This year, third grade, without a doubt has been the best year. The teacher is outstanding and the work is challenging. McDowell asks for your input and takes it seriously; they are on a continual quest to always go to the next level academically and our children are the beneficiaries of this.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“The focus of high level academics built to challenge children from K-6th grades at McDowell is building the foundation required to further the education experience, and prepare my children for the future. In addition, McDowell offers extracurricular programs that far exceed expectations, with options that are not provided by most of the surrounding schools. I highly recommend all parents to look into McDowell.”
This review was posted by a parent.

“I am very impressed with the level of individual attention my son is receiving in the third grade this year. He is constantly being challenged and is thriving as a young student! This is the way school should be!”
This review was posted by a parent.

“I was looking for a parent/child friendly preschool for my daughter. Many of the schools I looked at did not encourage parents to drop in unannounced! Mcdowell is terrific letting parents watch anytime and the teachers and administrative staff is always available to answer any concerns. Now she is starting Kindergarten at Mcdowell and she cannot wait! Thank you for making education fun!”
This review was posted by a parent.