All staff in Capistrano Unified School District is committed to the belief that children will learn, that children will learn more today than yesterday, and that they will learn more tomorrow than today. The district’s commitment to the more than 51,000 students entrusted to its care remains steadfast despite state funding difficulties and other challenges. Our commitment to instructional excellence drives the mission of our more than 4,000 employees.
Founded in 1965, Capistrano Unified encompasses 195 square miles in seven cities and a portion of the unincorporated area of Orange County. With 56 campuses, it is the largest employer in south Orange County. The district includes all or part of the cities of San Clemente, Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano, Laguna Niguel, Aliso Viejo, Mission Viejo and Rancho Santa Margarita, and the communities of Las Flores, Coto de Caza, Dove Canyon, Ladera Ranch, and Wagon Wheel.
The district is governed by a seven-member Board of Trustees, which generally meets monthly on Tuesday evenings at 7:00 p.m. at the Capistrano Unified School District (CUSD) Education Center, 33122 Valle Road, San Juan Capistrano. Information about meeting times and agendas is available on this website or by calling 949/234-9207.
Capistrano Unified has grown significantly during its lifetime. In the last 18 years:
- The student population grew by nearly 27,000 students.
- The district opened 31 schools.
- Nearly 2,000 teachers and support employees were hired.
- The number of courses and curricular offerings increased ten-fold.
- The district’s schools earned 50 California Distinguished School recognitions and 11 National Blue Ribbon recognitions—among the many honors awarded to CUSD.
In the same period, primary class sizes were reduced; more focus was placed on individualized education; innovative programs were created; and—most important—student achievement increased.
