FAQ's
Why should I send my child to your school?
Carden Conejo offers a superior elementary and middle-school education based on an accelerated curriculum and high achievement standards. The rich curriculum, focused academics, and traditional environment of respect, courtesy, responsibility, and warmth provide a significant alternative to the public school system. Kindergarten – 2nd Grade students get a strong start with a phonics-based reading program. The world-class Singapore Math program is introduced in Kindergarten and continues through 6th Grade. Our curriculum is varied and extensive and includes hands-on science, an introduction to history and geography, French, music, art, and PE.
What is the student to faculty ratio at Carden Conejo? What is your average class size?
Our student to faculty ratio is 7:1. The average class size is approximately 10 children for each grade in the Primary School (Pre-School, Pre-Kindergarten, Junior Kindergarten). In the Elementary School and Middle School, each grade has approximately 25 - 30 students, divided into two sections.
Why do students like your school?
Students enjoy the sense of close community and caring possible in a small school. The Head of School and all of the staff know each child and greet them daily by name. They enjoy the after-school activities, the many field trips and special assemblies, and the drama presentations.
Do the students wear uniforms?
The students in the Primary School (Pre-School, Pre-Kindergarten, and Junior Kindergarten) are not required to wear uniforms. Students in the Elementary and Middle School wear a school uniform every day. Students in grades 2 – 8 change into athletic uniforms for P.E. class. Uniforms can be purchased new from Mills Uniforms. Gently used uniforms can be purchased from our “Carden Boutique” here on campus for greatly reduced prices. Athletic uniforms can be purchased in the school office.
How long has your school been established and is it accredited?
Carden Conejo School was founded in 1971. It is a fully accredited member of the Carden Educational Foundation, which ensures that our teachers are fully-trained on the Carden teaching methods.
What is the background of the Head of School?
Dr. Holly Fleming has been the Head of School since 2005. Before that she was the history and language arts teacher for 8th Grade. She started as an Art teacher in 1996. Dr. Fleming has received her BA degree in political science from the University of California, Los Angeles. She was awarded her Masters degree in educational administration from California Lutheran University and has been awarded her Doctoral degree in educational leadership from California Lutheran University.
What is your ratio of boys to girls?
We have an approximately even distribution of boys and girls.
How does the curriculum compare to public schools?
Carden Conejo’s academically rigorous program not only covers the standard, state-mandated curriculum, but also provides students with opportunities to learn much, much more. We pride ourselves on preparing students to become global citizens possessing leadership skills and a foundation for success. A 7:1 student to faculty ratio, innovative teaching, an accomplished faculty, and a commitment to inclusion are key features of a Carden education. Every student is known and valued at Carden.
What is Singapore Math?
Carden Conejo has adopted the “world-class” Singapore Math curriculum for students in Kindergarten to 6th Grade. The Singapore Math method of teaching mathematics is based on the textbooks and syllabus from the national curriculum of Singapore. Singapore’s students have consistently ranked first in the world in a widely accepted comparison of global math skills, “Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study.” The Singapore Math program has a consistent and strong emphasis on problem-solving and model drawing with a focus on in-depth understanding. The curriculum covers a relatively small number of topics in-depth and carefully sequenced grade-by-grade.
Carden Conejo has two specialist teachers teach mathematics: Mrs. Donna Brunasso teaches students in Kindergarten – 3rd Grade, and Mrs. Kathleen McCray teaches students in 4th – 6th Grade.
To learn more information about the Singapore Math program, go to www.singaporemath.com.
Do you offer before-school and after-school care?
Before-School Care is available every school day from 7:00 – 8:00 am. After-School Care is available each day until 6:00 pm. Before and after-school care is billed at the end of the month based on usage at $6.00 per hour.
About Admission
When should I begin the admission process? Is there a wait list? Do you accept mid-year applicants?
New parents should call the school office (805-497-7005) to schedule a tour of the school. Our next Open House is scheduled for Tuesday, February 28, 2012 at 9:00 am. If after you see the school, you are interested in having your child considered for admission, please submit completed application forms by Wednesday, March 7. We have admissions testing for students entering Kindergarten - 8th Grade scheduled for Saturday, March 10, at 8:15 am. Admissions decisions will be mailed out on Friday, March 23.
What should I expect during the parent visit?
Your visit will include a tour of the campus, a review of our curriculum, and a discussion about your child. In seeking the best match between prospective students and Carden Conejo, we strive to understand each family's goals regarding education. The parent/guardian visit takes about one hour.
