Grades: Kindergarten through 5

John Malcom Elementary School is located on a scenic bluff about four miles from the Pacific Ocean in beautiful Laguna Niguel. The school, opened in September 1994 as an Environmental Science Academy, was selected as a California Distinguished School in 1998 and a National Blue Ribbon School in 2001.

The rigorous and comprehensive basic instructional program has been integrated with three main focus areas: environmental science, community service and character education. The Malcom staff is committed to providing a quality, challenging curriculum that emphasizes these three areas, while meeting the individual needs of all students in all areas of Capistrano Unified School District’s Capistrano Objectives for Reaching Excellence (CORE) curriculum.

Students in grades K-5 are involved in an academic program that includes integrated science activities. Through partnerships with Malcom parent groups, the school provides every student the opportunity to participate in outdoor science field studies. The school has received awards from the Walt Disney Corporation, the California State Department of Education and the Air Quality Management District for its quality programs in environmental education. The ultimate goal of the science curriculum is to help students appreciate the importance of their relationship to the environment and all living things.

The Kids In Community Service (KICS) program provides students with ongoing opportunities to participate in community service. A variety of projects are presented on an individual, classroom and school wide basis. An emphasis is placed on activities that are consistent with our focus on environmental science and marine ecology.

John Malcom Elementary is preparing students for tomorrow’s work-place while nurturing character development, good citizenship and responsibility. The staff has formed partnerships with parents to foster strong character values in all students. Working together, parents and staff have implemented a comprehensive character education program that is apparent in every aspect of our school environment.

Technology is utilized as a significant tool for learning. A 33-station iMac Lab to support learning across the curriculum through specially designed instructional units.

The intellectual, physical, emotional and moral capacities of each student are nurtured, so students feel supported. The unique backgrounds and experiences that individual students bring to the classroom are recognized and celebrated.

The ultimate goal at John Malcom Elementary is to ensure that every student will lead a fulfilling life in our society as a productive worker, concerned citizen and thoughtful individual. The staff is committed to making sure that John Malcom Elementary has a positive, enduring and profound impact on every student who attends.

Specialized Programs:

• Environmental Science Academy
• Kids In Community Service (KICS)
• Character education

Program Highlights:

• Explicit reading and mathematics instruction
• Reading, writing, speaking and listening integrated across the curriculum
• Integrated science curriculum, featuring practical applications
• Indoor and outdoor science labs
• Articulated sequence of outdoor science field trips
• Networked computer technology

Other Links:

•   Visit our School Web site
•   View the School Accountability Report Card