Castille Elementary School offers many exciting learning experiences for children. Through the combined efforts of an innovative staff, involved parents and broad-based community support, the school's goals are achieved. In 2006 Castille was awarded the California Distinguished School designation.

As one of 54 schools in the Capistrano Unified School District , Castille currently enrolls 600 students in a typically middle class community. The school's student population is diverse in its income level as well as in its ethnicity. The three major ethnic groups are White, 79%, Hispanic, 9%; Asian, 8%. Numerous cultures, including 16 different languages, are represented in the school. Student's cross-cultural friendships demonstrate that they regard each other as children with similarities more than differences.

Instruction at Castille focuses on an integrated curriculum and teamwork.  Within each grade level, teaching responsibilities are shared to capitalize on the unique talents and expertise of staff members. Teachers meet regularly in grade level teams to analyze data and share best practice in order to meet both state and district standards.  The principal, 23 teachers, 23 support staff members and parents work closely together in goal setting and decision making.  All levels of learning are addressed by modifications, interventions, and/or depth and complexity.  Castille's API has steadily improved over the past 10 years, and in 2008 the school received a score of 866.   The school continues to meet its adequate yearly progress (AYP) in all areas and subgroups.

The first two hours of each school day are dedicated to Language Arts instruction where Castille has seen tremendous growth over the past few years.  As of Spring 2009, 78% of its students in grades 2 - 5 were Proficient or Advanced on the California Standard's Test.  This is a 7% improvement over 2008.  It is also significantly higher than the state's average.  On any given day you will see teachers working in both small and large groups teaching the very important reading skills of decoding and comprehension through a balanced literacy approach. 

Math and Science instruction are extremely important to the development of the whole child.  Grade levels group for math instruction so as to provide the appropriate level of challenge and support necessary to meet the needs of all learners.  Teachers will be implementing a new math adoption this year, EnVision Math which has a strong problem-solving component embedded into it.  All of our teachers have been trained in the new adoption and are eager to work with our young scholars on improving their critical thinking skills.  The school will have a dedicated area this year for the teaching of science, and most teachers have been trained in, and are utilizing, an inquiry-based teaching approach thanks to the support of Beckman@Science.   In 2009, Castille's 5th graders scored 3rd highest in the district on the state mandated standards test, with 84% of the students scoring Proficient or Advanced.  That is 25% higher than O.C. 5th graders, and 35% higher than all 5th graders in the state of California.  We are very proud of our science program at Castille, which culminates in an entire day devoted to hands-on science in May.

Technology is incorporated into all facets of the instructional program with every staff member. Technology is integrated across the curriculum to offer flexibility and practical use for young children. Internet access, computer networking, multi-media programs, and regular visits to one of the school's 2 computer labs are strong components of Castille's technology plan.

Character development and the enhancement of social skills are inherent in maintaining the school's positive climate. The Coyote with Character program (tied closely to the City of Mission Viejo's character program) serves as the backdrop for building sound character in students and guiding them to make good choices.

Parent and community involvement is a major part of the Castille environment. Students, staff and parents take an active role in Mission Viejo community events.  All families are asked to partner with the school in their child's education.  Parent volunteers are an integral part of our educational program, including those parents who can only help at home or on special occasions.  The PTA at Castille supports outstanding enrichment opportunities for all students throughout the year.   A child's educational experience at Castille is truly meant to be a family affair!