Oxford Preparatory Academy opened its South Orange County (OPA-SOC) campus in Mission Viejo in 2011. In 2016, OPA opened its Saddleback Valley (OPA-SV) campus in Lake Forest. And most recently, in 2023, OPA opened its Middle School (OPA-MS).
Since its inception, we are proud that our schools have been consistently honored with many prestigious awards.
California Distinguished School - 2023, 2018, 2014
The California Distinguished Schools Award remains one of the important ways to celebrate exceptional schools, districts, teachers, and classified employees for their innovation, talent, and success in supporting students. The program recognizes schools for the excellent work in one of two categories: closing the achievement gap and achieving exceptional student performance.
In 2023 OPA - SV and OPA - SOC were 2 of only 356 elementary schools in California to receive this prestigous award.
Elementary schools, middle and high schools are recognized in alternate years; therefore, awardees hold the title for two years. 2023 was the first time OPA - SV received the recognition and the 3rd time for OPA - SOC (previously being awarded in 2014 and 2018). The program was temporarily suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic.
For more information, please visit the CDE California Distinguished Schools Program web page.
2023 California Positive Behavioral Intervention System (PBIS)
Both OPA-SV (gold) and OPA-SOC (silver) received the PBIS implementation award from the California PBIS. The award recognizes schools for implementing PBIS with fidelity to the national framework.
When implemented with fidelity, PBIS improves social emotional competence, academic success, and school climate. It is a way to create positive, predictable, equitable and safe learning environments where everyone thrives.
California and National Schools to Watch
Both SOC and SV were recognized as California and National Schools to Watch for Exemplary Middle School Programs. The Schools to Watch is an initiative launched by the National Forum to Accelerate Middle-Grades Reform in 1999.
National Forum members believe three things are true of high-performing middle-grade schools: They are academically excellent, they are developmentally responsive, they are socially equitable, and they have developed organizational structures to support good programs for young adolescents.
2022 California Pivotal Practice (CAPP)
The California Pivotal Practice (CAPP) Award was awarded to both OPA SV and OPA SOC 2022. This award was used used in place of the California Distinguised School Program. It celebrates schools and districts that implemented an innovative practice during the 2020-2021 school year when California required schools to offer distance learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The award, given to only 727 California schools, recognized creativity, dedication, and innovation in the face of adversity. OPA was recognized for practices that included also social and emotional learning, interventions and supports, and strong enrichment programs.
Best Charter School - Parenting OC
In 2023, OPA received the Editors Choice for Best Charter School by Parenting OC magazine. Additionally, in 2014 and 2021, OPA - SOC was selected by the readers for Best Charter School in Orange County. OPA is a top pick among readers due to its commitment to academic excellence among its students!
A Track Record of Success
Gap Buster
Stanford University's Center for Research on Education Outcomes (CREDO), one of the most respected and prestigious research entities in the U.S., released a study that provides clear evidence that charter schools are now outperforming traditional public schools in California and across the nation. In this study, OPA was named one of 32 Charter Management Organizations that helped close the opportunity gap and foster educational equity within the state's K-12 system. OPA met the "gap busting" criteria "proving that success is scalable".
Civic Learning Award of Merit (2016)
OPA-SOC was selected to receive the award which recognizes the important role of public schools in preparing student for participation in our democracy. It celebrates both successful efforts to engage students in civic learning and to identify successful models that can be replicated in other schools. The award was co-sponsored by Chief Justice Tani Cantil-Sakauye and California State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Tolakson.
Honor Roll School Recipient
OPA - SOC was chosen by the Campaign for Business and Education Excellence (CBEE) after an extensive and rigorous analysis of every public school throughout California. CBEE identifies and recognizes higher performing schools in the state who have excelled in raising student achievement and are closing achievement gaps, improving the educational system for all students. OPA - SOC received this recognition in 2014, 2016, and 2018.
Noteworthy Accomplishments
OPA - SV received the first 7-year charter renewal in California. The 7-year renewal was based on it's high academic performance and excellent academic programs.
OPA - SOC has had the top scores in both Math and ELA on the California Assessment of Performance and Progress (CAASPP) in South Orange County for 5 years straight.
OPA - SV has has the top scores in both Math and ELA on the California Assessment of Performance and Progress (CAASPP) compared to its surrounding schools in Saddleback Valley Unified School District for 5 years straight.
OPA - SOC opened its first year with a 993 API, the second highest scoring school in Orange County. In 2013, the school’s API of 990 was the highest in the Capistrano Unified School District.
NICHE Ratings
OPA - SV and OPA - SOC both rated as A+
OPA - SV rated #1 Best Charter Elementary School in Orange County (2023)
OPA - SV rated #7 Best Charter Elementary School in California (2023)
OPA - SV rated #102 Best Charter Elementary School in America (2023)
OPA - SOC rated #2 Best Charter Elementary School in Orange County (2023)
OPA - SOC rated #8 Best Charter Elementary School in California (2023)
OPA - SOC rated #111 Best Charter Elementary School in America (2023)
