Frequently Asked Questions

Questions About Academy on the Hills

Everything you need to know about enrollment, programs, meals, and more.

Last updated: March 2026

What ages does Academy on the Hills accept?

We accept children from 6 weeks through kindergarten age. Our programs are organized by developmental stage: Infant Care (6 weeks–24 months), Toddler (18–30 months), Junior Pre-K (3 years), Pre-K (4 years), and Private Kindergarten (5–6 years). Each program has its own ratios, curriculum goals, and classroom environment. Enrollment is open year-round pending availability, and we recommend scheduling a tour early as spots fill quickly in our infant and toddler rooms.

What is your teacher-to-child ratio?

In our infant program we have a staff ratio of no more than 4 infants to 1 teacher at any given time. The ratio in our toddler program is 6:1. Our preschool and kindergarten classes are kept small and separated by age and development, so teachers have the opportunity to get to know each child closely and support their progress individually.

Are meals provided?

Yes. Our hot lunch program serves nutritious meals daily, with a main entrée, side dishes of fruits and vegetables, and a choice of juice or milk. Every meal is cooked on site under Child and Adult Care Food Program guidelines and California state nutritional guidelines. Breakfast and a nutritional snack are provided each day at no additional cost. Monthly breakfast, lunch, and snack menus are published so families always know what their child is eating.

What enrichment activities are included?

All of them, as part of the weekly curriculum and at no additional charge. Every child takes part in our Music Garden, the ECO-Art Studio, Dance & Fitness, Tae Kwon Do, Soccer, and Science Adventures. Outdoor enrichment runs through our Outdoor Art Studio, Outdoor Music, and Outdoor Science programs. Children ages 4 and 5 also receive Spanish-English dual language immersion and our STEAM program of hands-on science, technology, engineering, art, and math projects.

What are your hours of operation?

We are open Monday through Friday, 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM. Our full-day kindergarten program runs the same hours, and the program fee includes early drop-off from 6:30 AM as well as a nutritious hot breakfast and lunch.

What does the kindergarten program cover?

Our private kindergarten uses A-beka and Scholastic textbooks and curriculum. The core curriculum covers letters and sounds, a basic phonics reading program, writing with phonics, manuscript writing and number writing tablets, number skills, reading readiness, science, social studies, diagnostic testing, and readers. We also incorporate arts and crafts, music and movement, seasonal projects, and computer competency at no extra charge. Continuing Pre-K students have a kindergarten preparatory class during the summer, also at no extra cost.

How do I enroll my child?

Enrollment starts with a campus tour. Call us at (949) 360-7022 or submit the contact form and we will arrange a time. After your tour we will provide an enrollment packet including the licensing forms required by the California Department of Social Services. Registration is a one-time $150. Private kindergarten adds a $150 book fee, which includes shipping and handling.

Is Academy on the Hills licensed?

Yes. We are licensed by the California Department of Social Services, Community Care Licensing Division, under license number 304371769. All of our teachers have been screened and cleared by the Department of Justice and the Child Abuse Registry.

How secure is the facility?

Admission to the building is secured and screened, and the facility is equipped with closed-circuit television cameras. Children are released to approved persons only, after individuals are checked for identification and authorization. Our infant center is equipped with closed-circuit cameras that are monitored from the Director's office. The facility meets and exceeds all required safety and fire regulations.

What areas do you serve?

Our campus is at 10 Mareblu in Aliso Viejo, CA 92656, at the cross streets of Mareblu and Pacific Park Drive. While the facility is located in Aliso Viejo, we proudly serve the greater surrounding area including the cities of Laguna Hills and Laguna Niguel.

What makes Academy on the Hills different?

Three things. First, every enrichment class — music, dance, tae kwon do, soccer, and yoga — is included in the weekly curriculum rather than sold as an add-on. Second, hot breakfast, lunch, and snacks are cooked on site every day and included. Third, our classes are small and separated by age and development, with individual observation and assessment used to build each child's lesson plan.

How do I schedule a tour?

Call us at (949) 360-7022 during our hours of operation, Monday through Friday, 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM, or submit the contact form on our website. You can also email us at [email protected]. Our school fax is (949) 360-7122.

Still have questions?

Call us at (949) 360-7022 or schedule a tour to see our campus in person.