ABOUT US
A Rich Tradition
Laguna Niguel Jr. Academy has a rich history of providing quality Christian education to South Orange County since 1984. The academy's journey began in a humble one-room school located in a local church, and over the years, it has grown to occupy a beautiful school building that was completed in 2009.
The academy is committed to offering a comprehensive approach to learning that encompasses the physical, mental, social, and spiritual aspects of each student. By integrating these elements into the educational experience, Laguna Niguel Jr. Academy aims to nurture well-rounded individuals who are not only academically proficient but also spiritually grounded.
At the core of the academy's mission is a Christ-centered curriculum that instills values of service and cooperation in each student. The emphasis on community fosters a sense of belonging and encourages students to contribute positively to society, shaping them into responsible and compassionate members of the community
The Multi-Grade Advantage
Laguna Niguel Jr. Academy features a unique educational setup with three classrooms catering to different grade levels: K-2, 3-5, and 6-8. The academy's approach to teaching multiple grades in one setting may spark curiosity about its effectiveness. However, parents can rest assured that this model offers numerous benefits for students.
The teachers at Laguna Niguel Jr. Academy embrace the multi-grade classroom setting, finding it enriching and conducive to student growth. By having students from different grade levels in the same classroom, there are several advantages that children can experience:
Stability
Having the same teacher for several years in a row can greatly benefit students in terms of developing trust and emotional security. It allows the teacher to understand the student's learning style, strengths, and weaknesses, enabling them to provide tailored instruction for optimal learning outcomes.
Flexibility
Students have the opportunity to engage in curriculum that matches their skill level in specific subjects rather than being restricted to their grade's standard curriculum. This flexibility enables students to excel in areas of strength and receive additional support in areas of weakness.
Collaborative
Older students play a crucial role in teaching younger students, fostering leadership skills and creating a collaborative learning environment. This interaction not only benefits the younger students in their cognitive and social development but also enhances the skills and confidence of the older students.
Re-Teaching & Pre-Teaching
The practice of re-teaching previously learned lessons to older students helps reinforce their understanding and clarity of concepts. On the other hand, pre-teaching allows younger students to get a head start by previewing lessons intended for older students, stimulating their thinking and preparing them for upcoming material.
Independence
Encouraging students to work independently instills a sense of self-reliance and autonomy in their learning journey. This fosters a culture of independent thinking and problem-solving skills, preparing students for academic and personal challenges in the future.
Our Teachers
Aime Cuevas
K-2nd Grade & Principal
Aime Cuevas brings a wealth of experience to her role as an educator, with over 20 years of dedication to shaping young minds. Her passion for children is evident in her commitment to instilling the love of Jesus in each child she encounters. Mrs. Cuevas places a strong emphasis on teaching responsibility, imparting valuable life lessons that extend beyond the classroom. In her personal time, Mrs. Cuevas finds solace in reading, finds inspiration in music, and cherishes moments spent with her family. Her favorite Bible verse, “Yet I still belong to you; you hold my right hand" from Psalm 73:23, reflects her unwavering faith and belief in divine guidance and support.
Christine Moningka
3rd-5th Grade
With over 15 years of experience in education, Christine Moningka enriches the LNJA teaching team with her expertise and dedication. In her teaching approach, Mrs. Moningka prioritizes the holistic development of her students, nurturing their minds, bodies, and souls to ensure comprehensive growth and well-being. Beyond the confines of the classroom, Mrs. Moningka finds joy and relaxation when surfing with her family at the beach, taking daily walks, and exploring thrift stores. Her favorite Bible verse, "Be still and know that I am God" from Psalm 46:10, reflects her belief in the power of faith, tranquility, and divine presence in guiding her life's journey.
Israel Nunez
6-8th Grade