School Profile

2007-2008 Profile

CEEB Code 053197

The Community JSerra Catholic High School is located in San Juan Capistrano, California, one of the oldest cities in Orange County. San Juan Capistrano and the surrounding towns are largely residential communities. San Juan Capistrano is
characterized by its cultural diversity and unique history as a California mission town. The region of south Orange County is primarily middle and middle-upper class where most adults are college-educated and hold professional or semi-professional occupations.

The School JSerra Catholic High is a comprehensive four-year college preparatory high school enrolling 925 students in grades nine through twelve. Founded in 2003, it is the first lay founded, private Roman Catholic high school in California and the fourth in the country. JSerra is recognized as a private, Roman Catholic high school by the Diocese of Orange County, California.

JSerra strives to provide a well-rounded education putting an emphasis on the formation of the whole person- intellectually, spiritually, physically, and emotionally.

The curriculum is integrated with the traditions and beliefs of the Roman Catholic doctrine. The faculty creates a learning environment where students and their parents are encouraged to work cooperatively with the administration and teachers. Religious education, the use of technology, extracurricular activities, and active involvement in Christian service projects are
important facets in the students’ overall educational experience. Serving locally and globally is an integral part of the mission and philosophy of the school.

JSerra is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and the Western Catholic Education Association. It is a member of the College Board and the National Catholic Educational Association.

The Curriculum The academic program is organized in a modified block schedule. A full course load is 35 units per semester with students carrying seven courses. Students meet each class four times per week.

A minimum of 270 units is required for graduation. Graduation requirements include: 40 units (4 years) religion; 30 units (3 years) social studies, 40 units (4 years) English; 30 units (3 years) mathematics; 30 units (3 years) science; 20 units (2 years) foreign language; 20 units (2 years) fine arts; 35 units (3.5 years) electives; 5 units (.5 years) health; and 20 units (2 years)
physical education.

Advanced Placement (AP) courses are offered in Art History, Biology, Calculus AB, Chemistry, English Language, English Literature, European History, French Language, Physics, Spanish Language, Studio Art, U.S. Government, and U.S. History. AP is a selective enrollment program. In 2006-2007, 81 students enrolled in AP courses; 81 students sat for 110 exams; of the 110 exams taken, 52% received scores of 3, 4, or 5.

Honors courses are offered in all subject areas except physical education.

Students must also complete 80 hours of Christian Service (20 hours per academic year).

Grading JSerra assigns letter grades using a 4.0 system. Letter grades are assigned as follows:

A = 90% – 100%; B = 80% – 89%; C = 70% – 79%; D = 60% – 69%; F = 59% and less.

Advanced Placement and honors courses are weighted by one point for all grades of C or better. All credit classes are included in computing total grade point average. Grades are reported on the transcript; two semester grades per class, per year.

Test Scores
76% of the Class of 2007 took the SAT Reasoning Test.
Middle 50% Verbal: 430-600
Middle 50% Math: 510-590
62% of the Class of 2007 took the ACT Exam.
Middle 50% Composite: 17-24

College Attendance History 101 students graduated in the Class of 2007. 101 students (100% of the class) continued their education after high school, 25% to Roman Catholic institutions. Of the 101 students, 35% matriculated to 4-year out-of-state institutions; 40% matriculated to 4-year in-state institutions; and 25% matriculated to 2-year institutions. Some of the colleges and universities where JSerra students have been accepted include:

Contact Information
JSerra Catholic High School
26351 Junipero Serra Road
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
ATP/CEEB Code: 053197
CDS Code: 36 67652 3631157
Principal: Mr. Thomas R. Waszak
Guidance Counselor: Mrs. Jami LaFave
Email: jlafave@jserra.org
Direct: (949) 493-9020
Phone: (949) 493-9307
Fax: (949) 493-9308