
CALIFORNIA SCHOOLS TO WATCH

California Schools to Watch is a statewide program implemented by the California League of Middle Schools, California Department of Education, California Middle Grades Alliance, National Forum, and the California Schools to Watch model schools.
Marco Forster Middle School

Designated 2026
Capistrano Unified School District
Orange County
Catherine Thompson, Principal
25601 Camino Del Avion, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675, USA
949-234-5907
School Characteristics
Grades Served: 6-8; Enrollment: 1,040
Replicable Practices
PLC practices - Our teams engage in collaborative practices that use data-driven dialogue to ensure high levels of learning for all through collective responsibility, shared strategies, and continuous improvement.
PACE - Practicing Advanced Concepts and Enrichment (PACE) is our dedicated intervention and enrichment period where staff use current student data to identify individual needs and provide targeted support or extension to ensure student progress.
PBIS - We use a consistent, school-wide approach that teaches, models, and reinforces positive behaviors to create a safe, supportive, predictable learning environment for all students.
Electives/Programs - Our robust electives program offers students both targeted support classes and a wide selection of engaging elective classes, empowering them to explore interests, develop talents, and grow academically; with a seven-period day, students in the mandated support class can still have the opportunity to take an elective class.
Our Roadrunner Ambassadors, part of the Where Everyone Belongs (WEB) program, empower student leaders to promote a culture of inclusivity and academic excellence, represent the campus with integrity, welcome and mentor new students, and help build a connected school community.