Capistrano Unified School District Early Childhood Preschool Programs

Capistrano Unified School District Early Childhood Preschool Programs is part of CUSD’s Early Childhood Programs, which include general education and special education options. The preschool classrooms are one of several offerings that also include the Learning Link interactive learning center and the Early Start Program for younger children.

• Ages: 3–5 years old

Capistrano Unified School District Early Childhood Programs was founded in 1965. The programs support children from birth through age 5 and include a variety of preschool options, such as the California State Preschool Program, tuition-based preschool, half-day and full-day preschool sessions, language-immersion preschool options, and a Transitional Kindergarten program for 4-year-olds who are 4 by September 1. The Learning Link serves children from birth to age 5 with an interactive learning center model, and the Early Start Program is a special education program for children under 3 years old with low incidence disabilities. The district states that it is committed to providing a quality educational program that enhances the social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development of each child. CUSD Early Childhood Programs collaborates with programs and community partners. The leadership team includes directors, coordinators, specialists, support staff, and district administrators such as Lauren Pattullo, Ed. D., Angela Dryden, Rachelle Sakemi, Rana Shah, Psy. D., Elisabeth Elsea, Rhysa Suh, BCBA, Sandra Herrera, Ramon Hernandez, Adriana E. Rodriguez, Afrina Afshar, Cynthia Ramirez, Fernanda Santillan, Dr. Christopher Brown, Clark Hampton, Dr. Gregory J. Merwin, Bob Presby, Ryan Burris, and Lauren Pattullo in an additional listed role. CUSD states that it prohibits discrimination, intimidation, harassment (including sexual harassment), or bullying based on specified protected characteristics.

Last updated February 17, 2026.