Need feedback on Oak Grove Elementary School in Aliso Viejo and in general on Aliso Viejo (Irvine: apartments)

[df1970]

As we are finishing our home finding trip (relo from NJ), we are zooming in on a newly built single family home at The Pasadera community (Shae Homes) in Aliso Viejo.
Really liked the villages Of Irvine before, it's school reviews but simply I would get more for my buck in Aliso Viejo it seems. BUT, I know very little about the Pasadera community, Aliso Viejo and the elementary school it belongs to (oak grove).
I would appreciate your feedback on any or all of the above especially on the school. I have my expectations set right, so I know it is not going to be NJ standard and probably not as good as an Irivine school, but absolutely no clue how good or bad the school is and if bad, any other options exist.

And last, if anyone has any hints on a short term rent until September in the area that would be fantastic!

Really appreciate the help!

[pacific2]

I’m also a transplant from the NE (Manhattan), but I’ve lived in Aliso Viejo for several years, so I may be able to help with specific questions you might have about AV.

Regarding schools, Irvine schools do tend to be top ranked and are rated higher than most of those in surrounding communities, including Aliso Viejo, but I can’t answer your questions about Oak Grove. Still, the schools are said to be good both in Aliso and in South County in general.

Someone else would be able to give you firsthand information. In the meantime, try this Great Schools site for info:
GreatSchools.org Search: oak grove elementary school, aliso viejo, ca

St. Mary’s in Aliso Viejo has an International Baccalaureate program, and might be option if you have concerns about Oak Grove, but others would know more about this:
St. Mary's School | Private IB World School in Orange County, California

About a short-term apartment rental, check-out Alicante Apartments on Aliso Creek Road. I stayed there when I first moved to Aliso Viejo and found management to be responsive; and the grounds are clean and well-maintained. The complex is large with plenty of grassy areas. What’s more, it’s very easy to meet people there.

Alicante Apartments | Aliso Viejo, CA | Sequoia Equities - YouTube
and
Aliso Viejo Apartments | Alicante Apartment Homes in Aliso Viejo, CA 92656

[pacific2]

About Pasadera, as you know, it’s new, so apart from just being in Aliso Viejo, there probably isn’t much of a sense of being in a separate community.

Unlike Irvine (pop= 212,375 in 66 sq. mi), Aliso is a very small city (pop=47,823 in 7.5 sq. mi) without identifiable, or developer-proclaimed, “villages.”

Everyone seems to do most of their day- to-day shopping at Town Center and makes use of the same City amenities.

[00molavi]

I second Alicante as an apt complex that is safe and fun to stay in.

We moved there from CT and were happy. We used another elemntary school; elementary schools are less of a concern, can tell you that the middle school was good.

We looked at the shea houses back in 2008 and felt they were too close to each other and di not like the floorplans. We felt you get more for your money in the rest of AV and even Laguna Niguel. Hopefully you have found what works for you.

Unfortunately we had to move out due to job change, so never bought anything.

[df1970]

Thanks so much, everyone, very helpful!