2171 Castilla Way
Oceanside, CA 92056

This is our third son to go through MLK. We have had good experiences here. When we had issues with the staff I have been able to bring them to the appropriate counselor and work through them to our satisfaction. The education is high quality and fair. A lot of the kids have military parents and they get stressed when mom or dad deploy. But it also brings a high level of discipline and dedication to the school environment. The kids are great to be around. Some of the staff had our oldest son twenty two years ago, and a few are just beginning their teaching careers, so it's a nice mix of experience and fresh ideas.The security on campus is very tight. I feel safe leaving my child at school, or at least as safe as any parent can these days. The Oceanside PD has a great working relationship with the principal and administration and does not hesitate to show up when necessary, but they also make a point not to be heavy handed. School security is a fine balance these days. We are happy with the challenging high tech classes and classics that our son is learning at MLK Middle School. He is getting a good foundation for high school and college, and is happy and excited to go to school each day. You can't ask for much more from middle school.

The OUSD district and administrators of El Camino are not providing appropriate supports for students with severe autism and behavioral challenges. The special ed department on campus is not equipped with adequate infrastructure, amenities, or adaptive tools. The psychology department has not directly engaged non-verbal students as they would verbal students that reach out for their support. They do not seem to have the will to suggest behaviorally trained staff be hired and work in the classrooms to support teachers or students.Gates are left wide open during school hours even though they describe themselves as a "closed campus" which is a misnomer. This practice is in place regardless of documented safety incidents that have occurred on campus and in the nearby neighborhoods. This ranges from weapons being brought onto campus and special ed students eloping and experiencing mental health crises on campus. The principal has prioritized delivery trucks (there for the students) maintaining ease of access and not having the will to have security teams open and close the gates for such deliveries. OUSD District representatives including Saul Watson (Interim Coordinator of Student and Family Services) and Erin Wade (Special Ed Coordinator) have remained silent on the open-gate issue even when notified about the practice.If you have an overachieving student that has strong independent skills and is self motivated then this school will provide adequate opportunities.We have had 3 students attend this high school.

Something has changed - this school used to be amazing. Now - I would not enroll or recommend enrolling.