4 Compass
Newport Coast, CA 92657

This school's academic standard is excellent. The offerings of sports and extra curriculum are fantastic. Mr. Ball choir program is a very special program and he cares so much about developing his students, mucically, profesionally and personally. Mama Mary Russell is a treasure for all kids that prepapre to go to college. Our two children are thriving in this school and we are very grateful.

People who say this school is like a private school clearly have not been to a private school. Your experience at NCE will be luck of the draw depending on grade and teacher.Cons:1. Teacher to student ratio is too high (similar to all CA public schools) so teachers don't have capacity to focus on each child. 25-30 kids per class with one teacher. Problem children will get more attention given teacher is spread too thin. If your child is not a problem child, he/she will not get much attention or positive reinforcement. Let that sink in.2. School is mostly Persians and Asians so you will be a minority if you are neither of those two demographics, hence lacking sense of real community.3. Lots of spoiled kids whose parents are just as spoiled and don't reign their kids in. My kids became exposed to gaming, social media, material things from their peers at NCE. Parents driving $200K - $500K cars but sending their kids to public school? You can see where the priority lies in many families.4. Luck of the draw with quality of teachers. Most are mediocre at best. Some are mean to kids and yell. 5. Curriculum is in line with state standard but little or no time for arts, science, performance, second language, etc. Extra curricular teachers are very sub-par.Pros:1. Facilities are nice compared to other public schools in Newport.2. School does have a smaller feel relative to other public schools but still does not compare to most private schools.3. Good selection of after school programs that you can sign up for.Conclusion: We were told by many people that NCE is as close to private as you can get. It could not be more false. Don't assume all private schools are equal. Christian schools that cost $10K/year in tuition are different from independent private schools that cost $25-50K/year. This review is for those considering private vs. public.