The pine tree in our emblem represents the one inscribed on the famous Pine Tree Shilling — the first "American-spirit" coin. Minted in defiance of the King’s order by the Massachusetts settlers in 1652, the Pine Tree Shilling filled their need for an honest, stable money.

Because the pine tree became a symbol for resistance to tyranny, the flags of several New England colonies pictured it along with the inscription, "An Appeal to Heaven."

Those flags were carried by our forefathers into the early battles for American independence.

Our original emblem included a mountain, which is inspired by Saddleback Mountain overlooking south Orange County, and represents the Biblical metaphor of a high place in thought, a symbol of the ascending heights to which we humans aspire.

The pine tree in our emblem represents the one inscribed on the famous Pine Tree Shilling — the first "American-spirit" coin. Minted in defiance of the King’s order by the Massachusetts settlers in 1652, the Pine Tree Shilling filled their need for an honest, stable money.

Because the pine tree became a symbol for resistance to tyranny, the flags of several New England colonies pictured it along with the inscription, "An Appeal to Heaven."

Those flags were carried by our forefathers into the early battles for American independence.

Our original emblem included a mountain, which is inspired by Saddleback Mountain overlooking south Orange County, and represents the Biblical metaphor of a high place in thought, a symbol of the ascending heights to which we humans aspire.

Carden Academy of Mission Viejo has flourished along with the community. It was founded in 1994 by Patricia Cullinane and now has a student body of over 225.

At Carden Academy students are surrounded by others with the same common goals and aspirations. They find an environment where academic achievement is esteemed and doesn’t interfere with social acceptance. With the combination of Mae Carden’s method and curriculum, our unique approach to teaching, and a wonderful staff, we at Carden Academy are offering you and your children the finest education available today.

Carden Academy of Mission Viejo has flourished along with the community. It was founded in 1994 by Patricia Cullinane and now has a student body of over 225.

At Carden Academy students are surrounded by others with the same common goals and aspirations. They find an environment where academic achievement is esteemed and doesn’t interfere with social acceptance. With the combination of Mae Carden’s method and curriculum, our unique approach to teaching, and a wonderful staff, we at Carden Academy are offering you and your children the finest education available today.