Built in 1977, Harold J. Ambuehl Elementary School is situated in a rustic location on the bank of San Juan Creek, surrounded by open fields and equestrian riding stables. Historic landmarks throughout the community, such as Mission San Juan Capistrano and the Los Rios Historic District, provide reminders of Early California.

Although Ambuehl prides itself on its historic atmosphere, we are committed to preparing productive young citizens in the 21st century. Named a California Distinguished School, there is a dedicated staff at each grade level that provides each student with learning experiences that are interesting, relevant, and meaningful to their everyday lives. Ambuehl’s educational program is a balance of intensive basic skills instruction in the fundamental subjects based on the California State Standards

Soaring Eagle Radio allows all K - 5 students to “broadcast” over the school's PA system from the principal’s office every morning. Each broadcast begins with a welcome from the principal.  This is followed by a student leading the entire school in the Pledge of Allegiance.  Rounding out each program is a short student joke (it’s always good to laugh in the morning), weather report, or special student/class reading (poem, etc.). 

Soaring Eagle Radio supports the English-language Arts Content Standards that students will write and speak with a command of standard English conventions that are appropriate to their grade level.

Personal growth is nurtured in each child during the school year. Student recognition takes place through weekly Character Counts Awards and Formal Friday Soaring Eagle Awards three times per school year. Students with perfect attendance during each reporting period, which is approximately 20 school days, receive a special award and recorded phone message from the principal.  Teachers also select students to sign the “Book of Winners” in the front office for outstanding behavior and/or academic performance.

Ambuehl has energetic parents who assist staff members and students throughout the school year in the classroom, front office, and throughout the school.  There is an active Parent Teacher Association (PTA) at Ambuehl. Their ongoing support has provided Ambuehl with various programs such as Meet the Masters, Red Ribbon Week, and assemblies such as Imagination Machine.  Elected parents on School Site Council oversee categorical money, grants, and the Single School Plan for Student Achievement along with elected staff members.

A Dell lab of 20 computers has Internet access for students and programs to support their grade level curriculum.  4th and 5th grade students have a computer lab that consists of 32 Apple computers with Dell monitors.  All teachers have a laptop computer, and many teachers have an Epson projector and Epson Doc Camera that is used during lessons in their classrooms.

Students, parents, and staff members enjoy being “Ambuehl Eagles.”  Once an Eagle, always an Eagle.  Have a Soaring Eagle Day!