Carl Hankey K-8 School
Secular
Updated July 2026
Carl Hankey K-8 School is a public school in the Capistrano Unified School District and an authorized International Baccalaureate (IB) World School. It is the only public school in Orange County to offer an IB curriculum for students from kindergarten through eighth grade.
Teaching approach
The school emphasizes a holistic approach to education that focuses on the development of the whole child as an inquirer. It prioritizes critical thinking, intellectual challenge, and the ability to make connections between academic studies and the real world. The curriculum encourages students to become reflective, creative thinkers who are prepared for life in a globalized 21st century.
Programmes
The school offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) framework, consisting of the Primary Years Programme (PYP) for students aged 3 to 12 and the Middle Years Programme (MYP) for students aged 11 to 16. The PYP utilizes six transdisciplinary themes to integrate subject areas, while the MYP focuses on subjects such as Community and Service, Human Ingenuity, and Environments. Additionally, the school provides specialized instruction in Elementary Spanish and Middle School Design.
Outcomes
The school's IB curriculum is designed to provide students with a competitive advantage for high school, including preparation for Advanced Placement (AP) and IB Diploma Programme courses. The program aims to foster critical thinking, global engagement, and the skills necessary for future career success. In 2015, the middle school was recognized as a California Gold Ribbon School.
Student support
Learning support
The school is supported by the Carl Hankey International Education Foundation (CHIEF), an independent, non-profit organization. This foundation provides essential funding for specific educational programs, including Elementary Spanish classes and Middle School Design courses, which are not covered by the district.
Frequently asked questions(4)
- What curriculum does Carl Hankey K-8 School offer?
- Carl Hankey K-8 School offers IB PYP and IB MYP.
- What accreditations does Carl Hankey K-8 School hold?
- Carl Hankey K-8 School holds accreditations including IB.
- Is Carl Hankey K-8 School co-educational?
- Carl Hankey K-8 School is a co-ed school.
- Where is Carl Hankey K-8 School located?
- Carl Hankey K-8 School is an international school in Irvine, United States.
Tuition & fees
No published fee schedule was found for this school.
Admissions
Families interested in the school are encouraged to contact the administration for registration information. The school maintains a supportive community where parents and community members are invited to participate in school foundations and volunteer opportunities.
Calendar
The school hosts various community and fundraising events throughout the year, such as the annual Hawk Trot fun run and seasonal celebrations like "Holidays Around the World." Campus events often utilize the school's multi-purpose room and blacktop areas for gatherings and ceremonies.
About the campus
The campus features a multi-purpose room used for school events and community gatherings, as well as a blacktop area for assemblies and student activities. The school grounds are maintained through community-led initiatives, such as annual campus beautification days involving families and staff.
Co-curriculars
Students participate in a variety of school-wide events and activities, including the annual Hawk Trot fundraiser and campus beautification days. These events encourage community engagement and provide opportunities for students and families to collaborate outside of the traditional classroom setting.
- Christina MiggePrincipal
Serves as the Principal of Carl Hankey K-8 School and is a representative on the Carl Hankey International Education Foundation (CHIEF) board. She participated in the school's 2025 Slime Day fundraiser.
- AdamsVice Principal
Serves as the Vice Principal of Carl Hankey K-8 School. She participated in the school's 2025 Slime Day fundraiser.
- Paul CharronPresident
Serves as the President of the Carl Hankey International Education Foundation (CHIEF) board for the 2025-2026 term.
- Peter BabiloTreasurer
Serves as the Treasurer of the Carl Hankey International Education Foundation (CHIEF) board for the 2025-2026 term.
- Tiffany RobertsVP Grants
Serves as the VP of Grants for the Carl Hankey International Education Foundation (CHIEF) board for the 2025-2026 term.
- Nikki FordVP of Community Education
Serves as the VP of Community Education for the Carl Hankey International Education Foundation (CHIEF) board for the 2025-2026 term.
IB PYP