Sovannary Virak
Blue Cross Blue Shield
We are bringing a customized approach to day to day operations.
The unique challenges of inner city schools require unique solutions. Our State Charter enables us to build-in institutional flexibility in order to implement educational innovations that succeed. They include:
  • restructuring graduation requirements to include portfolio
  • incorporating paid internships and field study
  • alternate learning opportunities
  • a popular summer session which increases the school year to 200 days
  • an average of 17 students per classroom
  • longitudinal testing of all students using NWEA
In addition, the School agrees to place every qualified student in a job with a mentor and prepare them for college. Parents are also a part of the successful education equation. Our parents participate at the heart of the program and meet with teachers during the day. They must be involved and dedicated to help the student stay focused.

Students bring a commitment to change.
In exchange for increased opportunity students commit themselves to fulfilling the requirements of the school. Every student makes a contractual agreement to:

Kerry Long & Andy Jimenez
Providence Washington Insurance
  • achieve 95% attendance,
  • work to maintain a C average in every course of study,
  • behave in a work-appropriate manner.
The application process also ensures that students are dedicated to ideals of the school. It includes:
  • completed application,
  • meeting with the assigned Education Career Advisor (ECA) and special needs and/or Limited English Proficiency teacher if applicable,
  • visiting the school a minimum of 3 days and shadowing a grade-appropriate student,
  • attendance at parent/group orientation for adults and students,
  • ECA home visit with parent/guardian,
  • copies of permanent record card, ID numbers, health records,
  • copy of final report card,
  • mandatory summer school attendance of 30 days.

Rocky Lubeu
Women & Infants		 Balancing core competency with work study.
In keeping with the approach of our Charter, we are implementing a four-year program that includes the basics as well as career skills. The course of study selected by each student fits his or her personal goals, and includes an initial two-year curriculum, followed by a two-year college prepatory and internship program at the Upper School.

The Lower School incorporates grades 9 and 10, where students pursue core competency, in: Algebra, Geometry, English, Western Civilization, US History, Biology, Physical Science, Spanish 1 & 2 and Health/Lifestyle. To continue through the program, students will demonstrate proficiency in each area.

Upon successful completion of the Lower School, the student enters the Upper School, which incorporates grades 11 &12. This is a significant achievement in each student's career and is celebrated by a major public ceremony.
The Upper School includes traditional courses, community service and independent study. The student forms a personal graduation committee to develop a plan for two years of study. The committee guides and reviews the course of study over the two years and is comprised of teachers, a parent/mentor, and a student representative.
Graduation accomplishments.
Our unique approach to graduation produces young adults who think critically and can succeed in the professional world. We are implementing a program of study where graduation is dependent on the committee's acceptance of an oral presentation of a completed portfolio as well as evidence of quality thinking and performance. The portfolio demonstrates knowledge and mastery of skills in both work and academic arenas. The internship program is a critical part of the Upper School experience and is a graduation requirement.