Business Details
25 Years
experience
Empowering Youth Through Student-Led Education in Oakland
Founded in 2001 as the nation's first youth-initiated charter high school, we have dedicated over two decades to empowering students through student-led learning and community engagement. Our educational model emphasizes ownership of learning, partnership with caring adults, and transformative community impact. Accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, we serve Bay Area youth seeking to reshape their lives and neighborhoods. Our approach combines academic rigor with real-world experience, fostering leadership skills that extend beyond the classroom. With a history of unanimous charter renewals and a 20th-anniversary celebration in 2017, we maintain a proven track record of educational innovation.Our staff and board members bring diverse expertise in education, public health, and community development, ensuring comprehensive support for student success. We prioritize accessibility through bilingual services and flexible enrollment processes, welcoming students year-round. Our Oakland campus in the Seminary neighborhood provides a dedicated space for academic growth and community collaboration. Through athletics, career development programs, and community service initiatives, we cultivate well-rounded leaders prepared to transform their environments. Our commitment to equity and justice in education drives continuous program improvement and community partnerships.
Services
Charter High School Education
Student-Led Learning Programs
Community Engagement Initiatives
Career Development Services
Athletics Programs
Details
- Year established: 2001
Highlights and features
- We pioneered the nation's first youth-initiated charter school model
- Our WASC-accredited programs emphasize student ownership of learning
- We maintain 20+ years of proven educational innovation and success
- Our staff combines expertise in education, public health, and community development
- We offer bilingual services and flexible year-round enrollment options
Associations and certifications
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges
Services
Charter High School Education
Our WASC-accredited charter high school provides student-led learning experiences that combine academic rigor with real-world applications. We empower youth to take ownership of their education through personalized learning plans and community partnerships. Our Oakland-based program prepares students for college, career, and civic engagement through experiential learning opportunities.
Student-Led Learning Programs
We implement innovative learning models where students design and lead their educational journeys. This approach develops critical thinking, leadership, and problem-solving skills through project-based learning and community service initiatives. Our faculty serves as facilitators in this transformative educational experience.
Community Engagement Initiatives
Our programs connect students with local organizations to create meaningful community impact. Through service learning projects, students develop civic responsibility while addressing local challenges. These initiatives strengthen community ties and demonstrate the power of youth leadership.
Career Development Services
We offer career readiness programs that include internship opportunities, job shadowing, and professional skills training. Our services help students transition from education to employment through partnerships with local businesses and organizations in the Bay Area.
Athletics Programs
Our athletic programs promote physical wellness, teamwork, and leadership development. Students participate in competitive sports while learning valuable life skills that complement their academic pursuits and personal growth.
People
Dr. Nanyonjo
Chair
Public health expert with 24 years of experience, specializing in health equity and community well-being. Former Director of Public Health for Merced County and leader in disability services. Holds doctorate and master's degrees in public health.
Sharad
Board Member
Marketing and digital media professional with experience at Google, YouTube, and Microsoft. UC Berkeley graduate committed to Oakland community improvement through educational initiatives and business expertise.
Josh Ruggles
Staff Representative
Educator with extensive experience in mathematics instruction and curriculum development. Holds administrative credentials and combines business acumen with educational leadership to advance equity in Oakland schools.
Belinda M.
Student Representative
Current student leader representing youth voice in school governance. Actively participates in shaping educational policies and programs that affect student experiences and outcomes.
Maria R.
Parent Representative
Parent advocate committed to educational excellence and community engagement. Provides parental perspective in decision-making processes to ensure programs meet family and student needs effectively.
Questions
What makes Alternatives in Action High School unique?
We are the nation's first youth-initiated charter high school, emphasizing student-led learning and community partnerships in our educational approach.
How do students apply to your school?
Students can apply online through Oakland Enrolls or submit paper applications during campus visits. We accept applications year-round when space is available.
What programs do you offer for student development?
We provide academic programs with WASC accreditation, career development services, athletics, and community engagement initiatives to foster holistic student growth.
Is your school accredited?
Yes, Alternatives in Action High School maintains full accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
What areas do you serve?
We primarily serve youth from the Bay Area, with a focus on Oakland and surrounding communities.
Do you offer bilingual services?
Yes, we provide bilingual services including Spanish-language application support and campus communication.
