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East Palo Alto Charter School


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"Every student should develop into a literate, motivated and confident individual devoted to serving the community and pursuing academic excellence."
Our School
EPACS at a Glance
  • 420 Students in K-8
  • 145 Students in 9-12
  • 80% Latino
  • 18% African-American
  • 2% Asian or Pacific Islander
  • 55% English language learners
  • 87% Qualify for free/reduced-price lunch
Our Mission

To foster a positive learning experience where every student can develop into a literate, motivated and confident individual devoted to serving the community and pursuing academic excellence.
Over a decade ago, a group of parent advocates proposed the idea for a charter school to the Ravenswood City School District. In 1997, we opened our doors after receiving start-up funds from the School Futures Research Foundation, a non-profit education foundation started by John Walton of Wal-Mart. In 2002 and 2007, with the help of Ravenswood, we renewed our charter to continue to bring quality education to the community.

Today, at 420 students, we provide a quality education for grades K through 8. In 2006, EPACS families launched a high school, East Palo Alto Phoenix Academy ("EPAPA"), which now serves almost 150 students in grades 9-12. Thus, against the backdrop of a 73% high school drop out rate in East Palo Alto, EPACS and EPAPA comprise a K-12 educational community dedicated to preparing all of our students for college sucess.

EPACS' unique program ensures students receive the education and attention they require while exposing them to activities and opportunities they otherwise would not experience.

To understand the school better, learn about: