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Commitment to Academic Excellence

East Palo Alto Charter School opened its doors in 1997 after receiving start-up funds from School Futures Research Foundation, a non-profit educational foundation started by John Walton of Wal-Mart. Reflective of the current community focus the school espouses, a group of parent advocates originally proposed the idea for a charter school to the local school board.

Driven by their enthusiasm, persistence, and dedication, the school began its first year with 185 students in grades K-6. A staff of 11 teachers led this first group of students through a year filled with surprises, adventures, and an unending commitment to academic excellence.

In the past six years, the East Palo Alto Charter School ("EPACS") has grown to serve over 415 students in grades K-9 from over 200 families in the East Palo Alto community. A staff of 23 inspired educators contribute to the school’s growth and overwhelming success.

In July of 2003, the school joined the network of charter schools managed by Aspire Public Schools. Aspire Public Schools is a non-profit charter organization committed to transforming public education in the state of California.

Despite significant changes, the school’s commitment to exceptional learning in a community environment continues to be at the forefront of its mission. The school continually seeks to refine its mission statement to reflect its changing goals and the needs of the community of East Palo Alto.