Open School Inc.

Overview

Open School Inc. is a nonprofit educational organization based in Portland, Oregon, dedicated to providing alternative education options for students, particularly those who are underserved and facing systemic challenges. Founded in 1971, it is recognized as one of Portland's oldest alternative school programs.

Mission Statement

The mission of Open School Inc. is to create an educational community grounded in equity, advocacy, and academics. The organization strives to support marginalized students as they work to overcome limiting beliefs and navigate systemic oppression, empowering them to pursue their personal and academic goals.

Programs Offered

Open School Inc. operates mainly through two educational programs:

• Open School East: An identity-affirming high school that helps students in grades 9 through 12 catch up academically and prepare for graduation. The curriculum is designed to be culturally relevant and includes credit recovery options, small class sizes, and daily peer groups led by mentor teachers known as Advocates.

• Step Up Program: This mentoring initiative supports students in their transition through high school journeys at local high schools, including Roosevelt, Franklin, and Madison. This program focuses on relationship-building and empowerment for students entering the 9th grade.

Educational Approach

Open School Inc. employs a unique educational philosophy aimed at fostering a supportive and inclusive atmosphere. Key features include:

• Culturally-Relevant Curriculum: Instruction that reflects the diverse backgrounds of the students.

• Restorative Justice Practices: An approach that emphasizes healing and accountability over punitive measures.

• Social-Emotional Support: Resources provided to help students manage their emotional well-being alongside their academic pursuits.

Community Engagement

Open School Inc. emphasizes the importance of collaboration with families and the community. This engagement is integral to ensuring that the educational environment is reflective of and responsive to the needs of its students.

Accreditation and Recognition

Open School East is accredited by Cognia and is recognized by the Oregon Department of Education as a private school. It has a track record of success in helping students achieve their educational goals while also preparing them for post-secondary education and careers.

Financial Information

As a 501(c)(3) organization, contributions to Open School Inc. are tax-deductible. The organization primarily funds its initiatives through donations, which account for a significant portion of its annual revenue. In recent fiscal years, the organization reported substantial contributions, underscoring the community’s support for its mission.

Conclusion

Open School Inc. continues to play a crucial role in the educational landscape of Portland, Oregon, by providing tailored educational experiences for students who may not thrive in traditional educational settings. Through its commitment to equity and advocacy, Open School Inc. aims to transform the lives of its students and, by extension, the community at large.

[1] https://www.pps.net/Page/1947 [2] https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/930757378 [3] https://www.openschooloc.com/basic-info/ [4] https://openschoolnw.org [5] https://giveguide.org/nonprofits/open-school