Education for Change launched in 2005 with a mission to reimagine what’s possible for Oakland’s public schools. We began as a partner to Oakland Unified School District to transform historically underperforming schools into thriving learning communities — places where students are truly seen, supported, and set up to succeed.

What started with the conversion of two schools grew into a full network. Today, we operate six free, public charter schools across the Fruitvale and Elmhurst neighborhoods, serving more than 3,000 students from TK through 12th grade.

Our students come from communities too often underserved by the traditional system — 90% qualify as part of the state’s unduplicated count. In the neighborhoods we serve, half of the children don’t graduate from their zoned high school. But we are helping change that story — with high expectations, a deep belief in our students’ potential, and a learning environment built with them in mind.

At EFC, students are challenging the predictable patterns of performance and access in this country. They are mastering essential academic skills, building personal agency, and developing the confidence and identity needed to lead meaningful, productive lives.