Oakland School for the Arts

There are many positive aspects to this school. However, there are some negative aspects also. The math proficiency scores for the school are frighteningly low. If your student struggles in math, don't expect this school to help him/her. The proficiency rating in math is around 25% - meaning only 25% of the students are proficient in their grade level of math. Which is appalling. Certain teachers are problematic in that they are so wrapped up on their special causes, it can lead them to be unfair. My student has been called out and reprimanded for asking questions about the class structure. This same teacher has acted in a discriminatory manner based on race. The emphasis teachers are not on campus for the entire school day. This shortened day with the multitude of activities in the school pretty much guarantee that it can be impossible to contact or talk to certain teachers. The schools is excellent at painting a very rosy picture, but there are some serious issues to considered when sending your child here.
--Submitted by a parent

My son had been struggling socially at other schools since kindergarten which has affected his academics greatly. He is now and has always been an individual which has always made it harder for him to "fit in". He has worried what others think of him and if they like him, which has always distracted him and made it harder for him to focus on his school work. He has been bullied and left out so much it has been heart breaking to watch. This school has been the first place ever that he has fit in. He has (100s of) friends, his grades have improved and he actually WANTS to go to school. He says it is "like camp" . The school really has taken him under their wing. They do not tolerate bullying. The school is like a big family that looks out for each other. The kids are amazing. They all remind me of my son.. amazing, creative, loving and talented. The academics are great. My friends who have kids in top Oakland public schools and I have compared work and OSA is ahead in all areas of study. I am amazed that a school like this exists. It is a dream come true for our family. If your child is artistic and struggling to fit in in other schools I HIGHLY recommend this school! :)
--Submitted by a parent

My daughter is entering high school and has spent two years at OSA in middle school. Although the school has challenges to strengthen its academics, especially at the high school level, the overall experience has been very positive for her. The students and most of the teachers are very passionate about their arts emphasis and overall learning.
--Submitted by a parent

Our daughter is entering 8th grade at OSA -- We are very pleased with her experience at OSA- Amazing what can be done in a public charter school with great leadership and vision- She has exceled both academically and within her vocal emphasis - It is a diverse environment - which contributes to the learning experience.
--Submitted by a parent

This school is such a joke, poor academics, out of control GHETTO KIDS! and only a handful of good teachers who truly care about their students. I would not recommend this school to anyone. I'm so glad that i'm not going back to OSA. Just how many of these kids really go onto a four year college? They never say. Parents beware!!!

My daughter has attended the school for 3years now. We were pleased and enthusiastic about being at such a wonderful school and being part of the instrumental department. With the recent restructuring of this department during the middle of the school year was quite disruptive. I also feel that security is also an issue in and around the school. Lastly the school should really look in to bullying. I think they have a closed mind and blind eye to this topic. It actually goes on and no one seems to care
--Submitted by a parent

My child is in their 2nd [and last] year at OSA. We have been very unhappy (mildly stated) with the Instrumental Music Department. My child (and classmates) are openly mocked and humiliated by teachers. My child has had grades entered, then lowered, without explanation. My child (and others) are actually told the school has a waiting list of kids who are probably better musicians and that they could easily be replaced. There was a petition, signed by Instrumental Music families, which addressed these same concerns and experiences. I participated in Instrumental Music Department meetings for families where these concerns and experiences were discussed. My child reports some improvement and less humiliation, but no longer has trust in the teachers. No school polices have been enacted to ensure that a respectful, encouraging learning environment will be created and maintained. Parents' only true recourse is to remove their children from the school, which we are doing, and as over 20% of Instrumental Music families did last year. The shame is the school has some outstanding academic teachers who go above and beyond to help the kids.
--Submitted by a parent

Cannot say enough about how thrilled we are with OSA. Our daughter is in the Literary Arts emphasis, ninth grade. The director and other staff of the program are highly-qualified and super energetic, and have connected the students with great artists and opportunities. What a jewel of a program. The program and the school overall have surpassed our hopes. Parent involvement is off the hook. Our high achieving, quirky kid has connected with her tribe at OSA is learning a ton, and adores school. -- Delighted parent

I agree with the student who states the children should post their reviews. This is my son's second year at OSA and he loves this school. If your child is showing interests in any of the arts emphasis you will not be disappointed. It fees so good to see a group of kids that have the opportunity to work as pre professionals. Mr Savage is no joke (in love) he has high expectations for the students in his emphasis and is even harder on them with regards to their academics. If you do not maintain the proper GPA your child will not participate in the school events. I LOVE OSA!!!!
--Submitted by a parent

This is our first year at OSA and our last. This school is by far not what it is stating to be. Do your research before you send your children here and talk to other parents who kids attend this school. Fighting in the streets at the corner of the Fox theater, have seen this take place at least 3 times. NO SECURITY!!!
--Submitted by a parent