Open Alternative School

We have had our children at OAS for a total of 9 years so far. My eldest is now in Jr. high and thriving both socially as well as academically. I believe this is proof of the wonderful teaching going on at OAS. The hands-on approach to learning academics along with the emphasis on the importance of learning to be socially responsible, have made this wonderful school stand out. Core Group is an amazing part of each day's curriculum in every grade. It is a vehicle for dealing with challenges that may come up for students during the day, as well as appreciations that want to be expressed. Core Group fosters a safe and effective environment for students to work out social challenges. The two head teachers that have been at OAS since my children have attended, have held both teaching, as well as administrative credentials. The philosophy of Progressive Education at OAS means that administrators and teachers are consistently learning new methods and theories to advance the learning that takes place. Many parents, like myself, are also involved in the learning that happens at OAS, and the best part for our family is that the environment at this school is organic and authentic.
--Submitted by a parent

Our children have learned to learn, not just memorize. They've learned to have an appreciation for education while also learning how to respect others. Granted, our children started in kindergarden and had the full OAS experience while others (bullies?) may have more trouble adjusting when coming in later. This is a problem in all schools. Our eldest child is a straight A student in junior high after attending seven years of OAS. And while I'm pleased at the grades I'm more pleased to know that my children enjoy school and learning. As far as leadership goes, OAS has had some unfortunate circumstances due to budget cuts, etc. that have required an inordinate amount of principal time and effort. Overall I'm pleased with leadership and the parent participation in the school. The school does a great job with it's limited resources and it's amazing that it is a free public school open to anyone in the Santa Barbara Elementary School District!
--Submitted by a parent

I notice a lot of the reviews are from 2009. This is our second and final year at OAS and I feel it is slipping away. We have had trouble with bullying all year. The teachers are great but their hands are tied in matters of getting the kids to listen or behave. The current head teacher (a.k.a. principal) is not credentialed or, in my opinion, qualified to run a school. This fact is slowly degrading the quality of education and the experience at OAS.
--Submitted by a parent

OAS is a wonderful school, that is truly a community of teachers, staff, children and parents who come together to offer a unique, engaging, and effective learning experience.
--Submitted by a parent

My children have excelled at the Open Alternative School! Academically, they are pushed to their potential. OAS has the ability to individualize instruction which sets this school above all other public schools. The students at OAS are responsible, caring and bright. I am proud to say my children attend OAS.
--Submitted by a parent

OAS is criticized for it's lack of academics by people who have never set foot on our campus. The truth is OAS students are superior academically. Here are a few facts... -3 out of 4 of the La Cumbre students chosen for the Tri-County Gate Leadership Conference were OAS students. -The two essays awarded for the ADL 7th-12th grade contest were OAS students currently in the 7th grade. -The Renaissance Club (Honors Club) has an extremely high percentage of OAS students. Get the facts on OAS, it's an amazing school!
--Submitted by a parent

My children love going to school! They are flowering in an engaging environment that creates a love for learning and instills respect for others.
--Submitted by a parent

OAS has a style of teaching that encourages individuality, independence and self worth... yet, not all of the teachers have mastered the delicate balance between this type of child centered instruction and the need for clear expectations and structure. The school is a parent co-op, but leans more on parents than any other co-op I've been exposed to. Be prepared to participate financially and physicially in every class activity. Their lunch program is excellent and the on campus child care teacher is its most valuable asset.
--Submitted by a parent

The people and the relationships and the caring are the best! Kids are not squashed but allowed to blossom at their own individual rate.
--Submitted by a parent

Open Alternative School has been a great place for my 6th grader. He's learned a lot about treating people with respect, feeling confident his his ideas and abilities, excelling in creative writing, math and the sciences. Most of all, he has a love of learning that he can take with him to all his other places of learning throughout his life.
--Submitted by a parent