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After 8 years at its current location on Alameda Point, the Bay Area School of Enterprise(BASE) will start the 2008-2009 school year at a new school site. Check out their website for more information, www.alternativesinaction.org . I'm excited because the new home for BASE means expanded programming for the high school youth! BASE will be co-located with other youth serving organizations like the Regional Occupational Program (ROP) and the Alameda Boys and Girls Club. Being right across the street from the College of Alameda doesn't hurt either. Congratulations BASE!

This is a relatively new school which offers a uniquely student-based hands-on approach to learning, with lots of support but high expectations. I have two students enrolled here and have found that they are constantly challenged - which can be frustrating for them - but which is ultimately very good. The parent/family involvement with the school is very high - more so than many secondary school programs and parent/community outreach efforts are becoming more standardized & accessible. This isn't a program for every student or every family but, if traditional classroom high schools are not for your student, go to an orientation, meet some students and families and listen to your student. Are they sincerely commited, do you all understand what the school is about, etc. I think it's a great place for my children.

Well, here's my inside scoop. As a sophomore at BASE,I learn daily about the importance of literature, mathematics, and history. In addition to these though, I am also encouraged to develop public speaking skills, handle important events of the school and interact with adults. Youth at BASE are taught along guidelines of 5 R's, which are Responsibilty, Risk, Rigor, Relationships, and Real-world experiences. BASE is by far the most interactive school I have ever attended, and I give my coaches/teachers full support. It is understandable that our coaches may not be as experienced, but they are learning also. I feel that just because a teacher has achieved more than those at BASE,or has more experience, that does not mean they teach well, or even fully understand the subject without a handbook. We all need support ....

While the ideas behind this school were inspiring, the implementation has been problematic. The teachers are not very experienced and have had serious problems with school discipline. The quality of the teaching is very low as evidenced by the test scores that show some improvement but are well below other high schools with similar demographics. I don't recommend this school to anyone, especially kids who have had problems in other schools. It could work for a child who is extremely well motivated and wants to set their own course.
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