About our School

Cultivating a Community of Learners

Cambridge Heights Open School is one of six alternative schools in the San Juan Unified School District. Students from throughout the District may enroll as there are no attendance boundaries. Enrollment occurs in January through a District lottery system. Parents who choose to enroll their children in the alternative school program must realize that parent involvement, support and positive attendance are crucial to the overall success of their students and the program.

Our Mission Statement

Our physically open design (POD) provides an enriched learning environment through team teaching, flexible student groupings and collaboration. Students, educators, and parents, together, cultivate a caring community emphasizing academic standards and social skills. Enrichment and intervention activities are provided to meet the diverse needs of our students. Our mission is to foster self-directed and self-disciplined life-long learners who contribute to society in meaningful ways.

Our Building

Our school site was modernized during the 2004/2005 school year. The facility was updated and made handicap accessible throughout. The physical structure of our school remains unique. Classrooms are not isolated, but instead are clustered in Pods. Each Pod houses two grade levels, with the exception of Pod A, which is the Kindergarten space. The library is located in the open space connecting grade level Pods. The new computer lab connects the library to the office and Kindergarten Pod. Two portable classrooms near the main building are available for music, art, science and P.E. A 5,000 square foot multipurpose building opened in fall 2001. This facility, complete with stage, kitchen, regulation basketball and volleyball courts and a sound system, is used as a cafeteria, gym and auditorium for the entire student body. Community and district groups use the facility for after-school and evening activities.

Parent Involvement

We appreciate and value our parent volunteers! They enhance opportunities for learning in the classroom in many ways. Each teacher and Pod provides unique volunteer opportunities for parents.  Pod coordinators and teachers facilitate the use of volunteers in the classroom programs.