Four years ago, 8th grade parents and students from East Palo Alto Charter School ("EPACS"), formed a small college preparatory high school designed to prepare students from East Palo Alto for success in college. Referencing their determination to overcome the myriad challenges facing their community, the students named the school East Palo Alto Phoenix Academy. Our school — sometimes referred to as "EPAPA" or "Phoenix Academy" — currently serves 140 students in grades 9-12.

We are extremely proud of our founding class — all of our seniors were accepted to four-year universities. And on June 19, 2010, they "turned their tassles" in our very first graduation ceremony. These pioneers will head off to colleges like University of Arizona, Chico State, and Wheelock College (in Boston) this fall.

Students at Phoenix Academy participate in a rigorous program of study which includes A-G required courses along with community college courses offered through Cañada College. They will graduate with a minimum of 15 college credits, a diploma, and the skills and habits necessary to be successful at the university level.

Together, EPACS and EPAPA form a K-12 educational community whose mission is to support and challenge students from kindergarten to their college acceptance letter and beyond. This amazing work would not be possible without the support of Aspire Public Schools, the families and community members of East Palo Alto, the Sequoia Union High School District, and our generous donors.

We invite you to use this website to explore our school and contribute to our success. Also, please feel free to contact us with questions or comments about our program, or — better yet — to arrange a visit to see our students and staff in action.

Best wishes,

—Thomas Madson, Founding Principal