Open School

Mission

The mission of Open School, Inc. is to empower students who have been under-served and under-estimated. We support students on their journey to break limiting beliefs, navigate systemic oppression, and build their life goals. Our programs are built on three pillars of advocacy, equity, and academics.

Bottom Line for Portland

Oregon trails the nation in terms of graduation rates, particularly for BIPOC and lower-income students.  Our BIPOC-led, relationship-based programs create academic environments where students feel seen, heard, and capable. This increases graduation rates and supports students in building future goals. Join us in the movement for equitable education!

Quote

“I am here today because I don’t feel judged at school…When I first came to Open School East, I wasn't comfortable being myself and didn’t believe I could graduate. This Saturday, I will show up as myself to graduation.” -Alex, He/Him, Open School East Graduate

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

At Open School, we work toward eliminating race and income inequality as predictors of student achievement and success in community, education, and career. While other students in Oregon attend schools where 10% of teachers and administrators are BIPOC, 75% of our program staff are BIPOC and 75% of our student population is BIPOC. We create identity-affirming environments that meet students of all identities and learning styles where they are.

Incentives

The first 50 donors who donate $20 or more, receive a $20 gift card to Altar.

Donors who give $300 or more get a six month subscription to Altar's Apothecary Discovery Box. 

Business Partner(s)

Altar is a beautifully curated clothing and retail store owned by Open School East's teacher, Cassie Ridgway! Their clothing brand is proudly made in America using deadstock materials and serves size gradations from size small to 6XL. 

https://www.altarpdx.com/