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Enrollment in OUSD Schools: The Options Process (School Choice)

All parents want their children to attend schools where they will thrive, both academically and personally. For each family, though, that environment may be quite different. To allow you to find the right fit for your child, Oakland Unified allows any student to apply to any school in the District. The goal of this open enrollment practice—called the School Options Program—is to ensure all families have equitable access to high-performing schools across the city.

The Options Process does not guarantee that every family will be accepted into its first-choice school. It does, however, significantly expand the educational options available for all Oakland families. By increasing access to a range of academic programs, many of which would otherwise be out-of-reach for disadvantaged students, the Options Process serves the District goals of achievement, equity, and accountability
 
WE'VE MOVED!
Our offices have moved to 746 Grand Avenue (at the Lakeview School Campus, across from the Grand Lake Theatre). All enrollment services for preschool and kindergarten through the 12th grade will be provided at the new 746 Grand Avenue location.

Click here for directions to our new location.
 
Call (510) 273-1600 for updates and more information. We are open from 8:00am to 2:00pm.


How It Works
 
Under the School Options open enrollment program, all entering kindergarten, middle, and high-school students must submit an application to attend a school in the fall, even if it’s the school in their neighborhood. The open enrollment period begins in December and usually ends in mid-January (this year it will be December 3 through January 18). Requests for transfer to other OUSD schools in the fall are also accepted during the open enrollment period. Students already enrolled at a school do not need to reapply each year to continue attending there.
 
How It Works for 5th and 8th Grade students currently attending an OUSD School
 
If your child is currently attending a 5th or 8th grade class at an OUSD school you will receive a pre-printed application at the school site. Fill out and submit the applications during the same window (December 3, 2012-January 18, 2013). Document any changes of address in the form and make sure your phone numbers listed are up to date. You must turn this pre-printed application at your school site. 


Options Enrollment Timeline

Options timeline

The timeline above illustrates the different phases of the enrollment process happening throughout the year. Each year, specific dates are set for each step. The Options Enrollment window for the 2013-14 school year will begin on December 3, 2012 and close on January 18, 2013.


Key Months
  • August: Middle and high school registration
  • December-January: Open enrollment
  • March: Notification of new school assignments by mail
  • April-May: Kindergarten registration at school sites and secondary student assignment confirmation


What if I missed the Enrollment Window?

Families who miss the window for submitting an on-time application will be able to apply in person at the Student Assignment Office (746 Grand Avenue).  The same application materials are required for later applications, and students will be placed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Late applicants are eligible for any seats that remain available at schools.


Where to Go for More Information

Please use the links on the left side of the screen to access more information about how to enroll in an OUSD school, including forms, what to consider when choosing a school, transfers, registration, and information about what documentation you will need to provide.

The Student Assignment Center can help you through the entire enrollment process, whether your child is brand new to OUSD; returning to OUSD from a charter school, private school, or school in another city; or transitioning from another OUSD school. This office is at 746 Grand Avenue. Placement counselors are available from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday, or by appointment. Language testing for students whose primary language is not English is also provided.

For more information or to make an appointment, contact the office at 273-1600 or email enroll@ousd.k12.ca.us.


 
Last Modified on June 7, 2013