Every student brings unique strengths, challenges, and goals to the classroom. For our English Learners (ELs), having the right support system can make all the difference—not just in mastering language skills, but in building the confidence to succeed across all academic subjects. That’s where our English Language Development (ELD) team comes in. Today, we’re spotlighting […]
“Own Your Different” Campaign Challenges the Traditional High School Model and Celebrates Student Identity
LOS ANGELES, CA — August 4, 2025 — Options For Youth (OFY), a tuition-free public charter school, proudly announces the launch of its new campaign, “Own Your Different”, aimed at celebrating student individuality and breaking the mold of traditional education. For over 35 years, Options For Youth has been at the forefront of reimagining high […]
Options For Youth Public Charter School Staff Member Inspires Students Through ‘Quiet Leadership
Jose Gonzalez (front) holding his many certificates of award at the Unsung Heroes Breakfast, an event which honors local residents going above and beyond in the West Covina community. West Covina, California (June 5th, 2025) – Options For Youth (OFY) Public Charter Schools are known for a unique approach to high school programming, bringing teachers and […]
How OFY’s Career Technical Education (CTE) Programs Prepare Students for the Real World
At Options For Youth (OFY), we believe students thrive when learning connects to their interests and future goals. That’s why we offer Career Technical Education (CTE) pathways—designed to give students the practical skills, hands-on experience, and confidence they need to succeed after high school. Whether your student dreams of working in technology, education, healthcare, or […]
How to Reclaim Your Focus this Spring
As spring rolls in, so does a mix of sunshine and… stress. If you’re feeling burnt out, distracted, or just plain tired—you’re not alone. Many students hit a wall this time of year. But here’s the good news: it’s not too late to reset. Whether you’re falling behind in classes, losing interest, or just need […]
OFY Alumna and Proud Parent of 4 Graduates, Shares How OFY Transformed Her Family’s Educational Journey
”OFY has transformed my family’s educational journey. The teachers are warm, and they truly care about my children emotionally and academically.” – Eleasah Todd, OFY Alumna and Parent of Four OFY Students Eleasah Todd’s connection with Options For Youth (OFY) is deeply personal. As both an alumna and the proud parent of four OFY graduates, […]
Erick Machuka – Overcoming the Odds with Options For Youth
Erick Machuka’s story is a powerful example of how a supportive educational environment can help students overcome even the most difficult circumstances. Growing up, Erick faced instability at home and at school. “As a child, I would be moving house to house, going from school to school. I didn’t always have food at home or […]
What is Flexible Education?
Education isn’t one-size-fits-all. Every student has unique needs, goals, and challenges, which is why traditional school models don’t always work for everyone. That’s where flexible education comes in. It adapts to students’ individual circumstances, allowing them to take control of their learning journey. For high school students—especially those balancing jobs, family responsibilities, or other commitments—flexible […]
A Safe Space for All LGBTQ+ Students
For every student and parent, school should feel like a safe place to learn, grow, and succeed. Unfortunately, LGBTQ+ students are more likely to experience bullying and harassment and face higher rates of mental health challenges like anxiety and depression due, in part, to discrimination, lack of support, and bullying. According to a 2021 National […]
Don’t Let Ninth Grade Shock Happen to You
The summer before ninth grade is both an exciting and daunting time for students. Soon they will be entering a new school, taking more advanced coursework, and will be held responsible for keeping up grades for college. It certainly sounds like a time that they should be relaxing before these new responsibilities take hold! However, summer vacation, rather than allowing students to rest and mentally prepare for the next year can contribute to the sudden and unpredicted decline in many students’ academic performance (hitting students from disadvantaged backgrounds the hardest) known as “ninth grade shock.”
