Open Meadow HIgh School (Closed 2010)

At Open Meadow we strive to develop connection, capability, and confidence in disconnected youth through relationship-based,quality learning experiences that result in academic, personal, and community success. Strong, healthy communities have pathways to success for everyone. Education is central to creating these pathways. It is the key to disrupting core issues of racism, poverty, and violence that are barriers to success. Open Meadow focuses on young people: endowing them with the skills, power and hope to be agents of change in their communities. Investing in the education of every student motivates and empowers them to create the vibrant, equitable communities we all deserve.

Open Meadow served nearly 1,000 youth in 2011-12 through our four programs:

• Middle School: (60 students, ages 11-15) In addition to tackling the academic subjects they need for high school we prepare our 6th - 8th graders with other skills we know they will need: high expectations of themselves, positive self-concept, respect for others, accountability and good decision-making.
• High School: (125 students, ages 15 - 21) Our accredited high school makes it possible for students to “drop back in” and finish their high school education. Smaller class sizes and mutually accountable relationships help students address the personal, social and emotional challenges that have impeded their success and intense learning experiences help them discover their unique intelligence. We urge them to take an on-campus college class before they graduate and most do.
• Career Services: Works to ensure that all Open Meadow youth reach their long-term career goals by providing access to advanced employment and educational opportunities, focused training, and comprehensive support. Youth from all around Portland are welcome to apply for admission to Career Services programs.
• Step-Up: In collaboration with Roosevelt, Madison, Franklin, and Gresham High Schools, students at very high risk of dropping out of school participate in tutoring, mentoring, leadership development, and summer enrichment programs.