Sonoma County Office of Education

Community Schools

Community Schools

Community Schools provide a different kind of learning environment for students who are experiencing difficulties in a traditional school setting or who are exhibiting negative behavior patterns in school or the community. Students may range in age from 12 to 18 years old and a multiple-grade, multiple-subject curriculum is taught.

2017 graduates walk in during the commencement ceremonyA graduate receives her diploma from the county superintendent and assistant superintendentA 2017 graduate hugs her young childA 2017 graduate poses with his child

There are two Community Schools in Sonoma County: Amarosa Academy in Santa Rosa and Headwaters Academy in Petaluma. Many of the students enrolled in these schools have been expelled from their district school, identified as habitually truant, or placed on probation by the juvenile court. The emphasis of the program is to reestablish the educational direction of students by providing a learning environment that meets their needs. Counseling and other support services are provided by public and community agencies.

Adera Teen Parent Program

The Adera Teen Parent Program is a unique program option that provides education and support services to help pregnant and parenting students continue their education. Located at Amarosa Academy in Santa Rosa, the program provides childcare and related services to assist teen parents in graduating from high school.

See also:
Parent-Student Resources
Schools & Faculty

Leilan, Student
"I like Amarosa because there's a much smaller student count and so teachers can be one-on-one with you. They can actually help you and be one-on-one with you while the class is doing something else. I feel like that's a huge game-changer." - Leilan, Student