Sharon Olken

In 1998, a group of San Francisco parents had the dream of creating a school that would be a gateway to college for all students regardless of race, income, or learning style. They founded Gateway High School, a college preparatory, public charter school in San Francisco focused on serving an academically disadvantaged student population. Since then, more than 96% of Gateway graduates have gone on to college – more than double the statewide average. Gateway students reflect the diversity of San Francisco: • 75% are students of color • 25% of our students have a diagnosed learning disability • 50% fall below the poverty line and qualify for free lunch • 40% are first-generation college bound In 2011, we expanded our model with the addition of Gateway Middle School to leverage our impact and reach students in the formative middle grades. Today, close to 800 students attend Gateway Public Schools, and more than 1,200 of our students have matriculated to college. By serving as a model school organization, we hope to demonstrate that public education can and does work for diverse learners, share best practices, and serve as a catalyst for change within the public sphere.