Enrollment
About OUSD’s Options Process
Since 2005-06, OUSD has used an enrollment system called “Options” for enrollment in its elementary, middle and high school levels. The Options System lets families participate in and influence the process of selecting a school for their children. The school tours, open houses, and options fairs set the stage for Open Enrollment, which lasts from December to January, and provides families a head start in selecting desirable school options.
Students already enrolled at a school do not need to reapply each year if they wish to continue attending the same school.
The Options Process is designed to help families and students choose a school that they believe will meet the particular needs of their children. The Family & Community Office manages the Options Process to give families the ability to select schools and educational options throughout Oakland.
The Options Process does not guarantee that every family will be accepted into its first-choice school. It does, however, significantly expand the social and educational options available for Oakland families, particularly those of modest means.
The Options Process reinforces OUSD’s commitment to offering a diverse portfolio of high-quality schools that expands opportunity for public schools students. 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.