Education Meets Real-World Practice at ECHS
The mission of Environmental Charter High School is to inspire students
to discover their own sense of purpose, to equip all students with the
knowledge and skills to graduate from college, and to empower them to
become quality stewards of their community and world.
On top of our challenging classroom programs, students are required to apply concepts and skills gained in class to problem-solve local civic and environmental issues, and take action to make a measurable impact. Students also participate in outdoor educational challenges to develop self-confidence and leadership skills.
The ECHS Story: A Community in Need Planted a Seed
ECHS was formed in 1999 by a group of parents, educators, businesses and non-profits to meet the educational challenge in the community of Lawndale.
Inspiring Results
Since receiving its California Charter in 2000, ECHS has become an award-winning institution. We are delivering dramatically improved academic results and enriching the lives of hundreds of young people - of whom nearly 80% are financially disadvantaged.
Best Practices Cultivated by Design From The Ground Up
- ECHS is a small community with 28 teachers, an average class size of 25 students, and enrollment of about 450 students.
- 97% of our graduates exceed the admission requirements of UC/California State University schools.
- We require that all students apply and be admitted to a 4-year university in order to graduate.
- ECHS extends learning beyond the classroom walls. Students complete community service, participate in service learning projects, attend outdoor education field trips, and are encouraged to take internships.
- ECHS builds partnerships with industry and the community. These partnerships help enhance educational opportunities for students.
Awards and Recognition for Quality and Innovative Practices:
- Ranked in top 3% of Public High Schools by U.S. News & World Report
- EPA Environmental Award
- California Department of Education Service-Learning Award
- 2010 Race to Top Commencement Challenge Finalist to have President Obama give commencement address
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Fast Facts:
- Founded in 2000
- ECHS is a free public charter school that operates independent of a traditional school district.
- Chartered by the Lawndale Elementary School District to serve surrounding communities.
- Open to students throughout LA County
- Student to Teacher ratio = 15 to 1. Class size average of 25
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) accredited in 2006 for the maximum six years.
- Title One Award for Academic Excellence.
- California Charter School Association (CSA) certified.
- 20% of teachers are National Board certified.
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