Oakland International High

Oakland International High School (OIHS) is a specialized public high school in the Oakland Unified School District dedicated exclusively to serving recently arrived immigrants and refugees. Unlike traditional comprehensive high schools, OIHS is designed to support students who are English Language Learners, often with limited or interrupted formal schooling in their home countries. The school operates on a unique model that integrates intensive English language acquisition with rigorous academic content, providing a safe, culturally responsive environment that eases the transition into the American educational system.

The school’s philosophy centers on the belief that a student's linguistic and cultural background is an asset rather than a barrier to success. To achieve this, OIHS utilizes a collaborative teaching approach, heterogeneous grouping, and project-based learning to ensure that students can access the curriculum while developing their proficiency in English. Beyond academics, the school provides comprehensive wrap-around services—including counseling, legal resources, and health support—to address the social and emotional needs of newcomer families, positioning itself as a vital community hub for Oakland’s diverse immigrant population.