ALTERNATIVE FAMILY EDUCATION

Alternative Family Education is a public school that is part of the Santa Cruz City High school district, located in Santa Cruz, CA with about 128 students offering grade levels from Kindergarten to 12th Grade. With about 4 teachers, Alternative Family Education has a student/teacher ratio of about 32:1. The national average for public schools is about 15:1. A lower student/teacher ratio is a key factor that determines how much a teacher can devote his/her time to each individual student thus improving, or reducing (in the event of a higher student/teacher ratio) the attention each student is given for their educational needs.

Alternative Family Education (AFE) is a unique, parent-cooperative K-12 program located in Santa Cruz, California, that operates as an alternative to the traditional classroom setting. Designed for families who prefer a home-based or individualized approach to learning, the program emphasizes a partnership between parents, students, and credentialed teachers. Instead of following a rigid, uniform curriculum, AFE allows families to personalize their educational plans, focusing on the specific interests, learning styles, and developmental needs of each child.

The school is characterized by its highly flexible, "resource center" model, where families have access to professional guidance, academic support, and a community of like-minded peers. While the program promotes significant autonomy, it remains rooted in state educational standards, ensuring that students receive a comprehensive foundation in core subjects. By blending the structure of the Santa Cruz City Schools district with the freedom of homeschooling, AFE fosters a collaborative environment that encourages self-directed learning, intellectual curiosity, and strong family involvement.

For more information, contact Alternative Family Education at (831) 429-3898 or visit the school personally to speak with a faculty or administrative member about any specific questions you may have.