The school offers a "half high school and half college" model where students take high school courses in a cohort while also being enrolled as college students at Foothill College.
A Different Atmosphere: It is designed for students seeking a different environment from a traditional high school, specifically those who desire more flexibility, responsibility, and are very mature.
"Enjoy the Journey of Learning": The school's motto emphasizes joy and intellectual exploration.
Academic and Career Advantages
Access to Top Institutions: PAMC is a partnership between the #1 best school district in California (PAUSD) and Foothill College, which is ranked as the #1 community college in the United States.
Enhanced Transfer Rates: PAMC graduates who continue at Foothill College have significantly higher acceptance rates to top universities like UCLA compared to direct high school applicants. For example, Foothill TAP honors students had a 67% acceptance rate to UCLA compared to 9% for traditional high school applicants.
Diverse Course Options: Students have access to almost the full college course catalog. PAMC students take courses ranging from Calculus and Cybersecurity to Theater and Psychology.
College Readiness: The program helps ease the transition between high school and college, providing support for navigating college systems and gaining career experience through internships and volunteering.
Additional Benefits
Supporting Students: Access to college for first-generation students, or students who may have a financial barrier to college
Zero Cost: All Foothill College courses, textbooks, and class supplies are provided to students for free.
Comprehensive Support: Students receive support from both PAMC (academic counseling, wellness services, and special education management) and Foothill College (tutoring, 60+ campus clubs, and a Disability Resource Center).
Essential Services: PAUSD provides free daily lunch on campus and bus transportation to and from East Palo Alto, Gunn, and Paly.
Extracurricular Access: PAMC students can still participate in high school sports at Gunn and Paly High Schools while joining clubs through Foothill College.
