YouthBuild Charter School of California

Program Overview

YouthBuild Charter School of California (YCSC) is a free accredited high school serving young people ages 16-24+ who previously left or were pushed out of the traditional school system without a diploma. We partner with local YouthBuild programs to provide our students with job training, counseling, leadership development, college and career readiness, and the opportunity to finish their credits and complete their high school diploma. YouthBuild Charter School offers both classroom based and independent studies options at 16 campuses in Los Angeles, Fresno, Riverside, San Bernardino, and San Diego Counties.

Instead of completing packets or taking tests to earn credits (like at many continuation schools and GED prep programs), YouthBuild Charter's hands-on, project-based learning environment provides students with a more engaging education option. Our small class sizes and close-knit family environment allow for students to get more one-on-one attention from their teachers and counselors. Students are empowered to take what they learn in the classroom into their communities to promote social justice through volunteerism and advocacy. At the end of each trimester, YCSC students work together with their teachers to create a community action project which addresses an issue in their community and showcases what they've learned in their classes. Our curriculum prepares students for college, trade school, careers, and for leadership in their communities. We have had over 6,500 high school graduates since we opened in 2008.

In addition to offering our project-based high school diploma program, YouthBuild Charter also offers free job training in a variety of fields, including culinary arts and hospitality, construction, film and recording arts, and CAMT (certified apartment maintenance technician).

While most of our students fall between the ages of 16-24, our campuses will often enroll students up to age 29 (or older). A complete list of our campuses can be found here.

Cost Info

Student and Volunteer Success Stories

"I came to YouthBuild Charter with little to no credits. When I was younger, I never really attended school due to family and personal issues. This was my last chance. I've spent the last three years here and it has become my second home. I've learned many things, not just from teachers but from counselors as well. From how to make a resumé, to catching up on my basic math skills. I worked on my communication skills and prepared myself for post secondary education. This place has been and always will be a big part of my life. I always knew when I came here I was preparing myself for my future-- a future I would build on my own depending on the actions I choose to make. YouthBuild, in my personal opinion, has prepared me in more ways than one. I wake up every morning feeling accomplished knowing that I am getting somewhere and that I will be able to do what no one in my family could accomplish. It's never too late. Although I had a pretty bad start, I am more confident than ever I will achieve all the goals I have set. I am proud to be able to set an example for my younger siblings because we were not given the best start. Although there have been many challenges and struggles, it has changed me for the better. YouthBuild Charter was my stepping stone. Without this program in general, I don't think I would be the person I am today, and I say that proudly. I am stronger and more prepared than ever." - Alma M., Fresno site at the Fresno EOC LCC, Class of 2019