Camarillo Academy of Progressive Education

Camarillo Academy of Progressive Education (CAPE) is a standout K-12 alternative public school district of its own in Camarillo, CA, serving 590 students with a progressive educational model that achieves exceptional academic results.

The school's performance is remarkable, with student proficiency rates in English, Math, and Science consistently 35 to 50 percentage points higher than the California state average. This academic excellence is matched by outstanding student engagement, evidenced by a chronic absenteeism rate of just 5.4%, which is about one-third of the state average. Notably, CAPE achieves these top-tier results while spending less per student ($11,168) than many similar alternative schools in the region, demonstrating highly efficient use of resources.

When compared to nearby schools with similar alternative missions, CAPE's success is particularly striking. For example, Peak Prep Pleasant Valley, located less than two miles away, has proficiency rates less than half of CAPE's. This demonstrates that CAPE's progressive approach is a powerful model for delivering high achievement, not just an alternative to traditional schooling. The school serves as a compelling example of how an alternative educational philosophy can lead to superior academic outcomes and student engagement.