Retired About Page

students pose in front of mural

What is Gateway High School?

Gateway High School is a college preparatory, public charter school in San Francisco.

Diversity that mirrors the larger community

Founded in 1998 on the paired principles that all students can learn at high levels and that all students learn differently, we are a college gateway for students regardless of race, income, or learning style. Our high school serves economically, racially, ethnically, and intellectually diverse high school students from the San Francisco community and the surrounding Bay Area.  By attending a school that fully embraces the diversity of the Bay Area, Gateway students appreciate what they have in common and value what they learn from one another. Our values of personal integrity, responsibility, and respect inspire students to contribute to their communities for a lifetime.

An intentionally small learning environment

With 480 students and a 24:1 student-teacher ratio, we have an intentionally small community where students are known well. Our rigorous academic program identifies and supports the individual talents and strengths of our students.  Students receive personalized instruction from highly trained teachers, are challenged at their level, and encouraged to reach their potential.

Our teachers are committed to lifelong learning and success

Our teachers are passionate about learning. They are devoted to personal and professional growth and share that passion with their students and the larger community. By working with teachers committed to our mission, our students acquire the skills, habits, and knowledge necessary for academic and personal success in college and in adult life.

Support for college admissions and beyond

Supported by an extraordinary team of educators, students at Gateway take a rigorous college preparatory course load that exceeds entrance requirements for public universities and private colleges in California and across the country. Last year, 99% of our graduating seniors went on to college. Throughout high school, students receive consistent college counseling and advising that helps identify colleges that are a good fit. This includes free SAT preparation and step-by-step guidance through the college application process.

Encouraging students to step up, do right, and dream big

“Step up” means being a self-advocate and working hard every day. “Do right” means being a good community member, respecting and celebrating the diversity in your community, and taking pride in your school campus. “Dream big” means believing in yourself and aiming high for your education and personal goals in high school and beyond.

Get to know us and see if we are right for you

San Francisco has many strong high schools to consider. As you begin to explore Gateway, we encourage you to reflect on the type of high school experience you seek and, equally important, to think about your goals and dreams for the future. Get to know us better by joining us at one of our enrollment events. Our teachers, administrators, parents, and students truly make Gateway one of a kind.

Our Mission

Gateway High School is a model, college preparatory charter school committed to academic excellence through personalized, student-­‐centered learning. Gateway combines a rigorous academic program with an approach where the individual talents and strengths of its students are identified and supported. Working with teachers committed to our mission, Gateway students will acquire the skills, habits, and knowledge necessary for academic and personal success in college and in adult life.

Gateway High School Graduates will be:

  • Self-Advocates who share responsibility for their learning
  • Models of Integrity who contribute to an ethical community
  • Community Advocates who create positive change for their communities
  • Respectful of Differences while celebrating the strength in diversity and what we have in common
  • Critical and Creative Thinkers who possess the skills and content necessary for lifelong learning

A Day in the Life at Gateway High School

Read about our expectations, schedule and special programs. Get a first-hand perspective by visiting our school and attending our enrollment events.

What are the expectations at a college preparatory school?

Our goal is for all students to attend college after graduating from Gateway. By choosing to enroll, you are committing to this goal as well. We help you prepare for college success and we expect that you do your part as well. This means doing your homework every day; coming to school ready to learn and paying attention in class; it means asking for help and going to tutoring when you need it; it means meeting all behavioral and attendance expectations.

What are the school hours?

Gateway follows a block schedule. On Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, school starts at 8:15 a.m. and ends at 3:35 p.m. On Wednesday, school starts at 8:15 a.m. and ends at 2:30 p.m. On Friday, school starts at 9:05 a.m. and ends at 3:35 p.m.

Does Gateway provide tutoring?

Yes, students are encouraged to participate in our free academic tutoring program. Learn more about the Gateway Tutoring Program.

How do I learn more about Gateway?

Explore the rest of our website or attend one of our enrollment events
 

How do I apply to Gateway?

You must submit a Gateway application. If you are an 8th grader, you must complete the 9th Grade Lottery Application. Please review the 9th grade lottery applicant FAQs. If you are not applying for the 9th grade lottery, you must complete a Wait Pool Application. Please review our wait pool applicant FAQs.
 

What is a charter school?

A charter school is a tuition-free public school that operates independently from local school districts. As schools of choice, all charter schools are open to any student who wants to apply, regardless of where he or she lives within the state. For more information, visit our "What is a Charter School?" page.