Pacific Palisades : Charter School Proposal

A consortium of schools known as the Palisades Education Complex has applied for unorthodox group status as a charter school under new state legislation. Four schools--Palisades High and Palisades, Canyon and Marquez elementary schools--would be exempt from most state education codes and district requirements, but remain fiscally tied to the Los Angeles Unified School District.

Current students, including those who are bused from other areas, would be encouraged to continue in the quasi-independent Complex, and other schools in the area, including Paul Revere Middle School, could join later.

A hearing on the umbrella application will take place within 30 days, with final determination within 60 days.

Palisades High Principal Merle Price said graduation requirements will be expanded to include community service, internships in “the real world,” and increased parental involvement in student discipline guidelines. The Complex would offer independent study and more course options, be able to enroll students from anywhere in the city and select its own staff.