About Us » FAQs


Why Camino Nuevo Charter Academy?

No two kids learn the same way, and every family and community deserves high-quality public education. That’s why, in 1999, the leaders of Pueblo Nuevo Development and residents of the MacArthur Park community got together and created Camino Nuevo Charter Academy, a school built on the belief that all children should have the chance to go to a great school that puts their needs first, regardless of zip code, income, or ability level. Today, eight Camino Nuevo schools are educating 3,600 students from early childhood through high school. 

Are CNCA schools public schools?

Yes. Camino Nuevo schools are public, free, and open to all students, and do not have admission requirements or entrance exams. When demand exceeds the space available, the school holds a random, blind lottery to determine which students are admitted.

What makes Camino Nuevo schools different from other public schools?

We know “one size fits all” doesn’t work when it comes to education. Camino Nuevo schools stand out for providing a full range of support services and delivering an education tailored to the specific needs and demands of the neighborhoods they serve. Students have access to college preparatory classes, mental health services, and enrichment programs including art, music, and dance. When students graduate, they are college-ready, college-bound.

How are Camino Nuevo schools held accountable?

Charter schools provide a high-quality education option for public school students, upholding high standards that meet and often exceed district and state metrics. Every family at a Camino Nuevo school made a choice to be there — and will choose another public school if our schools are not meeting those families’ needs. Camino Nuevo schools are also accountable to state and federal public education laws and undergo extensive oversight by the Los Angeles Unified School District.

How are Camino Nuevo schools funded and managed?

Camino Nuevo schools are open to all students and do not charge tuition. They are funded through federal, state, and local dollars. But these funds are not enough to prepare students for college and the jobs of tomorrow. Through the Pueblo Nuevo Education and Development Group, Camino Nuevo closes the funding gap. Pueblo Nuevo serves as a fundraising and capacity-building arm for Camino Nuevo. It receives charitable donations from foundations and individuals, which in turn help the schools provide early childhood education, enrichment opportunities, mental health services, scholarships, and alumni support.

How is Camino Nuevo doing at preparing students for success?

Camino Nuevo schools put students first, educating them in a culturally relevant, academically rigorous environment. The schools combine the key ingredients for an excellent public education — great teachers, motivated students, and involved parents — and focus on preparing students for success in college, careers, and life. As a result, Camino Nuevo schools are graduating more students and send more kids to college than other public schools with similar student demographics. Overall, 90 percent of Camino Nuevo students who start as freshmen graduate high school and 70 percent of seniors are accepted to four-year colleges. 

How are Camino Nuevo schools and other public charter schools helping California’s public school system?

Charter schools help strengthen California’s public school system by offering more kids an opportunity for a great public education at schools that put their needs first. Public education is the backbone of the American dream — and charter public schools like Camino Nuevo help give every student the opportunity to grow and achieve.

How can I get involved in supporting the work of Camino Nuevo schools? 

There are many ways to support our schools, including giving and volunteering. Visit www.caminonuevo.org to learn more about our schools and reach out to the Advancement Team to start a conversation and find specific opportunities to partner with us.