Tuition Free
TK–8
Oakland, CA
A Diverse French
Dual-Immersion
Program
We are an inclusive learning community that empowers children to be compassionate global citizens.
Our Mission
The Francophone Charter School of Oakland is a free public charter school serving TK through 8th grade. Our mission is to provide a dual immersion curriculum that develops a diverse community of bilingual, bi-literate students.
Classes are taught in French and English. In the early grades most of the school day is in French; English time grows each year until the day is split evenly in middle school.
No French is needed to start in TK, kindergarten or 1st grade. Students entering 2nd grade or later are assessed for French before placement.
Community Testimonies
“FCSO doesn't just teach my child French — it teaches them to be a global citizen and a bridge-builder.”
“I love that I can talk to my grandparents in French now. School gave me that bridge.”
“This is unlike any school I've taught at. The warmth and sense of community here is real.”
“FCSO gave me the foundation to study abroad at 16 — the bridge was already built.”
The Advantage of Bilingualism
Bilingualism isn’t just about language, it’s a process that opens doors for life. Here’s what the research shows:
Bilingualism strengthens attention, problem-solving, and task-switching. Bilingual students are more focused and sharper thinkers across all subjects.
French is spoken by over 300 million people across 5 continents. It opens opportunities to diplomacy, international business, and cultures understanding.
Bilingual students consistently demonstrate stronger literacy, reading comprehension, and academic performance in native and target languages.
News &
What’s Happening
Welcome to Francophone — 2026–2027 School Year
Academics
OUSD Candidate Forum on Thursday, October 1st
School News
Prospective Families’ Tour
8:45 AM · 2340 Coolidge Ave, Oakland, CA 94601, USA
FCSO school tour
8:45 AM
FCSO school tour
8:45 AM
Minimum Day – Early Dismissal for Students
12:00 AM
Join Our Bilingual
School Life
Our doors are open to all families, French-speaking and non-French-speaking alike. We believe every child deserves a bridge to the world. Learn more about our tuition-free program and how to apply.