ACE Empower Academy

ACE Empower Academy serves grades 5–8 in the 95116 zip code, one of San Jose's more working-class, predominantly Latino eastside neighborhoods, and families considering it should know that its test scores are among the lowest in the state — something worth weighing carefully when exploring middle school options in the area. That said, charter schools like this one often serve students who face significant outside challenges, and families who are actively engaged and looking for a smaller, community-focused environment may find value in what the school is trying to build. The East San Jose area has a rich cultural identity and is home to tight-knit communities, so families already rooted here will want to visit in person and ask hard questions about academic support and trajectory before enrolling.