Alpha: Jose Hernandez

Alpha: Jose Hernandez serves the 95122 zip code, one of San Jose's most working-class and predominantly Latino neighborhoods in the East Side, where families are deeply rooted in community but often face an uphill climb when it comes to academic resources. Despite its charter status and namesake honoring astronaut José Hernández — a powerful symbol of what's possible — the school's test scores sit at the very bottom of California's rankings, and families weighing their options here should go in with clear eyes and plenty of questions. Families who are engaged and proactive may find the school's mission meaningful, but it's worth exploring all available options in the district, including other charters and magnet programs in the area.