View Article from Vallejo Times-Herald 

As National School Choice Week — Jan. 26-Feb. 1 — approaches, we have an incredible opportunity to reflect on the importance of education that meets the unique needs of every child. This nationwide celebration, with tens of thousands of events across the country, underscores the power of school choice to inspire, challenge, and support students on their educational journeys.

Here in Vallejo, families are fortunate to have access to a range of educational options, including traditional public schools, public charter schools, magnet schools, private schools, online learning, and homeschooling. These diverse choices ensure that parents can select the learning environment that best fits their child’s needs and aspirations.

Why is school choice so vital? Because every child deserves an effective, engaging, and motivating education. Each student has unique talents, interests, and challenges, and a one-size-fits-all approach to education often falls short. School choice empowers Vallejo parents to find the right fit, ensuring that their children can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

At Griffin Technology Academies (GTA), we are proud to play a significant role in Vallejo’s school choice landscape. Our four tuition-free public charter schools — Mare Island Technology Academy Middle and High Schools and Griffin Academy Middle and High Schools — offer innovative, technology-driven education to prepare students for college, careers, and life.

GTA is committed to creating safe, inclusive, and inspiring learning environments for all students. We understand that positive learning environment is a top priority for families, and we have implemented robust measures to ensure that every child feels secure and supported on our campuses. We strive to provide students with the foundation they need to succeed both inside and outside the classroom.

What sets GTA apart is our relentless focus on academic achievement paired with a commitment to social-emotional well-being. Our small class sizes allow teachers to provide personalized attention, while our hands-on, science and technology-driven curriculum equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary for today’s fast-changing world. At GTA, we believe education should not only teach but also inspire—and we work every day to spark curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking in our students.

This National School Choice Week, we invite Vallejo families to explore what makes GTA unique. Our schools are designed to serve the diverse needs of our community, providing pathways to success for every student. Whether your child thrives in a tech-focused environment, benefits from small class sizes, or seeks a school that prioritizes their emotional well-being, GTA offers a safe, high-quality option.

Our initial enrollment period for the 2025-2026 academic year ends soon — at the end of January. There’s still time to register your child and join a community that values academic excellence, innovation, and student success. Visit gtaschools.org/ to learn more, schedule a campus tour, or speak with one of our enrollment specialists.

National School Choice Week is about celebrating the power of options in education and the potential they unlock in every child. Take this opportunity to explore how GTA can make a difference for your family. Your child’s future starts here!

— Nick Driver/Superintendent, Griffin Technology Academies