Several prominent San Jose leaders are stepping in to support a local charter school that could be forced to shut down over teacher credentialing problems.

Escuela Popular — which primarily serves immigrant families through a dual-language K–8 program and adult education classes — is at risk after the East Side Union High School District issued a notice of violation. The district says the school failed to have credentialed teachers in all classrooms and is now considering revoking its charter, a move that would effectively close the school.

On Monday, school staff and supporters gathered alongside city officials to push for a solution that would keep the campus open.

“A decision like this would strip vital public infrastructure from a community already fighting for equity and dignity,” said San Jose Councilmember Peter Ortiz. “Not on my watch.”

The district gave Escuela Popular until Monday to submit a sufficient plan addressing the problem. Beyond ensuring all teachers are properly credentialed, the superintendent said the school must also overhaul its operational, business, and governance practices to improve transparency. The district will maintain its legally required oversight in the meantime.

Escuela Popular leaders say they will meet the deadline.
“We’ve asked repeatedly to meet with the district before today to make sure our response meets their expectations,” said CEO Patricia Reguerin. “The district has not agreed to meet with us.”