Fontana, California — A new school in Southern California is giving students an experience that may feel surprisingly familiar to fans of the “Harry Potter” series. Oak Grove Preparatory Academy has opened its doors with a unique house system, specialized career programs and a modern indoor campus designed to create a different kind of learning environment.
The new Fontana school held its official ribbon-cutting ceremony on Aug. 4, giving staff, students, families, community members and local officials a first look at the campus.
New School Brings Six-House System to Fontana
One of the most distinctive features of Oak Grove Preparatory Academy is its six-house system.
Rather than simply being divided into traditional classes, students are assigned to one of six houses that become part of their school identity. The houses are named Altruismo, Isibindi, Rêveur, Nukumori, Onraka and Protos.
Students can earn points for achievements such as good attendance, academic performance, positive behavior and involvement in school activities.
The system has drawn comparisons to the house structure featured in Harry Potter, although school officials say the idea is intended to create a stronger sense of community and belonging.
Students reportedly receive their house assignment through a spinning wheel, with the result randomly determining which house they join.
Houses Focus on Character and Community
According to school officials, each house represents a particular character trait and draws inspiration from a different country.
For example, Altruismo represents givers and is inspired by Brazil, while Rêveur represents dreamers and traces its inspiration to France.
The house concept was reportedly inspired by the Ron Clark Academy in Atlanta, which uses a similar approach to build relationships and school spirit.
Oak Grove Assistant Principal Felix Alvarado said the system can help students overcome the nervousness that often comes with starting at a new school.
Once students become part of a house, he explained, they have a built-in group of peers, teachers and staff they can rely on.
Modern Campus Designed Around Learning
The school itself is an indoor campus featuring specialized spaces for different types of learning.
Facilities include science and technology labs, media production studios, a graphic design studio and a multipurpose room, along with several outdoor learning areas.
The project was reportedly 10 years in the making, with construction taking approximately 34 months.
Unlike other Fontana schools, Oak Grove will also operate on a seven-period schedule rather than six periods, giving students additional time to explore specialized coursework.
Students Can Explore AI, Coding and Cybersecurity
Oak Grove’s curriculum is designed to combine traditional education with career-focused opportunities.
Students can participate in career technical education programs involving cybersecurity, coding and the ethical use of artificial intelligence.
The school also plans to introduce additional programs involving performing arts and video production.
Younger students will have the opportunity to explore different career pathways before committing to a specific program. Seventh- and eighth-graders can use exploratory CTE courses to learn about their options, while an additional period in the schedule could allow students to participate in more than one pathway.
College Classes Could Start Early
The school is also giving students an opportunity to begin earning college-level experience earlier than they might at a traditional high school.
Through a partnership with Chaffey College, students can take college classes while still enrolled at Oak Grove.
The academy opened this year serving grades 6 through 9. Its long-term plan is to expand until it serves grades 7 through 12, with grade 6 eventually being phased out as new grades are added.
Students Already Excited About the New Chapter
For students arriving at a brand-new school, there is also the opportunity to help shape its traditions from the beginning.
Ninth-grader Madison Baragan described Oak Grove as the beginning of a new chapter in her life and said she felt privileged to attend a completely new campus where she could meet new friends and help build a new community.
With its house competitions, career-focused programs and modern facilities, Oak Grove Preparatory Academy is starting its first school year with an approach that aims to make students feel connected while preparing them for future academic and career opportunities.
What do you think about Oak Grove’s Harry Potter-like house system? Would you have enjoyed attending a school where you could compete with your house throughout the year? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
