Finally, a school that fits.

Small classes; one-on-one counseling;
safe, supportive learning environment; parent support.

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The Holden Promise

Non-traditional learners thrive at Holden High School!

LGBTQ+ and neurodiverse students feel respected and supported in our community.

Holden provides a tailored education for students struggling with learning, mental health, and executive functioning challenges. Students who have experienced previous academic failure, school refusal, and bullying reignite their love for learning at Holden High.

Our location is BART walkable, allowing for students to commute from all over the Bay Area. Most of our students live in Contra Costa and Alameda County.

LIFE SKILLS

ACADEMIC & PERSONAL CONFIDENCE

Holden students leave our program with a post-graduation plan, as well as the skills and resources to succeed.
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1-ON-1 COUNSELING

COUNSELING

Students meet weekly for an hour of support with a Marriage Family Therapist or associate therapist, supervised by Holden’s licensed Clinical Director.
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PARENT SUPPORT

PARENT SUPPORT GROUP

Holden strengthens family relationships through support services that empower parents and encourage healthy family relationships.​
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Ari, a Holden student

The Holden Difference

Students who thrive at Holden:

  • Yearn for a flexible learning environment
  • Desire respectful relationships with teacher and peers
  • Pursue learning inside and outside of class
  • Flourish in a close-knit school setting
  • May struggle with mild to moderate learning differences
  • May have experienced social emotional challenges

Why Students Love Holden!

changing lives since 1969

"Holden has helped me feel confident enough to open up and share my ideas and opinions. I plan to enroll in community college to study aviation and graphic design."
Holden sweatshirt
CoreyHolden Graduate
"The Transition Counselors at Holden have helped me organize my path to college. It's been very productive. This fall I'll attend Sacramento Community College."
Jack
JackHolden Graduate
"Holden supports but doesn't coddle. It pushes me to be my best. I have to earn my privileges through things like community service and clean-up crew that prepare me for life outside of school."
Ari
AriHolden Graduate
"Graduating from Holden is bitter-sweet. I'll miss the close-knit feeling of being in such a small community. I'm excited to start at Prescott College to study Wilderness Leadership."
Holden sweatshirt
ZaylaHolden Graduate
"My favorite Holden memory was our school field trip to Kennedy Park. After my gap year, I'll attend the College of Alameda and take a mechanics class."
sweathshirt
WalterHolden Graduate
"I didn't do well in traditional schools because my ADHD means I learn differently. Holden gave me lots of support to pursue my passion for engineering and science."
Gabe
GabeHolden Graduate
"I am forever grateful. This school not only saved my life, but gave me a safe place to explore, grow, and heal."


Krystal
KrystalHolden Graduate
"Holden is a real community. Everyone belongs. I love the freedom I have to express myself. I feel respected here."


Kayla
KaylaHolden Graduate
"Before Holden, I struggled in crowded public school classrooms with teachers who could not support a student with ADHD. I've grown so much at Holden"

Carlo
CarloHolden Alumnus
"Holden gave me a better understanding of myself and how I affect the world around me. It gave me direction, and guided my creativity"

Elliot "Oden"
Elliot "Oden"Holden Graduate
"I am so grateful to work in a school with a collaborative staff that truly respects and supports each individual student."


Abby
AbbyHolden Director
"Holden helped me learn to really enjoy life and express my feelings. Holden helped me through a lot of dark times and I'm forever thankful."

Beatrice
BeatriceHolden Graduate
“I have matured in ways that wouldn’t have been possible without the community at Holden.”


Brandon
BrandonHolden Graduate
"Holden is a community. We check in with each other, teach and learn from one another, and help each other succeed. I love working here!"

Libby
LibbyHolden Teacher
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HOLDEN HIGH SCHOOL

  • 925-254-0199
  • 925-254-6130
  • 10 IRWIN WAY, ORINDA, CA 94563
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FINALLY, A SCHOOL THAT FITS.

  • Small School Big Heart
  • A Place To Thrive
  • A Welcoming Community
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