Game Plan for Opportunity: CEO San Jose Opens Its Doors for Fair Chance Month

On April 30 the Center for Employment Opportunities San Jose will host an Open House themed “Game Plan for Opportunity” to mark Fair Chance Month and demonstrate how targeted programs clear paths for justice-impacted residents to build stable careers.

The evening at 521 Parrott Street runs from 4:30 to 7:00 PM and features facility tours that let visitors see training rooms in action. Program participants and alumni will share personal accounts of moving from incarceration through life-skills development and transitional employment into full-time positions. Local employers and partners will join discussions on the practical benefits of fair-chance hiring practices.

CEO operates a model proven across 30 cities in 12 states. Daily-pay transitional jobs provide immediate structure and income while job coaching and advanced training prepare individuals for roles in high-demand fields. San Jose’s location benefits from this framework tailored to the area’s dynamic job market, delivering measurable gains in employment retention and community stability.

Plan to attend if your work or interests align with building stronger economic pathways. The open format encourages direct conversations that often spark new collaborations right on the spot.

For additional information, visit ceoworks.org.

Hillbrook School Debuts Permanent High School Campus in Downtown San Jose

San Jose has gained a new educational landmark as Hillbrook School opens its permanent high school campus in Downtown San Jose. Known for its JK-8 program in Los Gatos, the school now extends its innovative approach to older students in a vibrant urban setting. The new facilities at 227 N. First Street include classrooms, offices, and an arts and athletics center, creating a hub that blends learning with city life.

Students benefit from direct connections to the surrounding neighborhood. They visit City Hall to meet officials, collaborate with cultural organizations like MACLA for performing arts, and enjoy meals from nearby spots such as Hobee’s and Teske’s Germania. Partnerships with transitional housing facilities and easy access via public transit like VTA and Caltrain make the campus a seamless part of San Jose's community fabric.

For young learners transitioning from middle school, this Downtown location offers real-world opportunities. One student highlighted the draw of urban research programs, volunteer work, and partnerships that enrich daily education. The environment encourages hands-on, interdisciplinary experiences that prepare teens for broader horizons.

The campus revives historic structures, including the 1890s-era Moyer Building and a former National Guard Armory. These renovations, totaling around $20 million, preserve character while providing modern spaces filled with natural light and unique layouts. This effort highlights San Jose's commitment to sustainable redevelopment.

With 106 students enrolled and plans to grow to 250-300, Hillbrook focuses on deepening Downtown ties and expanding programs. Financial aid supports about one-third of families, ensuring diverse access to this community-centered education.

Source: SVBJ