In the past, many parents avoided Oakland Public Schools.  The schools had a horrible reputation, worsened by budget controversies and the eventual takeover of the school district by state authorities. However, local control has returned to the district and test scores have shown continual improvement at many schools.

Last week, the 2010 California Standards Test showed that the number of Oakland elementary students testing as proficient or advanced rose by 8 percent in both English Language Arts and Math, while the five-year growth in those categories totals 15 and 20 percent, respectively. In addition, due to the economy, many families are removing their kids from private schools and giving Oakland public and charter schools another look.

Surrounded by the bright and vivid colors of The Art of Living Black exhibit, representatives from a range of parent and family groups came together Friday seeking answers about how to maneuver through the complexities of the Bay Area educational system.