Head-Royce School
Oakland, CA
Giving Tuesday for Heads Up
For over 35 years, Heads Up has nurtured the brilliance, curiosity, and leadership of Oakland youth through enriching year-round programming. Your Giving Tuesday support ensures that this trusted program continues to thrive for years to come.
What is Heads Up?
Heads Up is a four-year, tuition-free program that creates transformative learning and leadership opportunities for promising first-generation, college-bound students of color in Oakland public schools. Founded in 1987 and rooted in Head Royce School’s mission of developing students of character, intellect, and creativity, the program begins the summer before sixth grade and continues through tenth grade.
Through rigorous academics, enrichment, and year-round leadership development in both the Summer Program and the Saturday Leadership Academy, students strengthen their academic foundations, build confidence, and grow as socially responsible leaders, all at no cost to their families.
Who participates in Heads Up?
Heads Up partners with Oakland youth from Title I schools who bring brilliance, creativity, resilience, and deep cultural and community knowledge. Students join the program as rising sixth graders and stay through tenth grade, forming lasting relationships with teachers, counselors, and peers that support their growth across multiple years.
How many students participate each year?
Each year, Heads Up serves approximately 120 rising sixth through tenth graders. In addition, 30 to 40 high school and college-aged Heads Up program alumni return as paid counselors and teaching assistants, gaining early workforce experience while supporting younger participants.
Why are gifts to Heads Up so important?
Heads Up is offered entirely tuition-free for our families. Gifts to Heads Up support all operating costs of the program. Your generosity ensures that Heads Up students have access to rigorous academics, meaningful enrichment, consistent mentorship, year-round leadership development, and a stable community that supports their growth throughout middle school and early high school.
Can I make my gift in honor of someone?
Yes! You may designate your gift in honor or memory of a student, counselor, teacher, or family member directly on the giving form. We can notify the honoree if requested.
Is my gift tax-deductible?
Yes, all gifts made to Heads Up through Head Royce School are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. You will receive an emailed receipt for your records.