Escuela Popular (EP) began as a community-based grassroots school to address a growing need for English instruction in East San Jose and, as a result, has been providing educational services since 1986. Within the first year of operation, demand for learning and schooling grew rapidly, and EP continued to expand its number of students, classes, and services to meet these needs. EP currently operates three academies: a K–8 Dual Language Academy, a 9–12 Youth Academy, and a 9–12 Adult Academy offering both PM and AM sessions. The school is open from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM.