[1] The school has a tradition of family involvement and activism that stretches back to the 19th century.

[2] In 2006, Peralta was one of six schools in California where African-American students scored an API that exceeded 800 on the state STAR test.

Since the early 1990s the Peralta staff, students, families and neighbors have been working to make the school a green oasis.

The gardens are teaching too, helping students to learn about healthy eating, science, and stewardship of the land.

Families help maintain the gardens during monthly work days, which build community and give students a feeling of ownership and responsibility for their school.