Emma Batten-Bowman

Emma developed a one of a kind pathway for the growing Newcomer population in Oakland Unified. Emma leads this innovative school to rapidly build English fluency while healing trauma and broadening college and career opportunities for mostly unaccompanied minors in Oakland. Emma believes in education over schooling and has tried to create a truly alternative school where both students and staff can thrive. 

Emma started her career as a 9th grade English teacher at Mandela High School in East Oakland, becoming a Literacy Specialist in middle school, then an Instructional Coach and Restorative Justice Coordinator at Rudsdale Continuation High School and now an Assistant Principal. 

Emma is the proud mother of three boys as well as an OUSD parent. Emma loves to cook, work on her house, and throw parties with family and friends. Emma’s happy place is on the beach, preferably in Jamaica with her in-laws.