Monarch School in downtown San Diego was established through a special partnership between the San Diego County Office of Education and a nonprofit organization, Monarch School Project, with the shared mission to meet the unique and challenging educational needs of children living in transitional environments. The Monarch School’s former campus was 10,000 sq. ft. and beyond capacity, serving 150 students. Each classroom operated two grade levels, and eye exams and tutoring were held in the lobby. The outdoor area served as a cafeteria, gym, playground, auditorium and study hall. Renovation of a 51,000 sq. ft. LEED Silver building provides a classroom for each grade level, computer and science labs, a library, tutoring and health centers, a gymnasium and an outdoor recreation area. The Monarch School now helps 400 of San Diego’s homeless children break the cycle of poverty through accredited education, tutoring and an after-school program, as well as medical and dental care, food and clothing, hygiene kits, transportation and family assistance.