Tiffany Cooper-Ortega had a vision in 2016 to bring an alternative education program to OUSD Elementary School Students. Inspired by Home School Families, Charter Families and Families of OUSD's existing 6th-12th grade Independent Study program, she set out to design an innovative program just for K-5th grade students. In 2017, she opened the doors to many OUSD Families looking for a change. Fast Forward to 2020 and The Covid Pandemic, and Mrs. Ortega expanded and accomodated over 180 K-5 students, turning none away. In 2021, Mrs. Ortega, while on a special Assignment outside the District, remains a powerful force behind what has evolved to the current Surfside K-5 Independent Study, and remains an active part of, "her baby," Surfside's K-5 program. We cannot properly welcome you to Surfside K-5 without recognizing our roots. As Mrs. Ortega is fond of saying, are you looking for something different? Let’s make it happen!