State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond has announced that 74 schools throughout the state were recognized as Model Continuation High Schools for 2025. These schools provide comprehensive services to at-risk youth through exemplary instructional strategies, flexible scheduling, and guidance and counseling services. Continuation schools provide a high school diploma program for students who have not graduated from high school, are required to attend school, and are at risk of not completing their education.

“The priority of our Model Continuation High Schools is to give students more than a diploma,” said Thurmond, in a news release. The teachers and administrators aim to provide students with a student-centered approach that meets their diverse academic, social and emotional needs and opportunities to explore options beyond high school, preparing students for the future whether they choose to pursue further education or join the workforce.”

Currently, there are 429 continuation high schools who serve close to 49,000 students throughout the state. MCHSs excel and provide exceptional opportunities for their students to pursue academic and social success. For example:

Dario Cassina High School, Sonora Union High School District: Dario Cassina High School in Sonora exemplifies best practices in alternative education by providing a holistic, student-centered approach that meets the diverse academic, social and emotional needs of its students. Serving a vulnerable population, the school integrates trauma-informed practices and community school models to create a safe, supportive environment where students feel valued and understood. Staff members are trained in methods such as the Personal Brain Model and Adverse Childhood Experiences framework, equipping them to address challenges with empathy and expertise. The school’s flexible scheduling accommodates individualized learning paths, including dual enrollment, work experience and partial credit options, ensuring students remain on track to graduate while balancing personal responsibilities.

Mount Toro High School, Salinas Union High School District: Mount Toro High School in Salinas and the district have become trendsetters by implementing a strong community-based mentorship program for students on campus. This program has given them strong pride in themselves and their school. Equally impressive is Mount Toro’s dedication to establishing an academic response to literacy and meeting the needs of the English learner population. Last year Mount Toro had a 24 percent increase in English learner progress. What makes this especially amazing is that Mount Toro is in the heart of one of California’s most significant farm-working communities.

New Valley High School, Santa Clara Unified School District: Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, New Valley High School in Santa Clara prides itself in “educating the whole child” as more than just words. One student stated that this school “makes you care.” Another student remarked, “This school has taught me to say ‘thank you’ more.” These comments illustrate New Valley’s focus on the preparation of each student to be a citizen and not just gain a diploma. New Valley is a place where every student’s needs are promptly met. A pervasive ethic of caring is evident in the smiles of the students on campus. “You can’t be invisible here,” a student said about attending New Valley. The staff has developed a community that is never pushed or forced but is always present and available.

San Andreas High School, San Bernardino City Unified School District: San Andreas High School in San Bernardino exemplifies excellence as a continuation school, creating transformative opportunities for its students. Guided by the motto “We are small enough to make a big difference,” the school fosters a close-knit community where every student is valued and supported. With an unwavering commitment to student success, San Andreas has implemented innovative programs addressing academic, social-emotional and career-readiness needs. Flexible scheduling and personalized learning plans empower students to recover credits and graduate on time while preparing for post-secondary pathways. The school’s counseling services and dedicated staff ensure students receive individualized attention, helping them overcome barriers to success.

The Model Continuation High School Recognition Program is a collaborative partnership between the CDE and the California Continuation Education Association Plus. The 74 schools selected as Model Continuation High Schools retain their designation for three years. They will be recognized at the CCEA Plus 2025 State Conference.