State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond recently announced that 59 schools throughout the state were recognized as Model Continuation High Schools for 2026. Model Continuation High Schools provide comprehensive services to at-risk youth through exemplary instructional strategies, flexible scheduling, and guidance and counseling. 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.

More than 428 continuation high schools serve close to 45,000 students throughout the state. These schools excel and provide exceptional opportunities for their students to pursue academic and social success. For example:

Alta Vista High School, Vista USD Alta Vista High School stands out for its deep commitment to relationships, relevance, and real-world learning through a Big Picture Learning and project-based learning approach. A defining highlight is the internship and work-based learning program, where students apply their learning in the community, build confidence, and form real connections. Students also participate in intramural sports to support wellness, teamwork, and belonging. During the site visit, parents shared words like “awesome” and “life-changing” in describing the school.

John Hope Continuation High School, Los Angeles USD Students feel welcomed rather than “judged.” Respect for student identity is embedded in daily practice, which includes the consistent use of students’ chosen pronouns and a strong commitment to culturally responsive teaching. Students receive both in-school and after-school therapy services, including weekly group sessions known as “The Lunch Bunch,” which address student-identified needs such as grief, anxiety, identity, and relationship-building. The psychiatric social worker coordinates referrals for students requiring more intensive services, while teachers and staff are trained to recognize early signs of distress and respond appropriately.

Summit High School, Desert Sands USD Summit High School exemplifies a holistic approach to education through its Multi-Tiered System of Supports wellness program, a vibrant art program, and a deeply rooted culture of inclusivity and belonging. Complementing the MTSS wellness program is Summit’s dynamic art program, which serves as both a creative outlet and a therapeutic resource for students. Art classes are designed to nurture self-expression, build confidence, and provide students with opportunities to explore their identities and lived experiences in a safe and supportive environment.

Sierra Continuation High School, Tahoe-Truckee USD Students at Sierra are engaged and proud of their learning. In every classroom, collaboration, curiosity, and confidence fill the air. The onsite teen pregnancy program and daycare facility provide essential support to allow young parents to continue their education while caring for their children. The agriculture program stands out as a model of creativity and applied learning methods. Students are developing and producing a film on the controversial reintroduction of wolves in California. Their work has earned recognition with an invitation to present at the International Wild Film Festival in Montana — an inspiring example of student initiative and storytelling with real-world impact.

Yosemite High School, Merced Union HSD Career Technical Education pathways, including agriculture, welding, cosmetology, and energy and power technology, provide hands-on learning and industry certifications. Students engage in real-world projects such as growing produce in onsite greenhouses, designing solar-powered systems, and creating PurpleAir air monitors. These efforts have been showcased at statewide events like the California STEAM Symposium and the California Green Schools Summit. Leadership, engagement, and community involvement thrive through student leadership programs, intramural sports, after-school clubs, and partnerships with organizations such as Merced College and the Police Activities League. Creative projects, including a large pottery mosaic of Yosemite National Park, celebrate student identity and community while fostering collaboration and pride. They give some students their first win.

Boynton High School, Campbell Union HSD A clear and consistent theme across all focus groups was that Boynton represents an opportunity for a fresh start grounded in strong relationships, high expectations, and a deep sense of belonging. Students shared that within the smaller class environment, they feel respected, known, and motivated by teachers who provide individualized attention they had not experienced previously. Teachers leverage instructional flexibility and project-based learning to make content meaningful, as demonstrated through the Arts, Media, and Entertainment CTE program featuring a recording studio, animation software, and industry-informed coursework.

The 59 schools selected as MCHS retain their designation for three years. They will be recognized at the CCEA Plus 2026 State Conference, which will be April 30-May 3 in Los Angeles.

For the full list of winners, see the March 11, 2026 news release from the CDE.