Calaveras Hills High School named Model Continuation High School for 2019

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Calaveras Hills High School was named one of 31 continuation high schools in the state newly designated as a Model Continuation High School for 2019, according to a News Release that was issued by the California Department of Education on February 13. More than 51,000 students attended the state’s 435 continuation high school during the 2017-2018 school year. 

"These schools have created exemplary programs and strategies that provide students with a second chance at academic success,” State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond stated in the release. “The commitment demonstrated by the teachers and administrative staff, combined with a culture of caring that focuses on the emotional and education needs of the unique populations they serve, are what make these continuation high schools the best examples of how to help kids strive and reach their full potential.”

 The schools were selected based on a rigorous application process that included a peer review panel and on-site visit. Cal Hills’ visit was held last December.

"We are very proud of the designation of being a Model Continuation High School in the state,” said Cal Hills Principal Carl Stice. “It brings positive attention to the great things that alternative high schools like Cal Hills are doing to help students who have experienced challenges and have overcome them with the right supportive educational environment. I would especially like to thank our teachers and staff, because without them working hard every day, this designation would not have happened!"

The Model Continuation High Schools Recognition Program is a joint project of the California Department of Education (CDE) and the California Continuation Education Association (CCEA). The program honors continuation high schools for the comprehensive services they provide at-risk youth through instructional strategies, flexible scheduling, guidance, and counseling, according to the news release.

Calaveras Hills was recognized, in particular, for having rigorous academic classes, Career Technology Education classes in Engineering, a very positive school culture utilizing evidence-based Restorative Justice practices, and a highly qualified and caring staff.

“Our students at Cal Hills High School are inquisitive, resourceful, and eager for challenges that will open the world to them in ways they could not have imagined,” Superintendent Cheryl Jordan said. “Our Cal Hills team of professionals believes in the power of possible and has forged new pathways for our learners such as engineering, robotics, and community based instruction. We are proud that our Cal Hills graduates are ready for their next venture forward, and that the state has designated the school a Model Continuation High School."

All 31 schools, including Cal Hills, will retain its designation for three years. They will be recognized at the 2019 CCEA State Conference in Santa Clara April 26-28.