State Recognizes Seven San Diego County Campuses as Model Continuation High Schools 

Seven San Diego County schools are designated 2026 Model Continuation High Schools (MCHS), a recognition through the California Department of Education for schools that provide comprehensive services to students navigating significant barriers so they can thrive.  

The seven schools are among 59 high schools statewide recognized for the important work they do to support equitable outcomes for all students. These schools play a critical role in re-engaging students by providing flexible, student-centered approaches through exemplary instructional strategies, flexible scheduling, and guidance and counseling services that support academic progress, belonging, and future readiness. 

• Alta Vista High School – Vista Unified School District  
• Chaparral High School – Grossmont Union High  
• Major General Raymond Murray High School – Vista Unified  
• Montecito High School – Ramona Unified  
• Palomar High School – Sweetwater Union High  
• Twin Oaks High School – San Marcos Unified  
• Valley High School – Escondido Union High  

“The student-centered approach of our continuation schools supports the educational, social, and emotional needs of the diverse communities they serve,” said Dr. Gloria E. Ciriza, San Diego County superintendent of schools. “By offering them more than just a diploma, alternative education programs create opportunities for career exploration and readiness.” 

Administrators and teachers at San Diego County continuation schools participate in and receive support from the Community of Alternative Education Leaders (CAEL), developed and facilitated by SDCOE’s Transformational Leadership and Systems Support team. The network is designed to build community, share promising practices, and support continuous improvement in alternative education settings. 

“Through quarterly collaborations, site visits, cross-county virtual gatherings, and ongoing connection and support, CAEL creates meaningful opportunities for leaders to learn from one another and bring actionable ideas back to their sites,” says Todd Langager, director of implementation, improvement, and impact. “Many have shared that the network helps them feel less isolated, more supported, and inspired with new ideas they can implement immediately.” 

The 59 schools selected as MCHS retain their designation from the California Department of Education for three years. They will be formally recognized at the California Continuation Education Association Plus conference in Los Angeles April 30 to May 3. For more information on continuation education, please visit the CDE Continuation Education webpage.