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Sierra High named among California’s best continuation schools
Fourth consecutive time Azusa Unified's Sierra High has been honored
Azusa Unified’s Sierra High School once again has been named by the California Department of Education as a 2018 Model Continuation High School, one of just 32 schools recognized statewide. This is the fourth consecutive selection of Sierra for the designation. The high school was honored for its efforts to create a program and an atmosphere in which students facing exceptional challenges to academic success can get the support they need to get back on track toward graduation and beyond.
“These model continuation high schools provide a space where students can feel a sense of accomplishment and increased confidence and receive strong educational support,” State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson said.
Including Sierra High, only 32 of California’s 441 continuation schools were chosen as models for the rest.
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“Sierra is an important alternative for students,” said AUSD Superintendent Linda Kaminski. “Sierra offers support for students who want to work hard to keep moving forward.”
“Our students are important members of the Azusa community,” explained Sierra Principal Paul Hernandez. “They have a lot to contribute and I know that they will help a lot of people on their journeys through life. Right now, they just need a little help from us.” Hernandez also had praise for his staff and for the Azusa Unified School Board and administration. “The district believes in and supports our mission,” he said, noting that Sierra is unusual among continuation high schools for offering several Advanced Placement (AP) courses and a dual-enrollment opportunity at Citrus College.
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Sierra and the other Model Continuation Schools were selected based on a comprehensive and competitive application process that involved effectiveness assessments and use of data. The process included a peer review panel and an on-site visit by an evaluation team.
The schools will be recognized at the 2018 California Continuation Education Association (CCEA) State Conference in April.
ABOUT AUSD: Azusa Unified School District educates almost 8,300 students in grades Preschool-12 at 18 schools. Our graduation rate exceeds both the state and national averages.