For the fifth year in a row, Jereann Bowman High School has been named a Model Continuation High School by the California Department of Education (CDE), one of 35 schools across the state. These schools are recognized for operating innovative academic programs that help prepare at-risk students for 21st century careers and college.

“I applaud the dedicated administration and staff on their work to assist and motivate at-risk students and help them reach their full potential,” said Tom Torlakson, State Superintendent of Public Instruction. “The positive and nurturing climate these schools have created inspires students to do well in their academic work and also to contribute to their communities.”

Continuation schools provide a high school diploma program for students ages 16-18 who have not graduated from high school, are required to attend school, and are at risk of not completing their education. The 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 on-site visit.

“Being named a Model Continuation High School for five years in a row is such an honor,” said Vicki Engbrecht, Superintendent of the Hart School District. “It is certainly a testament to not just the hard work and dedication from the staff, but the passion the teachers and administrators at Bowman have for the success of their students.”

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.

More than 55,000 students attended the state’s 452 continuation high schools during the 2015–16 school year. The 35 schools selected as Model Continuation High Schools retain their designation for three years and will be recognized at the 2017 CCEA State Conference in Fresno on April 28–30. For more information, please visit the CDE Continuation Education Web page or the CCEA Web site.