SAN GABRIEL, CA – Del Mar High School was named a 2018 Model Continuation High School by the California Department of Education for tailoring instruction to student needs and fostering a positive school climate, which aid at-risk youth on their path to graduation.

This year, 32 of California’s 441 continuation schools were designated as Model Schools, which offer exemplary services to students who need additional academic, social or emotional support in their pursuit of a diploma.

Del Mar High School offers a personalized approach to learning by balancing customized lessons, dedicated counseling services and peer encouragement with research-driven and standards-based instruction.

“At Del Mar, our goal is to make the program fit the students, rather than the other way around,” Del Mar Principal Lon Sellers said. “We encourage students to take back their self-esteem, to seek new challenges and envision a future for themselves. This award shows that our efforts to help students find their own path to success have not gone unnoticed.”

Del Mar was also recognized for fostering a culture of respect, inclusion and engagement on campus, a product of its close-knit student body and its growing list of activities. Students are encouraged to take on leadership positions in campus programs, compete in Del Mar’s continuation school sports league, and volunteer with community organizations.

The latest three-year recognition continues a tradition for Del Mar, which has been designated as a model continuation high school two times previously.

Schools were selected after a comprehensive and competitive application process that involved effectiveness, assessments and use of data. The process included a peer review panel and a site visit to validate the schools and their programs to drive student success.

The Model Continuation High School program is a partnership between the CDE and the California Continuation Education Association (CCEA). Del Mar and the other winners will be honored at the 2018 CCEA State Conference, scheduled for April 27-29 in San Diego.

“Del Mar High is an exceptional school that helps our students overcome personal obstacles in order to reach their greatest potential,” SGUSD Superintendent Dr. John Pappalardo said. “This recognition is a testament to the skill and commitment of the Del Mar staff and Principal Lon Sellers, and we congratulate them on this well-deserved honor.”