State names Model Continuation High Schools, 3 in Kern County

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) — The California Department of Education has recognized three Kern County continuation schools for creating innovative programs that focus on academics, social and emotional learning.

Nueva Continuation High School in Lamont,Vista West High School in Bakersfield and Wasco Independence High School were honored.

“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 in a news release Tuesday. ”Creating an academically challenging yet encouraging school climate can help turn an at-risk student on the verge of dropping out into a high school graduate prepared for a future career or college.”

The selection process for schools includea peer review panel and on-site visit.

According to school officials, more than 53,000 students attended the state’s 441 continuation high schools during the 2016–17 school year.