Brea Canyon High School (BCHS) has once again been recognized as a Model Continuation High School, a prestigious designation awarded to schools that demonstrate exemplary programs supporting students on alternative pathways to graduation.
State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond announced on March 11 that 59 schools in the Golden State earned the designation for providing comprehensive services to at-risk youth through exemplary instructional strategies, flexible scheduling, and guidance and counseling services.
This recognition highlights BCHS’s ongoing commitment to developing the whole child by providing strong academic opportunities, personalized support, and a school culture where every student feels valued and connected.
As part of the selection process, representatives from the Association of California School Administrators interviewed students, parents, community members, and district administrators during a campus visit on October 20. The interviews provided an opportunity for the school community to share how BCHS’s programs are helping students succeed academically and personally.
Expanding Opportunities Through Dual Enrollment
One of the standout achievements at BCHS has been the expansion of dual enrollment opportunities for students. Since the summer of 2024, more than 15 BCHS students have completed over 20 dual enrollment courses, primarily in Administration of Justice.
These opportunities allow students to earn college credit while still in high school, opening doors to future academic and career pathways. Notably, the Class of 2026 will be the first graduating class at BCHS in which students graduate high school having already earned college credit.
Creating a Culture of Belonging
In addition to academic growth, BCHS has focused intentionally on creating a culture of belonging where students feel supported and empowered. The school’s close-knit environment encourages strong relationships between students and staff, helping students build confidence and pursue goals they may not have previously imagined.
During a school board meeting on March 5, BCHS student Erandy Gallegos Flores shared how the school has transformed her outlook for the future:
“Since I first found out I was going to Canyon, I was nervous. I didn’t know what to expect. But since being here, I have had better grades, a job and bought a car. Canyon made all these achievements possible. The teachers at Brea Canyon believe in me enough for all these achievements to happen—they believed in me when many didn’t.
College wasn’t in the cards for me, or so I thought. Since being at Canyon High School, I have been the first person in my family to take college courses, and I am excited to start school next year at Fullerton College. While being at Canyon, I have had the opportunity to be part of a close-knit family school.”
Positive Trends in Student Success
The school has also seen encouraging improvements in student engagement and attendance. Since the start of the current school year, BCHS has maintained an average attendance rate of approximately 90 percent, while chronic absenteeism has significantly declined.
These gains reflect the effectiveness of BCHS’s supportive environment and personalized approach to student success.
A Model for Student-Centered Education
The continued recognition of Brea Canyon High School as a Model Continuation High School affirms the impact of its programs and the dedication of its staff to helping every student succeed. Through expanded academic opportunities, strong relationships, and a commitment to developing the whole child, BCHS continues to serve as a model for how continuation schools can transform lives and open doors for students.
Schools selected as Model Continuation High School retain their designation for three years. Honorees will be recognized April 30 through May 3 at the California Continuation Education Association Plus 2026 State Conference in Los Angeles.
Join us in congratulating Brea Canyon High School on this exemplary achievement.