Kearny High Educational Complex, located in the Linda Vista neighborhood of San Diego, offers a unique and nationally recognized small-schools model designed to create a personalized and supportive learning environment. The campus is divided into four autonomous, career-themed high schools, each with its own academic focus and administrative team. This structure allows students to build strong relationships with teachers and peers while pursuing specialized pathways that align with their interests and goals.
The four small schools include the School of Biomedical Science and Technology (BST), which emphasizes health, biotechnology, and robotics; the School of College Connections (SCC), which prepares students for postsecondary success through dual enrollment and academic support; the School of Digital Media & Design (DMD), which offers hands-on experiences in video production, audio engineering, and digital art using industry-standard equipment; and the Stanley E. Foster School of Engineering, Innovation & Design (EID), which focuses on project-based learning in engineering, robotics, and design-thinking.
Kearny operates on a 4x4 block schedule, allowing students to take up to eight courses per year, including Advanced Placement (AP) and Career Technical Education (CTE) classes. In addition to academics, the school offers a robust athletics program under the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF), with sports like football, soccer, volleyball, and track and field supported by newly renovated facilities. Students also have access to a wide range of clubs and extracurricular activities, including ASB, robotics, and cultural organizations, which foster leadership, creativity, and school spirit.
Click on the small school icons below to learn more about the great opportunities available to Kearny students!
Kearny Biomedical Science and Technology (BST) is one of the four small schools on the Kearny High Educational Complex in San Diego Unified School District. BST offers a unique, hands-on learning experience for students interested in health, medicine, and scientific research. Students can explore the Biomedical Sciences CTE pathway, which includes lab-based courses in biology, anatomy, and medical interventions, preparing them for college and careers in the health sciences.
Kearny School of College Connections (SCC) is a college-preparatory small school within the Kearny High Educational Complex in San Diego Unified School District. SCC is designed for students who want to get a head start on their college and career goals, offering a rigorous curriculum that emphasizes writing, critical thinking, and real-world application. Students can participate in two Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways: Business and Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). These programs offer hands-on courses in entrepreneurship, marketing, computer science, and digital media, helping students develop valuable technical and professional skills.
Kearny Digital Media and Design (DMD) is a creative and innovative small school within the Kearny High Educational Complex in San Diego Unified School District. DMD is ideal for students interested in art, design, film, photography, and digital storytelling. Through the Arts, Media, and Entertainment (AME) CTE pathway, students gain hands-on experience in graphic design, video production, animation, and multimedia arts using industry-standard tools and software. DMD emphasizes project-based learning, collaboration, and showcasing student work through exhibitions and competitions.
Kearny Engineering, Innovation & Design (EID) is a dynamic small school within the Kearny High Educational Complex in San Diego Unified School District that focuses on preparing students for careers in engineering, architecture, and design. Through the Engineering CTE pathway, students engage in hands-on projects, problem-solving challenges, and real-world design work using industry tools like CAD software and 3D printers. EID’s curriculum emphasizes innovation, collaboration, and critical thinking, with opportunities to work on interdisciplinary projects that reflect current industry trends.