The Community School Communicator

As the leaves turned and the holiday season approached, our Alternative Education (Alt Ed) Community Schools, Alta Vista High School (Alta), and Murray High School (MGM), packed November with remarkable achievements, hands-on learning, and deep community engagement. The past month served as a powerful testament to the commitment of our educators and the incredible potential of our students, demonstrating that relationship-based, real-world learning truly prepares students for life.

Model School Excellence and Student Triumphs

We kicked off November with a phenomenal achievement: both Alta and Murray received the preliminary recommendation for re-designation as Model Continuation Schools! This extraordinary honor reflects the dedication of every staff member, parent, and community partner in providing flexible, rigorous, and relationship-centered learning experiences.

The success continued with our students taking on new challenges. Alta Vista’s Jorge Cruz landed a job at Dog Haus in Downtown Vista, a fantastic example of the Big Picture Learning model, where his culinary skills and resume experience directly connected him to the workforce. This milestone was highlighted by honoring Rising Star Senior Jorge Cruz (Alta) for his journey of growth and success.

Hands-On Science and Career Pathways

Our schools are constantly providing students with unforgettable, real-world learning opportunities:

• Forestry Challenge: A small but mighty team, led by Kirstin Degeer, traveled to the San Bernardino Mountains to compete in the Forestry Challenge. Students immersed themselves in real environmental science, performing field data collection, forest ecology, and public presentation, stepping directly into the shoes of environmental professionals for an overnight learning experience.

• Exploring the Universe and Beyond: Sergio Cruz led a group to the renowned Palomar Observatory, where students explored one of Southern California's premier astronomical research sites, learning how science and engineering help us understand the cosmos.

• A group attended the Palomar College Trades Day to explore career pathways in construction, automotive technology, and advanced manufacturing.

• Civic Engagement: Sixteen students traveled to the San Diego Civic Center to explore career pathways in public service and civic engagement.

Wellness, Community, and Important Conversations

Our commitment to student well-being and community connection remained a central focus. Staff facilitated alternative learning environments, from advisory off-campus gatherings at a local coffee shop to a career-focused research trip to the public library. Kim Harrington, Andy Dayus, and Lisa Cafro kicked off a new 21C program called Outdoor Adventures, dedicated to nature walks, wellness, and exploring community spaces. Additionally, a Beach Therapy trip is in the works to offer students a chance to connect, reflect, and engage in wellness practices outside the classroom setting.

The community was also brought onto our campuses:

• Dr. Martin Leyva, a CSU San Marcos professor, shared his powerful message on gang awareness, community, and the importance of belonging, deeply resonating with students and staff.

• The community celebrated the season with lively Fall Festivals at Alta and Murray, brought to life by our Community Liaisons.

• Alta hosted Coffee with the Dean and Community Liaison, offering families a space to hear about the great things happening on campus.

As we move into the final weeks of 2025, we remain immensely grateful for the committed, creative, and student-centered work of our entire Alt Ed family. We hope everyone enjoyed a restorative Thanksgiving break and is recharged for the exciting weeks ahead.