Embedded Files
The Monthly Newsletter for Alta Vista High School & Major General Murray High School
The Community Continuation Schools in Vista Unified School District
December 2025
December 2025
Volume 3 | Issue 4
Volume 3 | Issue 4
🌟 November's Triumphs: Alt Ed Students Shine in Science, Careers, and Community
🌟 November's Triumphs: Alt Ed Students Shine in Science, Careers, and Community
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
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
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
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.
Principal's Note
Principal's Note
As the season of gratitude arrived, our Community Schools at AVHS and MGM continued to shine with meaningful learning, strong partnerships, and celebrations of student success. Across Alta Vista and Major General Murray, November brought a flurry of events that highlighted what makes our community school model powerful: deep relationships, real-world learning, and a shared commitment to supporting the whole child.
At Alta Vista High School, families gathered for a warm and welcoming Coffee with the Principal hosted by Xochi Tejeda Robles, where new parents connected with returning families and shared their insights on what helps students thrive. At Murray High School, Adriana Gamino-Diaz hosted an equally engaging Coffee with the Principal, creating space for parents to exchange strategies and hear updates on the vibrant programs occurring on campus. These gatherings are the heartbeat of community schools: families and staff working together to uplift students through partnership, communication, and care.
We also saw incredible examples of real-world, purpose-driven learning. Kirstin DeGeer’s students took part in the regional Forestry Challenge, where they joined other high school teams to learn field science, practice data collection techniques, and apply environmental problem solving to real ecological questions. Sergio Cruz’s advisee, Jorge Cruz, from Alta Vista, leveraged his resume, shadow day experience, and culinary skills to earn a job at Dog Haus Biergarten in Downtown Vista: a powerful testament to the Big Picture Learning model in action; he was then selected as a VUSD Rising Star Senior of the month for November! MGM and Alta students continued to build momentum in programs like weldingcosmetology, alongside students sharing their Who Am I reflections in Advisory classes that highlight real growth and newfound confidence. Staff at both sites facilitated L2Ls (Leave to Learns), including visits to auto body shops, early childhood education workplaces, and hands-on programs that help students explore career pathways.
Both Alta Vista and Murray were honored this month with visits from state representatives of the Model Continuation School Program, as well as principals of nearby continuation and charter schools, recognizing not only academic rigor but also the culture of belonging and opportunity our staff cultivate every day. This honor reflects years of dedication, relationship-building, and innovative problem solving on behalf of students and families.
For October, we celebrated one of our standout seniors, Daishun Owens, Murray’s Rising Star of the Month, whose strong communication skills, leadership, and personal growth represent exactly what is possible when students feel seen, supported, and empowered.
As we move further into the holiday season, we extend our deepest gratitude to our students, families, staff, and community partners. It is your collaboration and shared belief in young people that make Alta Vista and Murray true community schools where students discover who they are, what they love, and what they can contribute to the world.
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