Continuation Ed Doc

California Continuation Education Association Document

Title: Continuation Education

Author: Unknown

Date: Unknown

Continuation Education

Continuation Education is an educational option for students in California. The first continuation program began in 1919. Continuation education is designed to meet the needs of students whose needs are not being met by the regular school. There are approximately 450 continuation schools in California today.
Students who enroll in continuation education programs include students who are employed, have adjustment problems, or need a flexible educational environment for a variety of reasons.
Continuation high schools assist students in acquiring a high school diploma by offering a broad-based curriculum that includes personalized instruction; a work/study program; and intensive counseling, guidance, placement, and follow-up services.
A typical continuation high school includes small class size, individualized open-entry/open-exit program, and a competency based curriculum. Continuation students meet the same requirements for graduation as other district students.
Since continuation education high schools are designed to meet the unique personal and educational needs of students who may have been unsuccessful in their previous educational setting, schools must offer flexible programs based on open-entry/open -exit systems.
The objectives of continuation education include helping the student to:

Acquire a high school diploma or CHSPE certificate.
Become productive persons by convincing them of the importance of vocational preparation and by assisting them in acquiring entry-level job skills.
Develop a feeling of self-worth, self-confidence, and personal satisfaction.
Develop a sense of responsibility.
Develop a tolerance and understanding of a variety of viewpoints.
Engage in meaningful recreation and leisure time activities.
Understand and obey laws and participate in constructive civic activities.
Understand and practice sound money management and become intelligent consumers.

The continuation high school is heavily student oriented, but does not neglect the development of basic skills or traditional subject matter. It is important though, to concurrently focus on the development of the individual.