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Model Continuation High School Recognition Program

Honors outstanding continuation high schools for their comprehensive programs and provides a list of model continuation high schools for school visitations.

The Model Continuation High School (MCHS) Recognition Program identifies and recognizes outstanding programs and creates a resource list of quality programs for school visitations. These schools provide comprehensive services to at-risk youth through the use of exemplary instructional strategies, flexible scheduling, and guidance and counseling services. The California Department of Education (CDE) encourages continuation high schools that meet the eligibility criteria to submit an application to the MCHS Recognition Program.

Application Packet

Invitation letter, intent to submit, application, and forms for the 2025–26 MCHS Recognition Program. Applications must be submitted to the CDE electronically as a single PDF via the CDE exFiles File Transfer System. (See application for specific instructions.) Applications must be received by no later than 4 p.m. on Wednesday, July 16, 2025.

Document Description
Invitation Letter Letter inviting principals of continuation high schools to apply for the 2025–26 MCHS Recognition Program
Intent to Submit MCHS Online form will close on Friday, May 30, 2025, at 4 p.m.
MCHS Recognition Program Application (DOCX) Overview and Instructions to complete and submit the application
Attachment A (PDF) Application Cover Sheet (Either an electronic signature or typed name will be accepted.)
Attachment B (PDF) School Information Sheet
Attachment C (PDF) Certification Form for Applicant School and District (Either electronic signatures or typed names will be accepted.)
Attachment D (PDF) Glossary
Rubric (DOCX) Included for informational purposes only

Webinar Information

When: Thursday, May 22, 2025, from 1:30–3:30 p.m. (Pacific Time)
Topic: 2025–26 Model Community Day School (MCDS) and MCHS Application

Register in advance for the webinar: 2025–26 MCDS and MCHS Application Webinar External link opens in new window or tab.

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

Information Regarding the Prior Webinar: The webinar held on April 16, 2025, provided an overview of the 2025–26 MCDS and MCHS Application and how to complete and process each application. The webinar also pointed out items that have disqualified applicants in previous years.

2025–26 MCDS and MCHS Application Webinar Slides (PPTX)

Annual Assurance of Services Forms for Current MCHSs

Schools selected as MCHSs are required to submit an Annual Assurance of Services Form to the CDE by June 30 for each of the second and third years of designation. This form certifies that the school meets or exceeds the MCHS Recognition Program standards. Links to Annual Assurance of Services Forms for current MCHSs are provided below.

Due to current working conditions related to COVID-19, forms may include either an electronic signature or typed name and must be submitted to Dan Sackheim, Education Programs Consultant, Educational Options Office, by email at ContinuationEduc@cde.ca.gov.

News Releases

Questions:   Educational Options Office | ContinuationEduc@cde.ca.gov | 916-323-2183
Last Reviewed: Tuesday, May 13, 2025