El Camino Real earns 2022 Model Continuation High School distinction

El Camino Real High School (ECRHS) was recently honored as a 2022 Model Continuation High School by the California Department of Education (CDE). The Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District (PYLUSD) school site was one of only six continuation schools in the county and 36 in the state recognized this year.

According to CDE, schools were awarded based on the comprehensive application, which had to include detailed narrative statements describing specific aspects of exemplary school operations as well as the successful use of assessment tools and data to support continuous improvement. Model schools also had to complete a peer review panel and on-site visit.

This accomplishment was awarded to ECRHS due to their prioritization of student wellness. With services including trauma-focused development practices and a team of wellness professionals, the school has developed a strong system of support to meet the needs of each student.

Following their school review, the award’s visiting team observed that ECRHS places much importance on developing resilience within their student population to help them reach their fullest potential in the classroom and in life. 

Students are provided with countless opportunities to explore their interests and find success. Teachers aid their curiosity by offering engaging courses through programs like the Digital Design Academy, R.A.P.I.D., and electives including the history of sports.

The educators at ECRHS focus on the importance of encouraging their students to celebrate their academic victories with activities such as signing their names on the graduate wall of fame and unwinding in the “Zen Den” as a reward for their hard work.

Principal Carey Aiello was recognized by the visiting team for her attentive nature toward her staff and students, all while leading the school with a positive attitude that’s reflected in the respect exchanged throughout the ECRHS community. 

That same positive attitude is embodied by the teachers and support staff at ECRHS who tailor their lessons to each individual in order to make sure that all their students succeed. 

The ECRHS Raptors have long developed this community of individualized attention and innovative teaching as they were previously named a Model Continuation High School in 1996, 2003, 2009, and 2016.

“I am very proud of the culture at El Camino Real which centers on meeting people where they are, learning their stories, and providing thoughtful, individualized attention,” Principal Aiello shared. “The Model School Award validates our school wide efforts to make wellness a priority and to infuse real-life skills into our curriculum.”

Current PYLUSD students who are at risk of not graduating high school can earn their high school diplomas by enrolling at El Camino Real High School.