General Information

Sunset High School is a continuation high school, an alternative to the comprehensive high schools within the San Dieguito Union High School District. It is designed to give extensive help to students in need of more flexibility and individualized attention. The school provides a supportive learning environment in which the staff:

* recognizes the uniqueness of each individual
* offers the curriculum approved by the SDUHSD for all high school students within the district
* adapts the curriculum to meet the individual needs of the students
* encourages responsibility
* seeks to improve the student's self concept
* provides a flexible means for earning a high school diploma
* recognizes the need for vocational training and encourages student participation in ROP courses, exploratory work experience, and general work experience
* provides support groups for students who need extra help

The staff at Sunset High School identifies four major student objectives upon which the program is based:

*The student will attain, at the very least, all basic skills necessary for a productive and personally rewarding life.
*The student will accept responsibility for self and educational needs by attaining short and long-term academic goals.
*The student will develop and maintain a positive self-image and academic and personal success.
*The student will be aware of career and educational opportunities available through the general curriculum and work study programs.

Sunset High School Graduation Requirements

STAR Testing
All students in grades 9-11 shall participate in STAR testing.  Students are tested in mathematics, reading, writing (language), science, and social studies.

CAHSEE Testing
In order to receive an SDUHSD high school diploma, all students must pass the CAHSEE in addition to meeting the district's requirements for graduation .  Students are tested in English-language arts (ELA) and mathematics.  For more information go to: http://www.sduhsd.net/html/calhs_exit_exam.html and  http://www.cde.ca.gov/ta/tg/hs/overview.asp

Concurrent Enrollment
If a student needs a course that is available only at San Dieguito Academy, Torrey Pines High School, or La Costa High School, arrangements may be made to attend that class at one of these schools. The teacher of the class and the school administrators at both schools must approve such arrangements.

Discipline
Good citizenship is expected. Good citizenship includes:
* prompt and regular attendance
* mature acceptance of authority
* self-direction and control
* good relationships with peers and staff

Attendance
Students are expected in class every day, and they are expected to be on time.  If a student is absent, the parent should call the school on the day of the absence and each day there after or send a note explaining the absence with the student upon his or her return to school.  All absences for any reason (including illness, doctor's appointments, funerals, etc.) must be made up by the student.

School Property
Books, materials, and property are expensive. Students are expected to take care of the school and its property. Any damage or loss will be charged to the student and or parent(s).

Admission to Sunset
* Parent or legal guardian or student may request a voluntary transfer to Sunset through the administrator of his or her comprehensive high school.
* A student may be involuntarily transferred to Sunset for excessive absences, truancy, failing grades, misbehavior, or flagrant violation(s) of school rules.
* A student shall be enrolled only after approval by the administrator.

Proof of Residence
When registering, students new to the district will be required to show evidence that they reside within the district boundaries. A bill from the utility company (gas, electric, water, or telephone) is usually sufficient proof.

Reinstatement to San Dieguito Academy, Canyon Crest Academy, Torrey Pines High School, or La Costa Canyon High School
Any student may apply to return to the comprehensive school when the following conditions have been met:
* successful completion of a minimum of 20 credits
* satisfactory attendance and behavior
* administrative approval
 

Tobacco Policy
Sunset High School, a SDUHSD property, is tobacco free. No tobacco products shall be used on the premises, in vehicles, at events, or at any activity.

Drug and Alcohol Policy
Any student found using, selling, possessing, purchasing, or under the influence of drugs or alcohol on campus or in the vicinity will be suspended, the parents notified, and a student assistance referral (SAS) will be completed.  Any staff member who observes a student violation of this policy shall notify the building principal or designee. Before the student can be readmitted, the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) are required to meet with the principal or his designee and SAS committee members.

Guidance Services
Sunset has an advisor/advisee program.  The advisors assist their students in the following areas: academic scheduling and planning, vocational guidance, attendance, personal problems.  A counselor is also available on campus. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the above areas, contact your advisor, Don Rizzi, or Terry Hendlin.

Work Experience
Students may be granted a work permit, providing them with an opportunity to gain one-the-job experience and desirable work habits. The work experience program allows students to earn elective credit. The student may earn a maximum of 40 elective credits toward graduation.   Find more information, see the work experience page .

Immunizations
California state law requires that every student be fully immunized against certain diseases when admitted to school.  Immunizations must be completed and verified; otherwise, the student will be excluded from school until the requirement is satisfied. A parent or guardian can request exemption from immunization by asking for and signing a waiver.

Visitors
All visitors are required to check in at the school office. A guest who wishes to visit a classroom must first have permission from the teacher and principal or designee.

Insurance
The school does not carry medical insurance for students that covers accidents while at school.  Information on an insurance program is available in the school office.

Checking out of the School
Students planning to withdraw from Sunset must bring to school on the day of withdrawal all books, texts, materials or equipment that belongs to the school. Records will not be forwarded if the student owes for any material.