Principal's Message

As principal, I would like to welcome you to the Anaheim Union High District’s Alternative Education webpage. Our district is proud to provide several educational options for our students that are in need of an alternative to the traditional school environment. All of our programs and schools require the same rigorous district standards for graduation as any other school in the district. To assist students, varied instructional strategies, flexible schedules and a caring staff in combination with strong relationships with the local Regional Occupations Program (ROP) provide our students with a rich and complete educational program to prepare them for life after high school.

Under the alternative education umbrella are Gilbert High School, a continuation high school for students in grades 9-12 situated on two separate sites in the district; Polaris High School which includes our independent studies, a program designed for 9-12 grade students who are within two years of appropriate reading levels and possess the skills to be self-disciplined and self-motivated, and a home studies programs, designed for 7-12 grade students and parents who desire a shared learning experience in an independent study format; and finally, Polaris Opportunity Day School, for 7-8 grade students who are considered at-risk academically, socially and/or face personal trials. Each of our offerings provides a low student/teacher ratio to ensure increased support for the student and personalized attention. For more information on the particular schools refer to the links on the home page.

Alternative education has a school site council, single plan for student achievement and each school is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). We extend an invitation to any student, parent or interested community member to become involved by volunteering for site council or one of our other committees or organizations. If you would like more information about alternative education in the Anaheim Union High School District feel free to e-mail or call your student’s school site administrator.

In conclusion, each school though distinctly different, offers the same rigorous curriculum and regular assessments to assist students in gauging their progress and providing them with a path to graduation from high school. Any student who meets the district’s graduation requirements and has passed the California High School Exit Exam (CAHSEE) is invited to take part in a formal graduation ceremony in June. To that end we say thank you for allowing us the opportunity to share that journey with you. On behalf of the entire alternative education staff I wish the best of luck and leave you with some sage advice, “Every day counts!"

Sincerely,

Rick Martens, Ed.D.