SCHOOL DESCRIPTION
Monterey High School is the continuation high school in Burbank, providing an alternative education option for Burbank residents. The average daily enrollment is over 200 at this time. Due to the open enrollment/open exit policies, the program serves over 400 students per year. Monterey has the same graduation requirements as the two comprehensive high schools in Burbank—230 prescribed credits, 10 hours of service learning, and successful passage of the California High School Exit Exam (CAHSEE). Scholarships for college and vocational training are available on a competitive basis to its graduates. Based on STAR and CAHSEE test results, students may receive intervention classes with instruction targeted toward student success on these tests.
A majority of the program is based on contracts, individual course outlines of work to be completed by students at their own pace, receiving assistance from the teachers as needed. This format is what allows students to make up credits that they are missing. In addition, “stand-up” courses are offered. These are the more traditional teacher-directed classes with nightly homework assigned. Generally students take at least one “stand-up” course in their schedule. The school is year-round, providing four quarters of instruction. The typical school day for a student is from 8:00 to 11:155 a.m. or 8:43 a.m. to 12:36 p.m. An “extra help” period is offered from 12:36-1:25 p.m. during which students remain on campus voluntarily to use a classroom as a study hall or receive individual tutoring or small group instruction. Students may opt to return to their home high school at the end of either fall or spring semester.
Monterey High School provides a comprehensive parent education program to pregnant teens and teen parents. The child care center located on campus provides up to seven hours of daycare for infants and toddlers while their parents are in class working toward their high school diplomas. These teens take a parenting class and assist in the childcare center one period per day.
Monterey High School staff pride themselves in helping to make the school fit the students’ needs. The program’s flexibility and staff have been identified on student surveys as the primary reasons for the program’s success. If you would like additional information about the program, feel free to contact the counselor or the principal.