Sunset High Receives Esteemed Recognition from the State

The California Superintendent of Public Instruction has named Sunset High School as a Model Continuation School.  Sunset is just one of three Continuation schools north of Sacramento to be so honored.

Sunset principal Tony Fabricius touted his team and programs worthy of the recognition. “Many times it takes someone from out of the area, with fresh eyes to open our eyes to the incredible achievements and innovations happening right here in Del Norte County,” beamed the prideful principal.

After submitting the application, the Sunset team submitted all the school’s data, from demographics to academics to graduation rates, and the tedious evaluation was underway.

A representative from the Education Department in Sacramento visited Sunset High, observed programs and operations and interviewed members of the community in a focus group setting.

Besides winning the Model School honors, Sunset was also presented with an Exemplary Program Award for playing host to third and fifth graders on field trips, which the observer said showed, “outstanding commitment to students’ success, whose dedication to providing innovative and impactful educational opportunities sets your program apart.”

The Future Farmers of America (FFA) at Sunset were also recognized. Sunset High is the sole continuation school with an FFA chapter. The State observer mused that Sunset had more exemplary programs on one campus than he’d observed elsewhere. 

Sunset matriculates about 100 students who discover they are better served by the Continuation model rather than a traditional high school setting.

Fabricius continued in his praise of staff. “In the end, the honor is important to our staff and especially to our students. (Kids) find themselves at Sunset for any number of reasons, but it’s usually after difficult challenges elsewhere.  With the programs we’ve built, we help develop a sense of purpose, pride, connection, leadership and accomplishment.”

Congratulations, Sunset High School!