FAQs

YES. Altus Schools East County is a fully accredited California State Charter School.  It is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). Its courses meet California Common Core curriculum standards and are approved by the University of California (meeting UC a-g requirements).

Altus Schools East County serves students in grades 7-12.

No.  Altus Schools East County is a public school. It is a publicly funded program that is free to all students.

Altus Schools East County focuses on academics through our rigorous, standards-based independent study program. Academic opportunities are provided to students during their weekly appointments to the Resource Center include: receiving support in one-on-one tutoring sessions, conducting science labs, and participating in field trips.

YES. Students can receive a California high school diploma from Altus Schools East County.

Students may also choose an educational plan which prepares them for the California Proficiency Program (CPP). Altus Schools East County students go on to four-year colleges, community colleges, vocational schools, and serve in the military.

Altus Schools holds a very special cap and gown graduation ceremony at Liberty Station to honor the achievements of the student graduates.

YES. Altus Schools East County offers courses that meet California Common Core Standards and that have been approved by the University of California for admission. The most current selection of state-adopted textbooks are used.

Altus Schools East County offers an independent study program. Independent study is an alternative education strategy for students who may have special challenges, need targeted instruction, or want an individualized approach to education.

Students work on their own according to written agreements and under the supervision of credentialed teachers. Independent study offers flexibility to meet individual students’ needs, interests, and styles of learning while independent study students follow the State-adopted curriculum and meet the graduation requirements similar to the neighboring school districts. Independent study is available only as a voluntary option chosen by students and parents.

In independent study, students’ work (grade C or better) that is approved by their teacher is their attendance (not time in the Resource Center).

At Altus Schools, teachers and families collaborate to design a flexible schedule that meets each student’s unique needs. Like college, students complete most of their coursework at home while also receiving personalized support at one of our innovative and futuristic Resource Centers. Students typically attend the Resource Center 2-3 days a week for focused, one-on-one or small-group tutoring sessions. However, they are always welcome to come in more often for additional support in any of their courses, ensuring they have the help they need to succeed.

Altus Schools is a year-round program to maximize the number of days and time that students can earn credits.

The calendar includes observance of the traditional holidays and breaks (winter—2 weeks, spring—1 week). However, students are encouraged to work independently throughout the year to accomplish their academic goals.

Resource Centers are located in El Cajon, La Mesa and Paradise Valley. Check out our Locations page for more details!

Yes, our Resource Centers are available to all students.

No. Parents are responsible for providing transportation.

Parents/guardians can begin the enrollment process by completing a Request Enrollment form right here through Altus Schools East County’s website.

In addition to completing the Online Enrollment form, please send us the following forms by fax, email, or mail:

• Immunization/health records
• Proof of Residence (i.e., landline phone bill)

You will get a call to meet with your teacher within three to five business days after successfully sending us all required enrollment paperwork.

Your parent/guardian will receive a call/email from the teacher to schedule your first meeting. Together, parents, students, and teachers will review/modify the personal educational plan based on the student’s academic and post-high school/career goals. This is a very important meeting and both parent and student must attend. At this meeting, the student will receive his/her first course information and materials.