Learning center: a school within a school

Learning Center splits from SOH
by Elma Gonzalez


This year there have been many changes to our school, from the new schedule to the soon to be brand new 'Senior Building'. However, there has been one change that many are not aware of: the conversion of the learning center to an 'Independent Studies High School'. Yes, the learning center will cease to be part of SOH, to become its own school; a campus within a campus.

"All SUHSD high schools are doing this," claims Maria Santana, the 'Independent Studies' coordinator. Every Learning Center in the district and even some in other districts have made this change. Yet, the overall structure of the program will not be undergoing any changes. It will remain as an accelerated credit recovery program, in which students with difficult, personal situations will be able to finish their high school education without attending a common high school. "They come two hours a day and receive 30 hours of homework per week," explains Ms. Santana.

Many believe that the 'learning center' -or independent studies high- is only for students who struggle with maintaining good grades. However, this isn't the case; it was actually created as an option for students who aren't able to keep up with the normal, high school schedule due to personal problems or situations at home. In fact, it was designed to motivate those students to continue their education and go to college afterward. While being part of this program, students have their own counselor and enjoy a 1:1 student-teacher ratio.

Overall, Independent Studies High has many things to offer to its students. Although it is an option offered to all students, it is up to the principal and school counselor to decide whether or not the student should enter this program. So, don't think you can just go, sign up, and start going to school two hours a day; it takes extraordinary circumstances to be able to do so. For those in such circumstances, an agreement has to be reached between all parties -including the student's parents. Despite the fact this is a great program, our principal, Dr. Armstrong says she would rather "keep the students at SOH" so that they can graduate with their class.