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FAQs

FAQs

What is the Peninsula High School Diploma? Is it worth less than a comprehensive high school diploma because it is from a continuation school?

  • All of our students earn a "Standard High School Diploma."
  • The only difference between our diploma and a comprehensive site diploma is for students who plan to enlist in the military. Some military branches require enrichment courses at the community college prior to enlisting, which is encouraged for all students to be more qualified for specific roles within the military.  Should a student wish to enlist in the military after graduation, we would for these unique situations have the student work towards 220 credits and offer their diploma through Peninsula Alternative High School.
  • Our transcripts/diplomas only say Peninsula High School (no indication of the continuation status of the school). The continuation status gives us flexibility around instructional minutes, alternative ways to earn credits, and the ability implement other resources and services to aid in students' success and wellness.
  • Job applications ask if you have a high school diploma and/or equivalent. Employers care more about what students do in preparation for their careers post high school.
  • Should you have further questions, please contact our principal, Ron Campana at 650-558-2400.

What is the difference between the Alternative and Continuation Programs?

Peninsula High School serves all six of the San Mateo Union High School District’s comprehensive schools.  Our programs are designed to help students get back on track academically while receiving social emotional support and career preparation. Regardless of program, each student makes a one-year commitment to our school and their placement is re-evaluated at the end of a school year.

Alternative Program:

  • Students that are sophomores are enrolled in the alternative program. In the alternative program, students work towards the same requirements as our comprehensive high schools. 
  • At the end of a student’s sophomore year, they may either continue at our site in the alternative program or return to their comprehensive school site provided they have met the requirements.
  • We allow juniors and seniors who wish to participate in athletics to be enrolled in this program as well.
  • Graduation requirements are 220 credits in the required subject areas, which is the same as the comprehensive high schools
  • Students will have a seven periods a day and work towards 105 credits a year.

Continuation Program:

  • Our continuation school serves strictly juniors and seniors who are behind on credits.
  • Students will have a five or seven periods a day and work towards 85-105 credits a year.
  • In our continuation program students may have a shorter on-site academic day provided they met one of our other requirements such as enrollment in community college courses, community service, work experience, or night school classes (Seniors Only)
  • Provide greater opportunities for student academic success with educational programs that offer flexibility, diversity, and support for student success.
  • In the continuation program, students work towards 200 credits.