Why Baden
Baden Continuation School is designed to offer a viable alternative to traditional high school instructional settings and is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).
Students who are uncomfortable in large classroom settings or whose learning style, personality, needs, or interests have gone unmet within the framework of a comprehensive high school program may respond well to the individualized instruction and smaller, personalized education that occurs at Baden.
High School versus Continuation School
| Traditional High School |
Baden Continuation School
|
|
| Academic Content |
Specific amount covered
in given time |
Pupils progress at own rate
|
| Educational Credits | Earned on a semester basis |
Earned upon completion of proficiency requirements
|
| Measurement of Academic Progress |
One (1) academic year =
Two (2) semesters |
Dependent on student's rate of learning, motivation, and accomplishment
|
|
Promotion Criteria
|
End of school semester
|
Anytime during school year
|
| Teaching Method | Group instruction: teacher as dispenser of information | Individualized instruction based on diagnosis and prescription |
Eligibility
Any student of South San Francisco Unified School District (SSFUSD) between 16 and 18 years of age who has not yet completed their high school education is eligible for enrollment at Baden.
Students typically enroll at Baden via a voluntary or involuntary transfer.
Voluntary Transfer
Parents should contact the assistant principal at their student's current high school to obtain a referral to Baden.
Most students who arrive at Baden through this method generally stay for the remainder of their high school career.
Involuntary Transfer
Students who are academically deficient or who are in violation of their high school's attendance policy or whose educational needs may be better served in an alternative setting may also be referred to Baden.
Graduation Requirements
Graduation from Baden Continuation School requires 180 credits in the following subjects.
| Subject | Credits | Time Frame |
| English | 40 | 4 years |
| Economics | 5 | ½ year |
| Fine Arts | 10 | 1 year |
| Government | 5 | ½ year |
| Health and Safety | 5 | ½ year |
| Life Science | 10 | 1 year |
| Mathematics* | 20 | 2 years |
| Physical Education (sports) | 20 | 2 years |
| Physical Science | 10 | 1 year |
| U.S. History | 10 | 1 year |
| World History | 10 | 1 year |
| Electives** | 35 | 4 years |
Graduation from traditional high schools such as El Camino High School (ECHS) and South San Francisco High School (SSFHS) requires 220 credits.
**Work experience or additional community service may be substituted for elective credit.
Additional Educational Opportunities
Baden also offers the following educational options for its students.
Concurrent Enrollment
Students in good academic standing may enroll concurrently in a community college to receive academic credit. These classes may not substitute a class offered at the high school. Contact a school counselor for more information.
Work Experience
Students working a part-time job may enroll in the Work Experience Program to receive elective credits. A work permit is required for all students under 18 years of age. Contact a work experience coordinator for more information.
Community Service
Baden requires the completion of 15 hours of community service during the senior year of high school.
Additional academic credit may be earned for any hours of service performed beyond this threshold.
Contact a school counselor for more information.
Adult School
Students with senior status may enroll in the adult high school program in the evenings to make up classes or repeat a previously attempted class. Contact a school counselor for more information.
