The mission of Alternative Education is to provide individualized learning opportunities that address the educational needs of each student in a safe and nurturing environment. We in Alternative Education believe that ALL STUDENTS CAN LEARN. The faculty and staff are dedicated to providing excellence in education in a small learning community that is conducive to learning.

Chaparral High School is the main continuation/alternative school for the Grossmont Union High School District (GUHSD). Currently GUHSD serves 24,456 students at 12 high schools. Located in the city of El Cajon, it provides an alternative educational setting for an average of 300 students, eighty of which are designated Special Education, in grades nine through twelve. Students at Chaparral are referred by the eleven comprehensive high schools in the District for reasons involving poor attendance, lack of academic success or behavioral issues. In addition, students may voluntarily elect to attend Chaparral. The student population changes as students are returned to their school of residence upon completion of their remediation and/or academic goals. Chaparral offers programs and services to supplement the basic education program. Some of these services include an incoming orientation, Special Education Program, extended day tutorials and Title I support.

Lucia Washburn
Principal