Academic Curriculum

Grizzly Youth Academy is one of only two ChalleNGe Programs in the nation that utilizes a Charter High School. Grizzly ChalleNGe Charter School (GCCS) has the ability to award high school diplomas to cadets who meet graduation requirements. GCCS is currently chartered through the San Luis Oibispo County office of Education as an alternative high school.

Counselors and teachers individually evaluate student progress toward identified goals throughout the residential phase of the program. All students attend school daily, and a Board-adopted course of study is specially designed to maximize their potential for remediating skill levels, passing courses toward a high school diploma, and making progress toward passing the G.E.D. and California High School Proficiency Exam.

Teachers complete progress reports for every student weekly, providing current grades and assignments due. This information is shared with students, parents/guardians, and the GYA support staff so that approriate follow-up can be done. Mid-semester progress reports are sent home to parents. Upon exit from the academy, transcripts are provided to students and district schools idicating credits earned.

GCCS offers general education courses, including English/Language Arts, Social Science, Mathematics, Science, Physical Education, Computer Technology, and Fine Arts. Charter School courses are aligned to the California Standards and credit is awarded based upon authentic demonstration of knowledge learned as well as skill improvement.

In addition, GCCS offers electives. These may include Yearbook Production, Business Math and Reading, Drama, and Government. Job Shadowing is also offered during the second semester, in which cadets receive academic credit for work experience in the local community.

GCCS has a Special Education program, designed to meet the needs of students who have identified learning disabilities. A special education teacher and instructional assistant assist all students functioning significantly below grade level. During an IEP meeting, parents, students and education staff evaluate goals and objectives and determine necessary support and modifications. Other assistance is provided via books on tape, extra time on assignments and tests, and tutoring.

Counseling is also available at GCCS. These services may be elective or mandatory, based upon individualized need. The Counseling Department provides large and small-group classes such as Anger Management, Situational Decision Making, Tobacco Cessation, and HIV/STD Awareness.   Tattoo Removal and Vision Screening are also available for selected cadets.

All credits earned through the Charter School are transferable to the students` original district of residence. Whether the students` goals are to earn a GED or CHSPE, enter the military or job market, or enter community college, the Grizzly ChalleNGe Charter School has an academic program to meet their needs.