2026 California Exemplary Dual Enrollment Award

Altus Schools East County and Altus Schools South Bay have been named recipients of the 2026 California Exemplary Dual Enrollment Award, a prestigious statewide honor presented by the California Department of Education. This recognition highlights schools that demonstrate excellence in expanding access to college coursework for high school students.

As part of the California Schools Recognition Program, Altus Schools were among just 32 schools selected statewide and two of only four in San Diego County to receive this distinction. To earn this award, schools must demonstrate strong performance across key areas, including college partnerships, equity, integration with college and district frameworks, dual credit for high school graduation, student outcomes, pathway development, and student supports.

A key factor in the strength of Altus Schools’ dual enrollment program is its robust college partnerships. Altus Schools East County partners with Cuyamaca College, while Altus Schools South Bay partners with Southwestern College. Through these collaborations, students enroll in transferable UC and CSU-approved college courses that also satisfy high school graduation requirements. 

The Altus Schools Early College Credit Program is designed to remove barriers and expand opportunity. Courses are offered at Resource Centers, online, on college campuses, and during flexible school hours, ensuring access for all students. Most importantly, this opportunity is completely free to all Altus students, eliminating cost as a barrier to college access.

Participation in dual enrollment at Altus Schools has more than doubled over the past year, and the program continues to grow. This expansion is contributing to increased student achievement and stronger college and career readiness outcomes.

During the 2024 to 2025 school year, 500 students participated in the Early College Credit Program, successfully completing 756 college courses and gaining valuable experience with college-level academics.

In announcing the award, State Superintendent Tony Thurmond emphasized the importance of programs like these:
“By partnering with their communities, schools are opening doors and creating real opportunities for young people. Dual enrollment programs give students a chance to explore their interests and begin their college journey early at no cost.”

Altus Schools East County and Altus Schools South Bay were formally recognized at the California Schools Recognition Program ceremony held April 24, 2026 at the Disneyland Hotel. Deputy Superintendent Tim Tuter and Allison Fleck, Administrator of Instructional Services, accepted the award on behalf of Altus Schools.

This recognition affirms Altus Schools’ ongoing commitment to expanding high-quality college and career pathways and celebrates the students whose achievements continue to drive this work forward.