We invite all community day schools in the state to submit an application to become a “Model School” for the 2026-2027 school year.

The Model Community Day School (MCDS) Recognition Program is co-sponsored by the California Department of Education (CDE) and the California Continuation Education Association Plus. Community day schools serve and support high-risk youths, including those referred by expulsion, probation, a School Attendance Review Board or other district level referral process. They provide challenging academic curriculum and develop pro-social skills and resiliency. The CDE encourages community day schools to submit an application to the MCDS Recognition Program.

Intent to Submit:

CCEA Plus recommends that all schools that intend to submit an application begin by filling out this simple “Intent to Submit” Survey online here. Submission of the survey does not obligate the school to submit an application, but it will help us to assist you in the process.

Application Deadline: July 15, 2026

Applications must be submitted to the CDE electronically as a single PDF via the CDE exFiles File Transfer System (see application for specific instructions). Applications must be received by no later than 4 p.m. on Wednesday, July 15, 2026. If this date presents a challenge, please reach out to the contact below in advance to discuss possible accommodations.

Program Contact:

Dan Sackheim, Education Programs Consultant, High School Innovations and Initiatives Office
Office: Educational Options, CDE
Email: CommunityDaySch@cde.ca.gov
Phone: 916-323-2183

Timeline

June 1, 2026 — Applications available to the field.
June 4, 2026 — Application Webinar.
July 14, 2026 — Intent to Submit Survey suggested to be sent before application deadline.
July 15, 2026 — Applications must be received by 4 p.m.
September 11, 2026 — Northern Applications reviewed and rated.
September 25, 2026 — Central Applications reviewed and rated.
October 9, 2026 — Southern Applications reviewed and rated.
October 13 – December 21, 2026 — Site Validation Visits.
November 30, 2026 — Reimbursements due (click link to make online payments).
December 15, 2026 — District Audit Reports due.
February 2027 — Schools notified.
April 2027 — Awards ceremony (Model Schools Gala).

Application Forms | Downloads

  Invitation Letter — Letter inviting principals of community day schools to apply for the 2026–27 MCDS Recognition Program.
 Intent to Submit — Recommended before submitting your application.

Model School Application 2026-2027:

Annual Assurance of Services Forms for Current Model Schools (MCDSs):

Schools selected as MCDSs are required to submit an Annual Assurance of Services Form to the CDE by June 30 for each of the second and third years of designation. This form certifies that the school meets or exceeds the MCDS Recognition Program standards. Links to Annual Assurance of Services Forms for current MCDSs are provided above. Forms may include either an electronic signature or typed name and must be submitted to Dan Scheme, Education Programs Consultant, High School Innovations and Initiatives Office, by email at CommunityDaySch@cde.ca.gov.

Alternately, you can download the latest application forms at CDE.

Designation Period for Current Model Community Day Schools

To verify the designation period for current model schools (MCDSs), see below.

Program Year Applied: 2023-24
Designation Began: April 2024
Designation Ends: March 2027
Program Year to Reapply to Avoid Gap Period: 2026-27

Program Year Applied: 2024-25
Designation Began: April 2025
Designation Ends: March 2028
Program Year to Reapply to Avoid Gap Period: 2027-28

Program Year Applied: 2025-26
Designation Began: April 2026
Designation Ends: March 2029
Program Year to Reapply to Avoid Gap Period: 2028-29

To avoid a gap period in your school’s MCDS designation status, current MCDSs would need to submit a new MCDS Recognition Program Application consistent with the “Program Year to Reapply to Avoid Gap Period” shown above.

A list of current MCDSs is available as part of the Model School Application above. You can also see all current Model Schools here.

Webinar Information

Webinar with CDE:

The CDE will be offering the 2026–27 Model School Application Webinar. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the respective webinar — Registration link is now closed.

Held on: Thursday, June 4, 2026, from 1:00–3:00 p.m. (PST)
Topic: 2026–27 MCDS and MCHS Application
Hosted by: CDE

Invitation Letter

Dear Community Day School Principals and District Superintendents:

I invite you to participate in the Model Community Day School (MCDS) Recognition Program co-sponsored by the California Department of Education (CDE) and the California Continuation Education Association Plus (CCEA Plus).

The MCDS Recognition Program identifies and recognizes outstanding programs. In addition to celebrating excellence, a major goal of this program is to create and maintain a resource of exemplary programs for school visitations and other forms of peer mentoring to support other community day schools to adapt successful approaches and practices of these model schools in their communities.

California’s MCDSs provide comprehensive services to students whose needs and strengths can be better met within these specialized settings using exemplary asset-based positive instructional strategies and social, emotional, and mental health and guidance and support services.

The application primarily consists of five narrative statements, addressing the following topics:

1. School Profile
2. School Management
3. Educating “The Whole Child” (Instruction)
4. Educating “The Whole Child” (Social, Emotional, and Mental Health and Development)
5. School Evaluation of Effectiveness

Each narrative statement includes several components for applicants to write to (please note that a number of the components are either new or have been revised from previous years as part of our standard updating.

The self-nomination application packet is available on the CDE’s MCDS Recognition Program web page and on the CCEA Plus Model School Recognition Program web page. The packet includes instructions for completing the application and required forms and instructions for submitting the application via the CDE exFiles File Transfer System. Applications are due on Wednesday, July 15, 2026.

The CDE will be hosting a webinar for prospective applicants. The date and time are listed below.

• Thursday, June 4, 2026, from 1:00–3:00 p.m. (PST)

Any principal interested in applying may participate. The principal may also designate someone else to attend additionally or in their place. The webinar will provide information regarding the application and the application process. To sign up for the webinar and receive the required login information, check for scheduling and details on the CDE’s MCDS Recognition Program web page.

Successful applicants will be identified through an application evaluation and site visit process. Representatives from the CDE and CCEA Plus will honor and present awards to 2026–27 MCDS Recognition Program awardees at the annual CCEA Plus State Conference.

If you have any questions regarding this program, please contact Dan Sackheim, Education Programs Consultant, High School Innovations and Initiatives Office, by phone at 916-323-2183 or by email at CommunityDaySch@cde.ca.gov.

Sincerely,

Erika F. Torres, Deputy Superintendent
Student Success and Career Readiness Branch

Important Dates to Remember

• A webinar for prospective applicants will be held on Thursday, June 4, 2026, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. (PST). Register in advance for the Model Application Webinar.
• The due date for the application is Wednesday, July 15, 2026. If this presents a challenge, please reach out to discuss possible accommodations.

Last updated: June 03, 2026

The post Model School Application 2025 – 2026 (Community Day) appeared first on CCEA Plus - California Continuation Education Association Plus.

We invite all continuation high schools in the state to submit an application to become a “Model School” for the 2026-2027 school year.

The Model Continuation High School (MCHS) Recognition Program is co-sponsored by the California Department of Education (CDE) and the California Continuation Education Association Plus (CCEA Plus). Continuation high schools provide comprehensive services to at-risk youth through the use of exemplary instructional strategies, flexible scheduling, and guidance and counseling services. The CDE encourages continuation high schools that meet the eligibility criteria to submit an application to the MCHS Recognition Program.

Intent to Submit:

CCEA Plus recommends that all schools that intend to submit an application begin by filling out this simple “Intent to Submit” Survey online here. Submission of the survey does not obligate the school to submit an application, but it will help us to assist you in the process.

Application Deadline: July 15, 2026

Applications must be submitted to the CDE electronically as a single PDF via the CDE exFiles File Transfer System (see application for specific instructions). Applications must be received by no later than 4 p.m. on Wednesday, July 15, 2026. If this date presents a challenge, please reach out to the contact below in advance to discuss possible accommodations.

Program Contact:

Dan Sackheim, Education Programs Consultant, High School Innovations and Initiatives Office
Office: Educational Options, CDE
Email: ContinuationEduc@cde.ca.gov
Phone: 916-323-2183

Timeline

June 1, 2026 — Applications available to the field.
June 4, 2026 — Application Webinar.
July 14, 2026 — Intent to Submit Survey suggested to be sent before application deadline.
July 15, 2026 — Applications must be received by 4 p.m.
September 11, 2026 — Northern Applications reviewed and rated.
September 25, 2026 — Central Applications reviewed and rated.
October 9, 2026 — Southern Applications reviewed and rated.
October 13 – December 21, 2026 — Site Validation Visits.
November 30, 2026 — Reimbursements due (click link to make online payments).
December 15, 2026 — District Audit Reports due.
February 2027 — Schools notified.
April 2027 — Awards ceremony (Model Schools Gala).

Application Forms | Downloads

  Invitation Letter — Letter inviting principals of continuation high schools to apply for the 2026–27 MCHS Recognition Program.
 Intent to Submit — Recommended before submitting your application.

Model School Application 2026-2027:

Annual Assurance of Services Forms for Current Model Schools (MCHSs):

Schools selected as MCHSs are required to submit an Annual Assurance of Services Form to the CDE by June 30 for each of the second and third years of designation. This form certifies that the school meets or exceeds the MCHS Recognition Program standards. Links to Annual Assurance of Services Forms for current MCHSs are provided above. Forms may include either an electronic signature or typed name and must be submitted to Dan Sackheim, Education Programs Consultant, High School Innovations and Initiatives Office, by email at ContinuationEduc@cde.ca.gov.

Alternately, you can download the latest application forms at CDE.

Designation Period for Current Model Continuation High Schools

To verify the designation period for current model schools (MCHSs), see below.

Program Year Applied: 2023-24
Designation Began: April 2024
Designation Ends: March 2027
Program Year to Reapply to Avoid Gap Period: 2026-27

Program Year Applied: 2024-25
Designation Began: April 2025
Designation Ends: March 2028
Program Year to Reapply to Avoid Gap Period: 2027-28

Program Year Applied: 2025-26
Designation Began: April 2026
Designation Ends: March 2029
Program Year to Reapply to Avoid Gap Period: 2028-29

To avoid a gap period in your school’s MCHS designation status, current MCHSs would need to submit a new MCHS Recognition Program Application consistent with the “Program Year to Reapply to Avoid Gap Period” shown above.

A list of current MCHSs is available as part of the Model School Application above. You can also see all current Model Schools here.

Webinar Information

Webinar with CDE:

The CDE will be offering the 2026–27 Model School Application Webinar. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the respective webinar — Registration link is now closed.

Held on: Thursday, June 4, 2026, from 1:00–3:00 p.m. (PST)
Topic: 2026–27 MCDS and MCHS Application
Hosted by: CDE

Invitation Letter

Dear Continuation High School Principals and District Superintendents:

I invite you to participate in the Model Continuation High School (MCHS) Recognition Program co-sponsored by the California Department of Education (CDE) and the California Continuation Education Association Plus (CCEA Plus).

The MCHS Recognition Program identifies and recognizes outstanding programs. In addition to celebrating excellence, a major goal of this program is to create and maintain a resource of exemplary programs for school visitations and other forms of peer mentoring to support other continuation high schools to adapt successful approaches and practices of these model schools in their communities. California’s MCHSs provide comprehensive services to students whose needs and strengths can be better met within these specialized settings using exemplary asset-based positive instructional strategies and social, emotional, and mental health and guidance and support services.

The application primarily consists of five narrative statements, addressing the following topics:

1. School Profile
2. School Management
3. Educating “The Whole Child” (Instruction)
4. Educating “The Whole Child” (Social, Emotional, and Mental Health and Development)
5. School Evaluation of Effectiveness

Each narrative statement includes several components for applicants to write to (please note that a number of the components are either new or have been revised from previous years as part of our standard updating.)

The self-nomination application packet is available on the CDE’s MCHS Recognition Program web page and on the CCEA Plus Model School Recognition Program web page. The packet includes instructions for completing the application and required forms and instructions for submitting the application via the CDE exFiles File Transfer System. Applications are due on Wednesday, July 15, 2026.

The CDE will be hosting a webinar for prospective applicants. The date and time are listed below.

• Thursday, June 4, 2026, from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. (PST)

Any principal interested in applying may participate. The principal may also designate someone else to attend additionally or in their place. The webinar will provide information regarding the application and the application process. To sign up for the webinar and receive the required login information, check for scheduling and details on the CDE’s MCHS Recognition Program web page.

Successful applicants will be identified through an application evaluation and site visit process. Representatives from the CDE and CCEA Plus will honor and present awards to 2026–27 MCHS Recognition Program awardees at the annual CCEA Plus State Conference.

If you have any questions regarding this program, please contact Dan Sackheim, Education Programs Consultant, High School Innovations and Initiatives Office, by phone at 916-323-2183 or by email at ContinuationEduc@cde.ca.gov.

Sincerely,

Erika F. Torres, Deputy Superintendent
Student Success and Career Readiness Branch

Important Dates to Remember

• A webinar for prospective applicants will be held on Thursday, June 4, 2026, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. (PST). Register in advance for the Model School Application Webinar.
• The due date for the application is Wednesday, July 15, 2026. If this presents a challenge, please reach out to discuss possible accommodations.

Last updated: June 02, 2026

The post Model School Application 2026 – 2027 (Continuation) appeared first on CCEA Plus - California Continuation Education Association Plus.

Quick links to each event:

• Thursday: Morning Registration
• Thursday: Featured Schools Visit Trip
• Thursday: Meet and Greet Party
• Friday: Keynote Breakfast
• Friday: Breakout Sessions
• Friday: Drum Circle
• Friday: Professional Awards Dinner
• Saturday: Model School Awards Gala
• Weekend: Expo, Attendees and Exhibitor Tables
• Weekend: Student Art Showcase

Videos from Conference seminars and events: watch videos (member login required)

Click to view photos larger.

Morning Registration

Date of event: Thursday, April 30, 2026 (morning)
Hosted by: CCEA Plus
Location: Los Angeles Marriott Burbank Airport Hotel & Convention Center

Back to top

Featured Schools Visit Trip 2026

Date of event: Thursday, April 30, 2026 (daytime)
Hosted by: Featured Schools
Schools: (Bus 3 only) — Daily High School & Will Rogers

Back to top

Meet and Greet Party 2026

Date of event: Thursday, April 30, 2026 (evening)
Hosted by: CCEA Plus
Location: Los Angeles Marriott Burbank Airport Hotel & Convention Center

Back to top

Keynote Breakfast 2026

Date of event: Friday, May 1, 2026 (morning)
Featured: Keynote Speaker
Hosted by: CCEA Plus
Location: Los Angeles Marriott Burbank Airport Hotel & Convention Center

Back to top

Breakout Sessions 2026

Date of event: Friday, May 1, 2026
Featured: Conference seminars and Exemplary Programs presentations
Hosted by: CCEA Plus
Location: Los Angeles Marriott Burbank Airport Hotel & Convention Center

Back to top

Drum Circle

Date of event: Friday, May 1, 2026 (afternoon)
Featured: A Participatory Example of Positive Alternatives to Negative Behavior
Hosted by: CCEA Plus & Dan Sackheim — CDE Ambassador
Location: Los Angeles Marriott Burbank Airport Hotel & Convention Center

Back to top

Professional Awards Dinner 2026

Date of event: Friday, May 1, 2026 (evening)
Featured: Professional Awards & Exemplary Programs selected in 2026
Hosted by: CCEA Plus
Location: Los Angeles Marriott Burbank Airport Hotel & Convention Center

Back to top

Model School Awards Gala 2026

Date of event: Saturday, May 2, 2026 (evening)
Honorees of the night: newly designated California Model Schools for 2026
Hosted by: CCEA Plus, with representation from the California Department of Education (CDE)
Location of ceremony: Gene Autry Museum, Los Angeles, CA

Back to top

Expo, Attendees and Exhibitor Tables 2026

Date of event: April 30 – May 3, 2026
Hosted by: CCEA Plus, sponsors and exhibitors
Location: Los Angeles Marriott Burbank Airport Hotel & Convention Center

Back to top

Student Art Showcase 2026

Date of event: April 30 – May 3, 2026
Hosted by: CCEA Plus
Location: Los Angeles Marriott Burbank Airport Hotel & Convention Center

Back to top

Photo credits: Kristofer Reynolds Photography in San Diego, CA. Phone: (407) 403-4271. Find on: Facebook | Instagram Kristofer Reynolds | Twitter @KRPhotoINC

The post Photos: Conference 2026 appeared first on CCEA Plus - California Continuation Education Association Plus.

April 30 – May 3, 2026

“Blazing New Trails: Innovation in Alternative Education”

Hosted in Los Angeles, California:

Los Angeles Marriott Burbank Airport Hotel & Convention Center : 2500 North Hollywood Way, Burbank, CA 91505 | Online booking is recommended: Reservation link for CCEA+ (special group block is no longer available) | To book by phone: 1-800-228-9290 (see booking notes below) | Special booking notes | About venue & map | Download flyer (PDF)

Use this button if you are logged in as an active member:
Register CCEA+ Member

Group Registration — use this link to sign up multiple attendees in one purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions — find easy steps and answers.

Conference Registration

Registration (Non-Active Member) — $899.00
3-day Conference registration | Includes select meals and badge for access
Includes CCEA Professional membership (required to attend)

Active Member — $819.00
3-day Conference registration | Includes select meals and badge for access

Retired Active Member — $599.00 online only
3-day Conference registration | Includes select meals and badge for access 

Conference Add-ons

Featured School Visits & Bus Trips | Thursday | Get Details & Sign Up
Attendees — $199.00 | Online purchase only before 2/1/26: $175 (available only at link above)  Limited seating

Professional Awards Dinner | Friday | Get Tickets & Tables
Ticket — $125.00 | With Conference registration: $75.00
Table for 10 — $1,200.00

Model Schools Gala Dinner | Saturday | Get Tickets & Tables
Ticket — $135.00 | With Conference registration: $85.00  Limited seating
Table for 10 — $1,300.00 

Vendor Packages | Friday & Saturday | Purchase Options
Display Tables, Ads and Promotions — $999.00 and up

To purchase add-on options, visit the main registration page and add each additional option to your cart.  You can reserve more tables, tickets, and displays using the “quantity” box just above the “Add to cart” button.

Important Event Notes

Click to open each note below:

About the Conference

Click to open each note below:

Conference Schedule and Speakers

Find the latest, full Conference schedule and attendee notes posted here — Full schedule, speakers, and app instructions

Attendees: There will be a new interactive schedule app for 2026 (called “Whova”). Visit this link for more detailed instructions. You can use the app to set your schedule, select your seminars, read about speakers and exhibitors, share your bio, and interact with everyone. Please check this link first if you have questions about Check-in, badges and using the app.

Tentative Schedule (for quick reference only) — actual full schedule at the link above!

Tentative Schedule Outline (updated Oct. 2025) — actual full schedule at the link above!

• Thursday, April 30, 2026
  • 7:00am – 8:30am | Model School Visit Trip Check-in
  • 8:30am – 4pm | Model School Visit Trip (bus departs 8:30am)
  • 5:00pm – 7:00pm | Conference early Check-in begins
  • 6:30pm – 9:30pm | Meet and Greet Social (party and reception)
• Friday, May 1, 2026
  • 7:00am – 10:00am | Registration and Check-in
  • 7:45am – 9:00am | Conference Opening & General Session: Welcome and Introductions
  • 9:15am – 4:15pm | Breakout Sessions, Seminars and Workshops
  • 6:30pm | Professional Awards Dinner
• Saturday, May 2, 2026
  • 7:00am – 8:30am | Check-in and Breakfast
  • 8:30am – 3:45pm | Breakout Sessions, Seminars and Workshops
  • 5:30pm | Bus Transportation begins for the Model School Gala
  • 6:30pm | President’s Reception at the Gala
  • 7:00pm | Model Schools Gala Awards Ceremony and Dinner
• Sunday, May 3, 2026
  • 7:00am – 8:30am | Buffet breakfast
  • 9:00am | CCEA+ members meeting
  • 10:00am | Special events to be announced
  • 12:00pm | Conference Closing

Theme & Dress-Up Days

Dress Up Days: We’ll have a theme for each day of the Conference. See our style guide here:

Thursday Party

Meet and Greet Social: Celebrate with us — food, fun and fellowship on Thursday, April 30th at the Marriott Los Angeles Burbank (Conference venue) from 6:30pm – 9:30pm. DJ and line dancing. Raffles and games. No host bar. Wear your favorite western attire. Free for Conference attendees!

Download flyer (PDF)

Get Social

Get Social: there will be an interactive schedule app announced in April for Conference attendees.  In the meantime, you can post and connect on social media.  Here’s how to find and tag us!

Instagram = @CCEAPlus
X/Twitter = @CCEAeducation
Facebook = Group

Professional Awards Dinner

Professional Awards and Exemplary Programs Dinner: Friday, May 1st @ Los Angeles Marriott Burbank (Conference venue address above). Awards include Exemplary Programs, Superintendent of the Year, Administrator of the Year, Teacher of the Year, Officer of the Year, Classified Employee of the Year, Counselor or Support Person of the Year, and our Student Essay winners. Exemplary Programs will be featured. Professional awards and the exemplary programs showcase will be presented in person, for the 2025-2026 school year. Dinner with a speaker, special guests, awards for personnel, essays, student art, Region Basket, Vendor’s Raffle/Auction Prizes. Start at 6:30pm. Book by 4/20/26; after that, tickets will only be available by credit card on site. Get Tickets & Event Details

Model Schools Awards Gala

Model Schools Awards Gala: Saturday, May 2nd @ Autry Museum of the American West. At the Gala dinner, newly-selected Model Schools for 2026 will be awarded and recognized in person. Attire is evening casual. Tentative schedule: busing from the hotel to the gala starts as early as 5pm; President’s reception 6pm; dinner at 7pm, with the awards ceremony to follow. Book by 4/20/26. Seating is limited this year. Venue address: 4700 Western Heritage Way, Los Angeles, CA 90027 (in Griffith Park across from the Los Angeles Zoo). Get Tickets & Event Details

Photo from the Autry Museum website, used with permission for our event. 

Featured School Visits & Bus Trips

Featured School Visits & Bus Trips: choose from two bus trip options. Sign up is a separate add-on. Get Details & Sign Up

Trip option #1: featured school visits — see alternative education schools in action, on a guided tour. Date: Thursday, April 30, 2026. Includes school visits, lunch and bus transportation. Destinations to be visited may change depending on number of attendees and the schools. Transportation to and from the Conference venue is provided. Pickup will be at the Conference hotel venue at 8am, leaving at 8:30am, with the trip ending no later than 5pm.

Trip option #2: Getty Museum visit (CANCELLED: all participants will be transferred to Trip #1 automatically) — see the famous museum and grounds at the Getty Center in Los Angeles with our group. Date: Thursday, April 30, 2026. Includes lunch and bus transportation. Transportation to and from the Conference venue is provided. Pickup will be at the Conference hotel venue at 8am, leaving at 8:30am, with the trip ending some time between 4-5pm.

Bus trips are not included with Conference registration, and requires separate sign-up. Space is limited, please register early.

Exhibitors and Vendors

Exhibitor / Vendor Packages: reserve a vendor display table, select specialized advertising options (in print and online) and more at the CCEA Plus Conference. Participate in the raffle/auction and get special access. Reach an amazing audience of educators, administrators and education professionals across the state of California. We have great options to bring your team and participate during the Conference. Get Details & Sign Up

Keynote Speakers

Keynote Speakers: see the full schedule to search speakers and exhibitors.

Student Art Show

Student Art Show: we host a student art display each year in one of the main areas of the Conference. Consider including your students’ art. To include your students’ artwork in the display, Learn more

Student Design Contest

Student Design Contest: submit your student entries to design the Conference program cover art. Deadline 3/15/26. This year’s theme “Blazing New Trails: Innovation in Alternative Education”. Learn more

Student Essay Contest

Student Essay Contest: enter your top student’s essay. Each school may submit up to two essays, one from a Senior and one from a Junior. The top six essays will be recognized. The top three will receive awards and recognition at our annual CCEA Plus conference. Deadline 3/15/26. Learn more

Call for Presenters

Call for Presenters: if you are interested in joining us as a speaker, presenter, or have a seminar in mind for the Conference, please Apply here. We are always seeking content area speakers and exemplary programs to share with our attendees. Conference registration is required.

To Pay by Purchase Order or Check

Purchase orders (PO) payment is required in advance of the event for all attendees and dinner guests, in order to process badges, meals and seminars — by April 3rd to be in time for badge printing, but no later than 4/10/26. We require our online Purchase Order Request Form to be completed in advance. *Discounted pricing is not available for purchase orders or offline payments.

Each registration is $899.00 per person using this method without any addons. An additional processing fee is required. Registrations can only be processed once actual payment is received (required in advance of event). Active members can only receive member discounts online.

PURCHASE ORDER FORM

About the Venue and Map

Los Angeles Marriott Burbank Airport Hotel & Convention Center

---

Nearby Features:

• Disneyland
• Universal Studios

• Hollywood
• Griffith Observatory

• Santa Monica Pier
• LA Zoo & Botanical Gardens

---

“The Los Angeles Marriott Burbank Airport welcomes you with spacious rooms, modern amenities and a prime Southern California location. Situated in Burbank, CA, our hotel places you near the Hollywood Burbank Airport, Universal Studios Hollywood, the North Hollywood Arts District and Burbank Town Center. Make time for a delicious meal at one of our restaurants, offering innovative California cuisine and specialty cocktails. Maintain your workout at our 24-hour fitness center or take a refreshing dip in our outdoor pools. If you’re hosting a meeting in Burbank, choose from over 46,000 square feet of event space, as well as access to additional convention facilities. Recharge in modern, pet-friendly hotel rooms with plush bedding, mini-refrigerators, flat-screen TVs, large work desks and Wi-Fi. Reserve your stay in a concierge-level room for lounge access and free breakfast. As a proud partner in the Marriott Commitment to Clean, our hotel has redefined our cleaning standards and commits to focusing on health.”

View Map on Google

The post CCEA Plus Conference 2026 appeared first on CCEA Plus - California Continuation Education Association Plus.

We invite all community day schools in the state to submit an application to become a “Model School” for 2025-2026, co-sponsored by the California Department of Education (CDE).

The Model Community Day School (MCDS) Recognition Program will identify and recognize outstanding community day schools and will create a resource list of exemplary programs for school visitations and mentoring. The MCDS Recognition Program is sponsored by the California Department of Education (CDE) in collaboration with the California Continuation Education Association Plus.

Community day schools serve and support high-risk youths, including those referred by expulsion, probation, a School Attendance Review Board or other district level referral process. They provide challenging academic curriculum and develop pro-social skills and resiliency. The CDE encourages community day schools to submit an application to the MCDS Recognition Program.

Intent to Submit Deadline: June 30, 2025

Principals who intend to submit an application must complete the MCDS Application “Intent to Submit” Survey online here. The survey will close on May 30, 2025 June 30, 2025, at 4 p.m. Please note: the deadline for intent has been extended by CDE after the application was published. Submission of the survey does not obligate the principal to submit an application.

Application Deadline: July 16, 2025

Applications must be submitted to the CDE electronically as a single PDF via the CDE exFiles File Transfer System (see application for specific instructions). Applications must be received by no later than 4 p.m. on Wednesday, July 16, 2025.

Program Contact: Educational Options Office, CDE
Email: CommunityDayScl@cde.ca.gov
Phone: 916-323-2183

Timeline

April 3, 2025 — Applications available to the field.
April 9, 2025 — Application Webinar (#1).
May 22, 2025 — Application Webinar (#2).
June 30, 2025 — Intent to Submit Survey to be completed.
July 16, 2025 — Applications due.
October 4, 2025 — Applications reviewed and rated.
October 6, 2025 – December 22, 2025 — Site Validation Visits.
October 31, 2025 — Application fees due (click link to make payment).
December 15, 2025 — District Audit Reports due.
February 2026 — Schools notified.
April 2026 — Awards ceremony (Model Schools Gala).

Please note: it is strongly recommended that all schools process payments online rather than by mail to meet the deadline. You can now pay the Model School Applicant School Review and Evaluation fee online here.

Application Forms | Downloads

  Invitation Letter — Letter inviting principals of community day schools to apply for the 2025–26 MCDS Recognition Program.
 Intent to Submit — Online form will close on Monday, June 30, 2025, at 4 p.m.

Model School Application 2025-2026:

Annual Assurance of Services Forms for Current Model Schools (MCDSs):

Schools selected as MCDSs agree to submit an Annual Assurance of Services Form by June 30 for each of the second and third years of designation. The Annual Assurance of Services Form certifies that the school meets or exceeds the MCDS Recognition Program standards as described in the 2025–26 application. If the applicant school is selected as an MCDS in 2026, you may obtain a copy of the form from the CDE MCDS Recognition Program web page and retain it for your records. Complete the form and submit it to the CDE. A reminder email will be sent to principals and district superintendents in mid-April 2027 and 2028. The Annual Assurance of Services Form should include electronic signatures or typed names. Submission instructions are provided on the form.

Alternately, you can download the latest application forms at CDE.

Designation Period

Model Schools retain their award status for three years. The first MCDS awardees were selected in 2023 and announced in 2024. To avoid a gap period in your school’s MCDS designation status, new MCDSs would need to submit a new application in late summer / early spring 2026 for the 2027-2028 program year.

Webinar Information

Second webinar with CDE:

Held on: Thursday, May 22, 2025
Topic: 2025–26 MCDS and Model Continuation High School (MCHS) Application
Hosted by: CDE

Download the first 2025–26 Model School Application Webinar Slides: PowerPoint Format (.pptx) | PDF Format (.pdf)

From CDE: “The second webinar held on May 22, 2025, provided an overview of the 2025–26 MCDS and Model Continuation High School (MCHS) Application and how to complete and process each application. The webinar also pointed out items that have disqualified applicants in previous years.”

First webinar with CDE:

Held on: April 9, 2025
Topic: 2025–26 Model Continuation High School (MCHS) and MCDS Application
Hosted by: CDE

Download the second 2025–26 Model School Application Webinar Slides: PowerPoint Format (.pptx) | PDF Format (.pdf)

From CDE: “The webinar held on April 9, 2025, provided an overview of the 2025–26 MCHS and Model Community Day School (MCDS) Application and how to complete and process each application. The webinar also pointed out items that have disqualified applicants in previous years. The slides outline the process and requirements to apply for the 2025-26 Model Continuation High School and Model Community Day School recognition programs.”

Invitation Letter

Dear Community Day School Principals and District Superintendents:

I invite you to participate in the Model Community Day School (MCDS) Recognition Program sponsored by the California Department of Education (CDE) in collaboration with the California Continuation Education Association Plus (CCEA Plus).

The MCDS Recognition Program identifies and recognizes outstanding programs. In addition to celebrating excellence, a major goal of this program is to create and maintain a resource of exemplary programs for school visitations and other forms of peer mentoring to support other community day schools to adapt successful approaches and practices of these model schools in their communities.

California’s MCDSs provide comprehensive services to students whose needs and strengths can be better met within these specialized settings using exemplary asset-based positive instructional strategies and social, emotional, and mental health and guidance and support services.

The application primarily consists of five narrative statements, addressing the following topics:

1. School Profile
2. School Management
3. Educating “This Whole Child” (Instruction)
4. Educating “This Whole Child” (Social, Emotional, and Mental Health and Development)
5. School Evaluation of Effectiveness

Principals who intend to submit an application must complete the Intent to Submit form online in order to be considered for model school status. The online form will close on Friday, May 30, 2025 Monday, June 30, 2025, at 4 p.m. Submission of the online form does not obligate the principal to submit an application.

The self-nomination application packet is available on the CDE’s MCDS Recognition Program web page and on the CCEA Plus Model School Recognition Program web page. The packet includes instructions for completing the application and required forms and instructions for submitting the application via the CDE exFiles File Transfer System. Applications are due on Wednesday, July 16, 2025.

The CDE will be hosting a webinar on April 9, 2025, for prospective applicants. Any principal interested in applying may participate. The principal may also designate someone else to attend in their place. The webinar will provide information regarding the application and the application process. To sign up for the webinar and receive the required login information, check for scheduling and details on the CDE’s MCDS Recognition Program web page.

Successful applicants will be identified through an application evaluation and site visit process. Representatives from the CDE and CCEA Plus will honor and present awards to 2025–26 MCDS Recognition Program awardees at the annual CCEA Plus State Conference.

If you have any questions regarding this program, please contact Dan Sackheim, Education Programs Consultant, Educational Options Office, by phone at 916-323-2183 or by email at CommunityDaySch@cde.ca.gov.

Sincerely,

Richard Barrera, Senior Policy Advisor
Superintendent’s Initiatives Office

Important Dates to Remember

• An application webinar will be held on April 9, 2025 for prospective applicants, with a second webinar scheduled on May 22, 2025. 
• The Intent to Submit online form must be submitted by 4 p.m. on Monday, June 30, 2025 (extended by CDE from the original deadline May 30, 2025).
• A single PDF of the completed application must be submitted to the CDE via the exFiles Transfer System. Applications must be received by 4 p.m. on Wednesday, July 16, 2025.

Please see the invitation letter above from Richard Barrera, Senior Policy Advisor, for further details. If you have any questions regarding this program, please contact Dan Sackheim, Education Programs Consultant, Educational Options Office, by phone at 916-323-2183 or by email at CommunityDaySch@cde.ca.gov.

Deadline requirement: Any applications that are not received by the July 16, 2025, deadline will be disqualified. Corrections may only be made to applications that are received by the July 16, 2025, deadline.

Last updated: March 20, 2026

The post Model School Application 2025 – 2026 (Community Day) appeared first on CCEA Plus - California Continuation Education Association Plus.

We invite all continuation high schools in the state to submit an application to become a “Model School” for 2025-2026, co-sponsored by the California Department of Education (CDE).

The Model Continuation High School (MCHS) Recognition Program identifies and recognizes outstanding programs and creates a resource list of quality programs for school visitations. These schools provide comprehensive services to at-risk youth through the use of exemplary instructional strategies, flexible scheduling, and guidance and counseling services. The CDE encourages continuation high schools that meet the eligibility criteria to submit an application.

Intent to Submit Deadline: June 30, 2025

Principals who intend to submit an application must complete the MCHS Application “Intent to Submit” Survey online here. The survey will close on May 30, 2025 June 30, 2025, at 4 p.m. Please note: the deadline for intent has been extended by CDE after the application was published. Submission of the survey does not obligate the principal to submit an application.

Application Deadline: July 16, 2025

Applications must be submitted to the CDE electronically as a single PDF via the CDE exFiles File Transfer System. (See application for specific instructions.) Applications must be received by no later than 4 p.m. on Wednesday, July 16, 2025. The CDE will perform an initial review of applications. This will allow participants to ensure that the single PDF submitted in the exFiles File Transfer System is complete and has been uploaded properly. Corrected applications are due for final submission to the CDE by 4 p.m. on Wednesday, July 16, 2025.

Program Contact: Dan Sackheim, Educational Options Office, CDE
Email: CONTINUATIONEDUC@cde.ca.gov
Phone: 916-445-5595

Timeline

April 3, 2025 — Applications available to the field.
April 9, 2025 — Application Webinar (#1).
May 22, 2025 — Application Webinar (#2).
June 30, 2025 — Intent to Submit Survey to be completed.
July 16, 2025 — Applications due.
July 16, 2025 — Applications corrected per screening due.
September 5, 2025 — Central Applications reviewed and rated.
September 19, 2025 — Northern Applications reviewed and rated.
October 3, 2025 — Southern Applications reviewed and rated.
October 6, 2025 – December 22, 2025 — Site Validation Visits.
October 31, 2025 — Application fees due (click link to make payment).
December 15, 2025 — District Audit Reports due.
February 2026 — Schools notified.
April 2026 — Awards ceremony (Model Schools Gala).

Please note: it is strongly recommended that all schools process payments online rather than by mail to meet the deadline. You can now pay the Model School Applicant School Review and Evaluation fee online here.

Application Forms | Downloads

  Invitation Letter — Letter inviting principals of continuation high schools to apply for the 2025–26 MCHS Recognition Program.
 Intent to Submit — Online form will close on Monday, June 30, 2025, at 4 p.m.

Model School Application 2025-2026:

Annual Assurance of Services Forms for Current Model Schools (MCHSs):

Schools selected as MCHSs are required to submit an Annual Assurance of Services Form to the CDE by June 30 for each of the second and third years of designation (see designation periods below). This form certifies that the school meets or exceeds the MCHS Recognition Program standards. Links to Annual Assurance of Services Forms for current MCHSs are provided above. Forms may include either an electronic signature or typed name and must be submitted to Dan Sackheim, Education Programs Consultant, Educational Options Office, by email at CONTINUATIONEDUC@cde.ca.gov.

From CDE, for current Model Schools: As a condition of continuing eligibility for designation by the California Department of Education (CDE) as a Model Continuation High School (MCHS), a completed Annual Assurance of Services Form must be submitted to the CDE by June 30, 2025, for schools selected in 2023 or 2024. On an additional sheet of paper, describe any changes that have occurred in the past year that could affect the status of your school as an MCHS. For example, describe whether the enrollment has increased or decreased. If enrollment has changed, describe how staffing has changed to maintain a low student-teacher ratio. If no changes have occurred, you are welcome to attach a statement describing any future developments related to student engagement and community collaboration. Your completed Annual Assurance of Services Form and any supporting documents (e.g., a description of changes or a “no change” statement), must be submitted by the deadline.

Alternately, you can download the latest application forms at CDE.

Designation Period for Current Model Continuation High Schools

To verify the designation period for current model schools (MCHSs), see below.

Program Year Applied: 2021-22
Designation Began: April 2022
Designation Ends: March 2025
Program Year to Reapply to Avoid Gap Period: 2024-25

Program Year Applied: 2022-23
Designation Began: April 2023
Designation Ends: March 2026
Program Year to Reapply to Avoid Gap Period: 2025-26

Program Year Applied: 2023-24
Designation Began: April 2024
Designation Ends: March 2027
Program Year to Reapply to Avoid Gap Period: 2026-27

To avoid a gap period in your school’s MCHS designation status, current MCHSs would need to submit a new MCHS Recognition Program Application consistent with the “Program Year to Reapply to Avoid Gap Period” shown above.

A list of current MCHSs is available as part of the 2025–26 Model School Application above. You can also see all current Model Schools here.

Webinar Information

Second webinar with CDE:

Held on: Thursday, May 22, 2025
Topic: 2025–26 MCDS and Model Continuation High School (MCHS) Application
Hosted by: CDE

Download the second 2025–26 Model School Application Webinar Slides: PowerPoint Format (.pptx) | PDF Format (.pdf)

From CDE: “The second webinar held on May 22, 2025, provided an overview of the 2025–26 Model Community Day School (MCDS) and MCHS Application and how to complete and process each application. The webinar also pointed out items that have disqualified applicants in previous years.”

First webinar with CDE:

Held on: April 9, 2025
Topic: 2025–26 Model Continuation High School (MCHS) and MCDS Application
Hosted by: CDE

Download the first 2025–26 Model School Application Webinar Slides: PowerPoint Format (.pptx) | PDF Format (.pdf)

From CDE: “The webinar held on April 9, 2025, provided an overview of the 2025–26 MCHS and Model Community Day School (MCDS) Application and how to complete and process each application. The webinar also pointed out items that have disqualified applicants in previous years. The slides outline the process and requirements to apply for the 2025-26 Model Continuation High School and Model Community Day School recognition programs.”

Invitation Letter

Dear Continuation Education High School Principals and District Superintendents:

I invite you to participate in the Model Continuation High School (MCHS) Recognition Program sponsored by the California Department of Education (CDE) in collaboration with the California Continuation Education Association Plus (CCEA Plus).

The MCHS Recognition Program identifies and recognizes outstanding programs. In addition to celebrating excellence, a major goal of this program is to create and maintain a resource of exemplary programs for school visitations and other forms of peer mentoring to support other continuation high schools to adapt successful approaches and practices of these model schools in their communities.

California’s MCHSs provide comprehensive services to students whose needs and strengths can be better met within these specialized settings using exemplary asset-based positive instructional strategies and social, emotional, and mental health and guidance and support services.

The application primarily consists of five narrative statements, addressing the following topics:

1. School Profile
2. School Management
3. Educating “This Whole Child” (Instruction)
4. Educating “This Whole Child” (Social, Emotional, and Mental Health and Development)
5. School Evaluation of Effectiveness

Principals who intend to submit an application must complete the Intent to Submit form online in order to be considered for model school status. The online form will close on Friday, May 30, 2025 Monday, June 30, 2025, at 4 p.m. Submission of the online form does not obligate the principal to submit an application.

The self-nomination application packet is available on the CDE’s MCHS Recognition Program web page and on the CCEA Plus Model School Recognition Program web page. The packet includes instructions for completing the application and required forms, reference materials, and instructions for submitting the application via the CDE exFiles File Transfer System. Applications are due to the CDE by 4 p.m. on Wednesday, July 16, 2025.

The application due date was adjusted from previous years to allow for the following:

1. Applicants to obtain guidance in completing the application by attending the review session at the CCEA Plus Conference
2. Provide additional time for CCEA Plus to recruit readers, increase the time allotted for Site Validation Visits, and include a third reading session for Central California applicants

The CDE will be hosting a webinar on April 9, 2025, for prospective applicants. Any principal interested in applying may participate. The principal may also designate someone else to attend in their place. The webinar will provide information regarding the application and the application process. To sign up for the webinar and receive the required login information, check for scheduling and details on the CDE’s MCHS Recognition Program web page at https://www.cde.ca.gov/ta/sr/mc/.

Successful applicants will be identified through an application evaluation and site visit process. Representatives from the CDE and CCEA Plus will honor and present awards to 2025–26 MCHS Recognition Program awardees at the annual CCEA Plus State Conference.

If you have any questions regarding this program, please contact Dan Sackheim, Education Programs Consultant, Educational Options Office, by phone at 916-323-2183 or by email at ContinuationEduc@cde.ca.gov.

Sincerely,

Richard Barrera, Senior Policy Advisor
Superintendent’s Initiatives Office

Important Dates to Remember

• A webinar will be held on April 9, 2025 for prospective applicants, with a second webinar scheduled on May 22, 2025.
• The Intent to Submit online form must be submitted by 4 p.m. on Monday, June 30, 2025 (extended by CDE from the original deadline May 30, 2025).
• A single PDF of the completed application must be submitted to the CDE via the exFiles Transfer System. Applications must be received by 4 p.m. on Wednesday, July 16, 2025.
• In accordance with the application screening process, if corrections are made, submit a revised single PDF of the application to the CDE via the exFiles File Transfer System. Corrected applications must be received by 4 p.m. on Wednesday, July 16, 2025.

Deadline requirement: Any applications that are not received by the July 16, 2025, deadline will be disqualified. Corrections may only be made to applications that are received by the July 16, 2025, deadline.

Last updated: April 16, 2026

The post Model School Application 2025 – 2026 (Continuation) appeared first on CCEA Plus - California Continuation Education Association Plus.