Academics

Twain's Academic Program

Mark Twain High School offers students another chance to succeed. Twain's mission is to prepare students for their post-high-school world of careers and higher education. Twain offers programs that support the transition to college and career training.

The San Diego Unified School District Board of Education has formally adopted California State Board of Education-approved academic standards and curriculum frameworks for all subject areas. District curriculum materials, instructional strategies and supports, professional development, and student assessments are aligned with state standards and focused on ensuring that every student has access to a high-quality, rigorous, and engaging instructional program. A range of support opportunities is available for students needing additional assistance.

As a continuation school, Mark Twain High provides students with smaller class sizes, college and career pathways, individualized programs, intensive guidance services, an advisory program, and a safe atmosphere that allows them to graduate with high school diplomas or to re-enter their local comprehensive high schools.

Students may arrive at Twain deficient in the number of credits they have earned, and Twain offers several specialized programs to accommodate all students' needs, including infant centers, special education classes, and independent study courses. Twain seniors and juniors take college classes at area community colleges as part of our Middle College Program. Most are enrolled in the Joint Diploma Program. Students and community members participate in two Regional Occupational Program (ROP) strands, Business/Computers and Health Careers.

Twain has more than a dozen active business and community partnerships. There are regular opportunities for parents, students, staff, and the community to provide input regarding the direction of the school through the Site Governance Team and School Site Council. Twain is composed of three sites (Main Twain, Mesa Twain, and Morse Twain) and an independent study program, which allow students from all areas of the city to take advantage of our services.

Instruction and Curriculum

Twain's focus has been on improving the literacy and mathematical abilities of our students and preparing them with the skills necessary for post-high school success, be it college or career education. All Twain students, from special education to English learners to gifted, have detailed services available to help them meet state academic standards. Twain seniors and juniors receive support through structured advisory classes as part of their enrollment in college classes at area community colleges in the Middle College Program.

To help our students pass the California High School Exit Exam (CAHSEE), we offer preparation classes and computer programs.

Admission Requirements for California Public Universities

University of California

Admission requirements for the University of California (UC) follow guidelines set forth in the Master Plan, which requires that the top one-eighth of the state’s high school graduates, as well as those transfer students who have successfully completed specified college work, be eligible for admission to the UC. These requirements are designed to ensure that all eligible students are adequately prepared for university-level work. For general admissions requirements, please visit the University of California website.

California State University

Admission requirements for the California State University (CSU) use three factors to determine eligibility. They are specific high school courses;grades in specified courses and test scores; and graduation from high school. Some campuses have higher standards for particular majors or students who live outside the local campus area. Because of the number of students who apply, a few campuses have higher standards (supplementary admission criteria) for all applicants. Most CSU campuses utilize local admission guarantee policies for students who graduate or transfer from high schools and colleges that are historically served by a CSU campus in that region. For general admissions requirements please visit the California State University website.

Career Technical Education Programs

Career Technical Education in the San Diego Unified School District is a program of study involving a sequence of courses that integrate core academic knowledge with technical skills. The program provides students with multiple pathways to college and careers. Students complete a career pathway, which includes foundation, intermediate, and capstone (Regional Occupational Program or ROP) courses in a single, defined field of study.

The career pathways are organized around 14 different industry sectors, which have been determined to be the growth industry sectors for the local economy. Students are encouraged to complete an internship in their chosen industry sector prior to completing their senior year. CTE programs of study lead to community college credit, an industry-recognized credential, a certificate, or a degree at the postsecondary level. For more information, visit the district's College, Career and Technical Education website.