Overview
Black Diamond High
Black Diamond High is the alternative high school for the Pittsburg Unified School District. It serves students who are 16 to 18 years of age and who are behind in credits. The program delivers a standards-based education, using the same instructional materials as are used at Pittsburg High School. However, small class size (no more than 20 students per class), a supportive environment, a focus on the importance of attendance, an intervention program, and a welcoming family-like atmosphere provide students with an opportunity to refocus themselves, earn credits, and receive a high school diploma. Students are enrolled in four classes initially, but can add more, especially during their senior year, in order to reach the 220 credits needed for graduation. Counselors and teachers work with students to help them develop a plan to earn needed credits for graduation and to provide them with information on programs and opportunities after high school.
Pittsburg Independent Learning Center (PILC)
Pittsburg Independent Learning Center serves students in grades 6 through 12. It is the independent study program for the Pittsburg Unified School District and provides students and families with a learning environment independent of the regular, classroom based school program. It is designed to provide students who cannot attend school on a regular basis for medical, familial, or other reasons with an opportunity to receive an education. At the 6th through 12th grade levels students are expected to be able to operate independently in preparing homework and studying on their own. This program is for students who are already independent learners. The teacher meets with each student one hour a week and corrects work and provides minimal instruction for the following week’s work. Students are able to drop in to receive additional help as needed. High school graduates may receive a diploma from Riverside High or Pittsburg High depending upon which school is considered their home school.
Opportunity Program
The Opportunity program is available to students in grades 7 through 10 who are under the age of 16. Opportunity classes are designed for students who are unable to benefit from the regular classroom due to behavioral or attendance issues, or who are seeking a smaller educational environment. The program meets four hours a day and teaches the same standards-based curriculum offered at the junior high and high schools. Classes are limited to twenty students and classrooms are self-contained and students stay with the same teacher all day. In addition to the regular academic curriculum teachers focus on anger management and other pro-social skills.