Classical Academy High School
Escondido
9-12

Welcome to Classical Academy High School

Dear Students and Families,

Thank you for your interest in Classical Academy High School (CAHS). My name is Samantha Martinez, and I am honored to serve as principal of this incredible school community.

Classical Academy High School is a tuition-free public charter school serving students in grades 9–12. At CAHS, students are known, supported, and encouraged to grow academically, personally, and socially in a positive and engaging environment.

We are proud to offer flexible learning options that allow students to personalize their educational experience while being challenged through rigorous academics and meaningful opportunities both inside and outside the classroom. Our programs are designed to help students become confident thinkers, effective communicators, and capable achievers prepared for college, career, and life.

We believe high school should be a place where students build friendships, explore interests, develop leadership skills, and create lasting memories. Our caring staff partners closely with families to ensure students feel connected, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential.

As a California Distinguished School and Gold Ribbon Award recipient, CAHS continues to be recognized for academic excellence and student success. We are also proud to have been named among the top high schools in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.

I welcome your family and am available to answer your questions and show you what makes CAHS such a special place to learn and grow.

Samantha Martinez
Principal

Program Overview

Two high school students facing the camera and smiling while in a classroom

Classical Academy High School (CAHS) offers a flexible, college-preparatory program designed to support a variety of student goals, interests, and learning styles. Through strong partnerships between families and educators, students are encouraged to grow academically, personally, and socially in a supportive learning environment.

Students can choose from a wide range of college-preparatory, Advanced Placement (AP), dual-enrollment, and elective courses in areas such as science, engineering, leadership, media, visual and performing arts, and more. Courses are designed to promote critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and real-world application of learning.

With two campuses, flexible learning options, engaging instruction, and meaningful enrichment opportunities, CAHS prepares students for success in college, career, and life.

Program Options

Photo of female students studying on computers

Classical Academy High School (CAHS) offers flexible learning options designed to meet a variety of student needs, interests, and learning styles. All CAHS programs meet UC/CSU A-G requirements and prepare students for college, career, and life beyond high school.

Students may choose from programs offered across two campuses in Escondido while participating in shared athletics, performing arts, clubs, dances, leadership opportunities, and other student activities.

Studio Campus - 207 E. Pennsylvania Ave., Escondido

Studio Program | Four Days On Campus

The Studio Program is designed for students who prefer a more traditional high school experience with structured, in-person instruction. Students attend classes on campus Tuesday through Friday and complete independent coursework on Mondays.

Teachers use a variety of instructional methods, including lectures, labs, projects, small-group collaboration, and field trips, to create engaging and rigorous learning experiences. CAHS Studio courses follow a quarter system, allowing students to focus on fewer courses at one time while engaging more deeply with the content. Many courses are accelerated, enabling students to complete a year of coursework in 18 weeks. 

Personalized Learning Campus - 130 Woodward Ave., Escondido

The Personalized Learning (PL) Campus offers flexible options for students seeking a more customized educational experience. Students may choose from on-campus workshops, virtual learning, or independent study based on their academic goals and learning preferences. The following programs are available at the PL campus:

Workshop Program | Three Days On Campus

The Workshop Program combines in-person instruction with independent learning. Students attend classes on campus Tuesday through Thursday and complete coursework independently on Mondays and Fridays, with optional teacher office hours available on Fridays.

Courses utilize a student-centered curriculum delivered through a customized learning platform. Students engage in projects, discussions, and assessments that encourage critical thinking and mastery of content standards.

Virtual Program | Online Learning

The Virtual Program provides students with a flexible online learning environment featuring both live and self-paced instruction. Credentialed teachers provide academic support, grading, virtual class sessions, and office hours throughout the week.

Students complete rigorous college-preparatory coursework aligned with UC/CSU A-G requirements while benefiting from the flexibility to learn from home. Weekly check-ins with teachers help ensure students stay connected, supported, and on track academically.

Independent Study Program | Homeschool

The Independent Study Program supports families who prefer a homeschool model with the parent serving as the primary educator. Parents select and teach curriculum with guidance from an Educational Specialist, who monitors progress and supports student learning.

Students who successfully complete program requirements receive CAHS transcript credit. While homeschool courses are not designated as UC/CSU A-G approved, many students continue on to community colleges, private universities, and out-of-state institutions.

Student Life

Every student belongs at CAHS.  Students have opportunities to explore their interests, build friendships, and become involved in a vibrant school community. Whether participating in athletics, performing arts, robotics, leadership, journalism, or student clubs, students are encouraged to discover their passions and develop new skills. Student life at CAHS includes school dances, spirit events, Academic League, student leadership opportunities, community service projects, and a variety of clubs and enrichment programs designed to help students connect and grow. What makes CAHS unique is its welcoming and supportive environment where students feel known, valued, and encouraged to try new experiences, build confidence, and create lasting memories.

Robotics

Robotics Team 

The Robotics Team provides students with hands-on experience in engineering, design, programming, and real-world problem-solving. Students work alongside an advisor and mentors to design, build, and program robotics projects while developing technical skills and learning how to collaborate as a team. Participation in robotics may include computer-aided design (CAD), coding, 3D printing, machining, supervised tool use, electrical wiring, wireless networking, project planning, grant writing, and team logistics. 

Engineering

In addition to the after-school Robotics program, CAHS offers introductory and advanced engineering elective courses that allow students to explore areas such as computer-aided design (CAD), Fusion, coding, and Python programming. These hands-on courses are open to all students, with no prior experience or prerequisites required. Students develop problem-solving, design, and technology skills while exploring real-world engineering concepts in a supportive learning environment.

Music Programs

Classical Academy High School offers a variety of music programs that allow students to develop their talents, build confidence, and perform as part of a collaborative team environment.

Band & Advanced Band

The Caiman Corps is a dynamic instrumental music program that performs at school events, pep rallies, football games, and regional competitions. Throughout the year, students also have opportunities to participate in performances by the Jazz Band and Symphonic Orchestra. Band is offered as a performing arts course during the school day, and students of all experience levels are encouraged to participate and explore a variety of instruments.

Drumline

The CAHS Drumline is a competitive ensemble featuring marching percussion, mallet instruments, synthesizers, and guitars. Students perform and compete through the American Drumline Association, developing musical skills, teamwork, discipline, and performance experience. 

Choir

The Caiman Choir provides students with opportunities to develop vocal technique, music reading skills, and stage performance experience. Choir students participate in concerts and performances throughout the year while building confidence, creativity, and collaboration through music. The program is open to students from both CAHS campuses.

Visual and Performing Arts

The visual and performing arts provide students with meaningful opportunities to express creativity, build confidence, and develop their unique voice. Through art, music, theater, and performance, students learn to think creatively, collaborate with others, and approach challenges from new perspectives. Students are encouraged to explore their talents while developing skills in communication, problem-solving, creativity, and self-expression. Whether working in the studio, performing on stage, or participating in music programs, students gain experiences that support both personal growth and academic success.

CAHS offers a wide range of A-G VAPA classes, including Drama, Dance, Art, Graphic Design, Videography, and more, as well as numerous Performing Arts Teams such as Musical Theater, Band, Choir, Drumline, Colorguard, Flag, Dance, etc. We also hold multiple performances throughout the year, including a Talent Show and a Battle of the Bands. For more information, see our CAHS Theater and our CAHS Arts pages.

Clubs

Student-led clubs are an important part of campus life at CAHS. Students can explore shared interests, build friendships, develop leadership skills, and become more involved in the school community through a variety of clubs and activities offered throughout the year.

Each fall, students are invited to participate in Club Rush Day to learn about current clubs and discover opportunities to get involved. Students are also encouraged to start new clubs with support from school leadership and ASB advisors.

Athletics

Our Mission:

CAHS offers many athletic opportunities that develop great character, are fun, help them build friendships, maintain their personal fitness, and prepare them for their future.

Guided by “The Caiman Way,” student-athletes are encouraged to compete with integrity, work hard, and support one another as they develop lifelong habits of discipline and perseverance. CAHS teams have earned numerous league, division, and championship titles, reflecting the strength of our athletic programs and student commitment. For more information about athletic programs, sports clearances, and team contacts, please visit the CAHS Athletics website or contact athletics@classicalacademy.com.

Student Leadership

Associated Student Body (ASB) students help promote school spirit, organize campus events, support student clubs, and lead community service projects throughout the year. Through leadership experiences such as spirit days, dances, outreach activities, and school events, students build communication, teamwork, and leadership skills. Students interested in leadership may apply for ASB through an application and interview process. Students can also participate in Leadership Development courses designed to build confidence and prepare them for future leadership opportunities.Juniors and seniors may apply to Link Crew, a student leadership program focused on mentoring and supporting incoming freshmen as they transition into high school.

Special Education

The Classical Academy is committed to supporting the unique learning needs of all students. Our Special Education Department partners closely with families, teachers, and support staff to ensure students receive individualized instruction and services designed to help them succeed academically, socially, and emotionally.Students who qualify for special education services receive support through an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) tailored to their specific strengths and needs. Services are provided in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE), with a strong belief that students thrive when supported within general education settings whenever appropriate. Our collaborative team approach includes parents, students, general education teachers, special education staff, and related service providers working together to create meaningful learning opportunities and promote student growth. The Classical Academy provides a continuum of services aligned with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and is dedicated to ensuring that every student has access to a high-quality education.

College & Future Readiness

CAHS prepares students for success in college, career, and life. Graduates pursue a variety of pathways, including four-year universities, community colleges, trade schools, military service, and career opportunities. Below is a sample of colleges and universities attended by CAHS graduates.

4-Year College Acceptances

Abilene Christian University

University of Alaska Fairbanks

University of Arizona

Arizona State University

Azusa Pacific University

Bard College

Belmont University

Benedictine College 

Biola University

Bluffton University 

Boise State University

Brigham Young 

   University-Idaho

Brigham Young University

California Baptist University

University of California, 

   Berkeley

University of California, Davis

University of California, Irvine

University of California, Los 

   Angeles

University of California,  

   Merced

University of California,  

   Riverside

University of California, San 

   Diego

University of California, Santa 

   Barbara

University of California, Santa 

   Cruz

California State Polytechnic 

   University, Humboldt

California State Polytechnic 

   University, Pomona

California State Polytechnic 

   University, San Luis Obispo

California State University, 

   Chico

California State University, 

   Fullerton

California State University, 

   Long Beach

California State University, 

   Monterey Bay

California State University, 

   Northridge

California State University, 

   San Marcos

Capital University 

University of Colorado Boulder

Colorado Christian University

Colorado State University

Cornish College of the Arts

Covenant College

Culver-Stockton College

Drake University 

El Camino College

Elon University

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical 

   University, Prescott

Emory University 

Florida Polytechnic University

Fordham University

Fullerton College

University of Glasgow

Gonzaga University

Grand Canyon University

Grove City College

Harding University

Harvard University

Hawaii Pacific University

University of Hawaii at 

   Manoa

University of Idaho

Iowa State University 

Ivy Tech Community College

Jacksonville University

Knox College

University of La Verne

Lawrence University

Lincoln Memorial University

Luther College

Marymount Manhattan 

   College

The Master's University

McPherson College

Michigan State University

MiraCosta College

Miramar College

University of Minnesota

University of Missouri

Nazareth University

University of Nevada, Reno

University of New 

   Hampshire

Northern Arizona University

University of Oklahoma

Oklahoma State University

University of Mississippi 

Orange Coast College

University of Oregon

Oregon State University

Ottawa University

Palm Beach Atlantic 

   University

Palomar College

The Pennsylvania State 

   University

Pepperdine University

Pitzer College 

Point Loma Nazarene 

   University

Princeton University

Reformation Bible College

Rose-Hulman Institute of 

  Technology 

University of Saint Mary

Santa Clara University

University of San Diego

San Diego Mesa College

San Diego Miramar College

San Diego State University

University of San Francisco

San José State University

Scripps College

Sonoma State University

Southern Connecticut State University 

Southern Oregon University 

Southern Utah University

Technical College of the 

   Lowcountry

Texas A&M University

Texas Christian University

Utah State University

United States Air Force 

   Academy

United States Military 

   Academy

University of Utah

Vanguard University

University of Virginia

Washington State University

Western Washington 

   University

Westmont College

Whitman College

Willamette University

University of 

   Wisconsin-Madison 

University of 

   Wisconsin-River Falls

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