Hare High School and School Principal Earn Top Awards

Thursday, February 27, 2025

Hare High School has been named a 2025 Model Continuation High School by the state of California, recognizing its exceptional programs and commitment to student success. In addition to this honor, Principal Lydia Machado has been awarded the 2025 Continuation/Educational Administrator of the Year award by the Association of California School Administrators, further highlighting Hare High School’s leadership in alternative education.

This marks the fourth consecutive time since 2016 that Hare High School has earned this prestigious three-year designation as a Model Continuation School. Hare boasts the highest graduation rates for Orange County continuation high schools for 2023-2024 at 93.2%

“Hare High School exemplifies what it means to truly support students in every aspect of their education and well-being,” said Board Trustee Teri Rocco. “This recognition is a testament to the dedication of the staff and the resilience of the students who make Hare such a special place. We are proud that Principal Machado was recognized with the prestigious Administrator of the Year award, a recognition of her exemplary leadership and support for student achievement.”

Hare High School stands out for its innovative programs and student-centered approach, providing essential resources that support both academic achievement and personal development. Hare High School continues to set the standard for excellence in continuation education, ensuring that every student receives the support and opportunities they need to succeed.

The school provides a positive culture and climate with outstanding supports including schoolwide tutoring built into the day to support academics, classroom restorative circles, a dedicated Well Space created in partnership with Orange County Department of Education and CHOC, and an on-campus Child Development Center providing developmentally appropriate child care for parenting students. Our dedicated school social workers provide students with personalized mental health support and community partnerships with Project Kinship, Young Lives and MOMS provide additional layers of support. Recently the school launched an intramural sports intervention program in partnership with fellow continuation sites, promoting participation in athletics and helping students to develop a sense of community and academic accountability.