Continuum of College Preparation

Helix High School offers a continuum of college readiness activities. All students must meet the challenging University of California and California State University A-G course requirements, which include all of the courses needed to be eligible to apply to a public college or university in California.

In 9th grade, all students have a unit of study on private and public universities and colleges throughout the nation. Teams of students research a particular college, then develop and share presentations at the annual College Fair to all 11th grade students. In addition, all 9th grade students go on a field trip to the University of California San Diego and San Diego State University.

Students have access to numerous dual enrollment community college courses in the various disciplines and Career Technology Education pathways on campus. These courses give students the opportunity to experience college curriculum and explore community college courses and certification programs.

In 11th grade, all students are given the opportunity to attend the College for Me (C4ME) program. Counselors teach students all aspects of exploring, choosing, and applying to colleges. The culminating activity of the C4ME program is a six-day tour of approximately fifteen colleges and universities throughout the state during students’ Spring Break.

During 12th grade, all students have the opportunity to attend Club College every Wednesday after school. Multiple counselors and academic advisors are available to assist students with filling out their college applications and the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). During each summer, all graduating seniors, who have been accepted to a college, are provided counseling service. The focus is on ensuring the students follow through with acceptance letters, financial aid and scholarship requirements, and preparing to actually attend college.