SET High School

Business Details

Transforming Education Through Individuality and Innovation

At SET High School, we believe in the transformative power of education tailored to individuality. Founded on principles of innovation and inclusivity, we provide a college preparatory environment where small class sizes and a 12:1 student-to-teacher ratio foster personalized learning. Our curriculum combines core academics with project-based approaches, emphasizing entrepreneurship, technology, and real-world problem-solving.

We cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset, empowering students to embrace their unique talents and develop into compassionate global citizens. With WASC accreditation and a focus on community service, we prepare students for academic success and lifelong leadership through a supportive, forward-thinking educational experience.

Services

High School Education College Preparation Entrepreneurship Programs STEM Courses Service-Learning Model

Highlights and features

WASC-accredited college preparatory curriculum
Small class sizes with 12:1 student-to-teacher ratio
Project-based learning with real-world applications
Integrated entrepreneurship and technology programs
150-hour community service requirement for holistic development

Associations and certifications

WASC

What people say

Award-winning teachers California Distinguished School Personalized attention Innovative curriculum Supportive environment

Website

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Services

High School Education

SET High School offers a comprehensive college preparatory program for grades 9-12 with a focus on individualized learning. Our small class sizes ensure personalized attention, while our WASC-accredited curriculum prepares students for higher education. We emphasize critical thinking, creativity, and character development to nurture well-rounded, future-ready graduates.

Entrepreneurship Programs

Our entrepreneurship curriculum includes marketing, leadership, and passion projects that teach students to develop business models. Through partnerships with local entrepreneurs, students gain practical experience in innovation and enterprise. This program cultivates creative problem-solving skills and prepares students for real-world business challenges.

STEM Courses

SET High School provides advanced STEM education with courses in systems administration, robotics, computer science, and engineering. Our hands-on approach combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, preparing students for careers in high-demand technology fields through state-of-the-art facilities and industry-aligned curriculum.

Service-Learning Model

We require 150 hours of community service over four years, integrating civic responsibility into our curriculum. Students reflect on their experiences through multimedia projects, connecting service to academic learning. This model develops empathy, social awareness, and practical leadership skills through meaningful community impact.

College Preparation

Our college preparatory program includes UC A-G certified courses and dual enrollment opportunities with Mesa College. We provide academic counseling and college application support to ensure students meet requirements for top universities. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking and writing skills essential for university success.

People

Dr. Neil McCurdy

Principal & CEO

Dr. Neil McCurdy leads SET High School with a vision for innovative education. As a dedicated educator and administrator, he champions personalized learning approaches and technology integration. His leadership focuses on creating an environment where students develop entrepreneurial mindsets and academic excellence.

Nicky Geis

Assistant Principal

Nicky Geis, San Diego County's Outstanding Teacher of the Year, serves as Assistant Principal at SET High School. She specializes in leadership development and student empowerment. Her approach emphasizes individualized support and fostering a compassionate school culture that celebrates student uniqueness.

Carrie Heath

Site Manager

Carrie Heath oversees daily operations as Site Manager at SET High School. With extensive experience in educational administration, she ensures smooth campus functionality and student support services. Her role focuses on maintaining the school's high standards while facilitating community engagement.

Travis Ashe

Science Teacher

Mr. Travis Ashe teaches physical sciences at SET High School, specializing in earth science, physics, and chemistry. He leverages small class sizes to create engaging, hands-on learning experiences. His teaching philosophy emphasizes curiosity-driven exploration and real-world scientific applications.

Zena Kataf

Education Specialist

Ms. Zena Kataf brings her expertise in special education to SET High School. With a background in camp counseling for special needs children, she creates inclusive learning environments. Her approach focuses on individualized support and developing students' unique strengths through differentiated instruction.

Questions

Is SET High School tuition-free?

Yes, SET High School is a public charter school offering tuition-free education for grades 9-12.

What accreditation does SET High School hold?

SET High School is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).

What special programs does SET offer?

We offer entrepreneurship programs, STEM courses, college dual enrollment, and a service-learning model requiring 150 community service hours.

What is the student-teacher ratio?

SET maintains a 12:1 student-to-teacher ratio to ensure personalized learning experiences.

Does SET provide college preparation?

Yes, we offer UC A-G certified courses and college counseling to prepare students for higher education.

What extracurricular activities are available?

SET offers athletics through CIF, clubs like mock trial and yearbook, and student groups enhancing the educational experience.

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Reviews (6)

Write a Review

Gregory K.

Feb 25, 2020 Report

Our son is a freshman this year at SET. He is thriving and performing exceptionally (all A's out the gate). As much as a 14 year old can express I think he likes it since there are some peers that have come to SET from his middle school (IA in Scripps Ranch). The curriculum is sufficiently challenging and he is engaged.

Bj D.

May 21, 2018 Report

This school is a gem, my daughter started 9th grade here this year and the year went by in a flash. She gave up a spot at high tech high for this school instead and she couldn't have been happier. The class sizes are smaller and work more tailored around the kids. They don't teach to pass the tests and they expect students to be part of their community. Each year the students get to create a passion project something that will help the community and something that fulfills the students desires to help others. The teachers have great credentials and they offer classes outside the

Kerry E.

Feb 21, 2018 Report

This school has helped my son in so many ways. He's an advanced kid so I have to make sure I'm cognizant of that when selecting schools for him to attend. As a military family, we move a lot so this school was heaven sent. He's been attending for 2 years now and he loves it. He has a wonderful relationship with the faculty/staff/students and loves the challenges he faces with the curriculum. Class sizes are really small which I love and the overall school is small so everyone knows each other. I love that the curriculum teaches the students real world scenarios while equipping them

Lisa C.

Jan 28, 2018 Report

Is your child a nontraditional learner and are you looking for a charter school that doesn't expect students to learn the same way as everyone else? If so, I highly suggest you check out SET High (formerly Coleman Tech Charter School). Our son graduated from SET High last year and now our daughter is attending and we couldn't be happier. She is only in 9th grade and already taking on leadership roles. The teachers exceed my expectations. They know each student by name, have great relationships with them. My son's former teachers are always happy to see him when he goes to visit

B. G.

Dec 16, 2017 Report

The staff really cares about the students education. Students receive multiple opportunities to explore real world applications of topics they learn im class. This school prepares young adults for life after high school. This is what a Real education is all about.

L. Allen

Dec 05, 2016 Report

I like the staff and treatment of kids. Plenty of opportunity for students to learn independent actions and responsibility from constructive teaching methods. Admin apply experience and take sound practical approaches towards guidance of this age group. Witness to last 3 years-a teacher became the new principle last year, and he is outstanding. My daughter happily goes to school and likes the teachers. LAllen.