The mission of the Atascadero Unified School District, a progressive organization in a rural and supportive community that upholds a tradition of distinguished and high performing programs, is to empower students to be critical thinkers, lifelong learners, responsible citizens, and effective communicators by providing challenging and innovative educational opportunities adapted to the students unique needs and abilities in a safe and enriching environment under the guidance of a professional and nurturing staff. Compassion and kindness are critical elements in the school environment. All students can learn. We can effect positive change in our students' lives. The people that do the job are in the best situation to improve it.
All people have the right to feel safe, appreciated, respected, and treated fairly.
High and rigorous academic standards must be maintained. We must provide an environment that is emotionally and physically safe, and where learning is made interesting and relevant. As a 1996 California Distinguished School, it is our continued goal to improve upon our high academic standards and to help students succeed by maintaining a safe and structured environment that protects the students, promotes learning and performance, and provides excellent facilities that the students and community can share. While a strong academic program is a high priority, the emotional, social and behavioral needs of our students are as important. The school s environment centers on the development of interdisciplinary teams working with a smaller number of students.