An early assignment, for example, requires students to assemble their own computers. Spanish is the one foreign language taught at High Tech High. The school connects with the high tech workplace. The curriculum is developed based on real-world projects, in collaboration with industry partners. Students in 11th and 12th grade spend part of their days working off-site in industry internships that provide additional contexts for projects tied back to the intellectual mission of the school.
Students learn to understand and use information technology.
Each student learns to use word processing, spreadsheet, database and graphics software on their workstation computers, and has the Internet access they need for inquiry related to their project work. Students learn more advanced networking and systems engineering through High Tech High's on-site Cisco Networking Academy. The school is also working with the San Diego Community College District to collaboratively develop information technology curricula that allows interested High Tech High graduates to complete an Associate's degree in one year. Adult relationships support student learning. Each student has an advisor, who they meet with individually and an advisory group, that includes other students, where important personal and social issues are addressed.