Principal's Message

August 15, 2024

Welcome to El Sereno Independent Study! 

My name is Kirk Bebout (pronounced Beebo) and I'm happy to be serving as your Principal.

I am proud to be a part of the alternative education programs in the San Juan Unified School District. There are many reasons why students might seek alternative education. Independent Study is a great opportunity for students needing a learning alternative to the traditional schools. 

For more than forty years the San Juan Unified School district has successfully provided an independent study environment for high school students through El Sereno.  Our teachers and programs continue to adapt to the various learning needs of our students while maintaining high standards of education for all students including A-G courses and co-enrollment for CTE courses.

When all schools went to distance learning in 2020, students, parents, and teachers  could see that some students thrived while learning from home.  In 2021 California State laws (Education Code) for independent study changed and we were allowed to offer a middle school option. Over the last few years we found that there was a continuing need for the Independent Study Middle school (ISM) program in the San Juan Unified School District, so El Sereno now offers enrollment for sixth through twelfth grade.

I value honesty, hard work and respect.  I want to assist all students to maximize their potential, find their passion, and help them grow as human beings.  Equity and fairness are motivators behind every decision we make here at ESHS.  

If you have any questions, I encourage you to reach out to me via email at kbebout@sanjuan.edu.