San Miguel High School

Co-sponsored by the Cristo Rey Network and the Lasallian Christian brothers, San Miguel High School (SMHS) empowers youth from low-income backgrounds through the integration of rigorous academics and practical work experience, educating the whole student for college, career, and a fulfilling life. During their four years at San Miguel, students take a full college preparatory course load while simultaneously holding professional internships through the Corporate Work Study Program (CWSP).

In their work-study placements, students earn a significant portion of their school tuition and gain valuable soft and technical skills. This is what makes San Miguel unique from other private, college-preparatory high schools, the majority of which have tuition costs that prohibit equitable access to quality education. San Miguel is committed to the holistic development of each student through its innovative combination of classroom and workplace experiences. Furthermore, San Miguel students are encouraged to participate in a cycle described by the motto "Enter to Learn, Leave to Serve", which has a powerful impact on both the individual student and on the broader Tucson community. When you invest in a San Miguel student, you are not only investing in the Tucson community, but in future workplaces and communities across the country.

The San Miguel model works. In academic year 2021-2022, San Miguel served 340 students, 92% of whom identified as Hispanic, Latinx, Black and/or Native American and 73% of whom will be the first in their family to complete high school and attend college. Since opening in 2004, San Miguel students have achieved a 97% graduation rate and 100% of graduating students have been accepted into college.

Testimonials

"At San Miguel, for the first time in my life, I felt like I was surrounded by dedicated teachers who cared and went the extra mile to prepare me for my future endeavors. SMHS was pivotal in my formation, and I am thankful for the structure it instilled in my life." - Graduate of SMHS, Class of 2016