Twenty-five years ago, local business leaders, including Qualcomm executives, recognized a challenge: San Diego’s booming tech industry needed more engineers. What started as a plan to cultivate young talent soon evolved into something much bigger — the creation of High Tech High, a school that would redefine education through innovation, equity, and hands-on learning.
When I attended a planning meeting in 1998, the vision was simple: a school that prepared students for real-world careers. My wife, Jerri-Ann, and I believed in that vision, investing $3 million to help launch what became the Gary and Jerri-Ann Jacobs High Tech High at Liberty Station in Point Loma. The school launched in 2000. For Jerri-Ann and I, it wasn’t just about funding a new building — it was about reimagining education.
Under the leadership of Larry Rosenstock, High Tech High pioneered Project-Based Learning, where students engage in real-world challenges rather than just memorizing facts. This approach fosters critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving — skills essential for any career path.
This model has never been more relevant. A 2021 report from the World Economic Forum identified critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration as the top three skills needed in the modern workforce — precisely what Project Based Learning instills in students. The World Economic Forum’s “Future of Jobs Report 2023” emphasizes the growing importance of skills such as analytical thinking, creative thinking, and AI and big data in the modern workforce.
While these differ slightly from the 2021 report’s focus on critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration, they still align with the competencies fostered by Project-Based Learning at High Tech High. This type of learning encourages students to develop analytical and creative thinking skills, preparing them for the evolving demands of the job market.
Additionally, research from the National Bureau of Economic Research indicates that hands-on, inquiry-based learning enhances student retention and engagement, particularly among historically underserved populations. At High Tech High, this approach has led to our graduates being accepted to college at among the highest rates of any public school in San Diego County, with many alumni excelling in careers across STEM, education, and public service sectors.
On average, about 95% of our seniors meet the demanding college “A-G requirements,” demonstrating their readiness for college-level coursework. Additionally, more than 80% of our graduates transition to college, consistently placing High Tech High among the top districts in San Diego County for college-going rates.
High Tech High started with just 150 students. Today, it has 16 schools at four San Diego County locations. Thousands of educators visit annually to learn from its model, and alumni return as staff to continue its mission.
As we celebrate 25 years, one thing is clear: High Tech High isn’t just preparing students for the future — it’s shaping it.
Gary Jacobs is co-founder of High Tech High and serves as chairman of the board of trustees of High Tech High charter schools. He is the managing director of Jacobs Investment Company LLC and lives in Del Mar.
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