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Real Life Learning

The Real Life Learning program provides all Half Moon Bay High School students with meaningful opportunities to get out into the real world and have real-life experiences while they are in high school. We believe that when students are actively engaged with the world around them, they gain critical knowledge about who they are, what they care about, and ultimately what they may choose to pursue after high school.

The program connects students with diverse opportunities that both make a positive impact in the community and stimulate civic engagement, personal interests, leadership and skill development, and career exploration. The benefits of a community service program not only impact our students but also our school and our wider community.

The Real Life Learning program got its start in Fall 2021 with the generous support of the HMBHS PTO. The program’s initial goals were to streamline program operations, digitize service tracking systems, and generate more meaningful service opportunities for our students. In Fall 2022, the Cabrillo Education Foundation (CEF) became the exclusive sponsor of Real Life Learning and continues to fully fund this program. Together, we have launched several career discovery initiatives, including:

  • A virtual career day
  • Job fairs
  • Career panels
  • Job training workshops
  • A career mentor database, and more. 


In Spring 2024, the HMBHS Real Life Learning program was awarded the J. Russell Kent Award given by the San Mateo County School Boards Association (SMCSBA) to recognize innovative and outstanding programs in San Mateo County public schools.

Click on logo below to learn more about Real Life Learning