Marin Oaks, located at the site of the former Hill Middle School on Diablo Avenue, meets the needs of students who have been unsuccessful in other high school environments for various reasons. It took the place of the North Marin High School, set up in 1965 as a continuation school and was given its new name for the 2001-2002 academic year.
Marin Oaks students, which number about 75, used to attend classes on the campus of Novato High until the move to Diablo Avenue was made in the summer of 2011. Often they participate in mentorship or internship programs in the community to gain real-world experience. Visiting career fairs and listening to guest speakers are part of the learning program described by the district as less competitive than at other high schools.
The students may take elective classes at Novato High in addition to the individualized instruction received at the continuation school. The curriculum heavily promotes responsibility and accountability and creates a safe learning environment for those students who have struggled for various reasons. The teachers and administrators work hard to maintain a low-pressure family atmosphere to guide the students toward meeting graduation requirements.
Although some of the students are at Marin Oaks because of disciplinary problems, others are there because of circumstances beyond their control. Almost half the student body is considered socioeconomically challenged by the school district. There are many success stories involving students walking through graduation ceremonies against all odds and earning a diploma that inspires them to strive for a college degree. The school's graduation rate is varies greatly year by year, but it hovers between 90 and 100 percent.