I don't know if I HAVE to go to court?

On 10/24/11 I was given a ticket for “failing to yield to on coming traffic” my court date is 01/12/12. I’m 17 years old turning 18 on 11/24 with a permit and live in Ca, I was driving with a licensed driver. Now, my problem is that the date is on a school day, being college I really don’t want to miss a day and suspect if I ask for another date they’ll just give me another school day.

So, I want to admit guilt bc I didn’t yield to the traffic, the van behind me had to abruptly stop (there was no accident) I really didn’t mean to, I kept edging closer to get a good look before I made my turn but made an error in judgment, since that really isn’t a defense I rather just admit guilt, pay my fine, and go to traffic school.

If I do that do I still have to appear in court? I’ve been sent to superior court btw.