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Multiple elementary schools recognized under state’s Distinguished Schools Program

Multiple elementary schools recognized under state’s Distinguished Schools Program
Posted on 04/03/2018

San Diego Unified School District

The California Distinguished Schools Program is back after three years - and San Diego Unified schools are showing their star power more than ever.

San Diego Unified has 16 traditional elementary schools and one charter school on the list of nearly 300 elementary schools recognized statewide. These schools include:

  • Barnard Elementary
  • Benchley/Weinberger Elementary
  • Chesterton Elementary
  • Edison Elementary
  • Elevate Elementary (Charter)
  • Gage Elementary
  • Garfield Elementary
  • Green Elementary
  • Hancock Elementary
  • Holmes Elementary
  • Jerabek Elementary
  • La Jolla Elementary
  • Miller Elementary
  • Miramar Ranch Elementary
  • Sessions Elementary
  • Toler Elementary
  • Nye Elementary

The California Distinguished Schools Program recognizes California elementary schools that have made exceptional gains in implementing academic content and performance standards adopted by the State Board of Education.

State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson made the announcement April 2 that 287 schools were being honored under this program, which has returned after a three-year break, and replaces the California Gold Ribbon Schools Program.

“These schools implement outstanding educational programs and practices that help California students realize their potential, and put them on the path to achieve their dreams,” Torlakson said in a news release. “Every day at these schools, teachers, administrators and classified employees, working with parents, apply their dedication, creativity, and talents toward providing a great education for all their students.”

Schools that applied were eligible based on their performance and progress on the state indicators as described on the California School Dashboard. Indicators include test scores, suspension rates, and English learner progress. Schools were also eligible to apply for a California Exemplary Program Award in Arts Education, and/or Physical Activity and Nutrition Education, which will be announced at a later time. These award winners represent examples of not just excellent teaching, learning, and collaborating, but also highly successful school climate efforts, ranging from real time conflict resolution to positive behavior intervention.

For a complete list of honorees and to learn more about the program, please visit the California Department of Education's website.