San Diego Unified schools is proud of Challenger Middle's designation as a 2019 Distinguished School. Winners, including Challenger Middle, 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.
State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond made the announcement Feb. 25 honoring 162 schools under this program.
“I would like to commend these schools for fighting for a better future for our students, closing achievement gaps, and improving academic performance,” Thurmond said. “Thanks to teachers, administrators, classified employees, and parents working together, these schools meet the needs of all of their students, provide high-quality educational experiences, and put kids on a pathway to great careers.”
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 graduation rates. Schools were also eligible to apply for a California Exemplary Program Award in Arts Education, Physical Activity and Nutrition Education, or Career Technical Education, which will be announced at a later time.
The Distinguished Schools program returned last year after a three-year hiatus. The program recognizes California elementary schools that have made exceptional gains in implementing academic content and performance standards adopted by the State Board of Education.
For a complete list of honorees and to learn more about the program, please visit the California Distinguished Schools Program.