California School Recognition Program

Every year in California, schools are recognized for their academic achievement, and closing the “achievement gap” among groups. High quality education should be the right of every student in California. The school districts, county offices of education, and the California Department of Education are responsible for making sure that every student, regardless of race, religion, or social status, receive this right. Closing this “achievement gap” between groups has become a top priority for State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O’Connell. He believes that all students having access to quality education is important for a strong education system in a strong California.
The 2009 California School Recognition Program (CSRP) honors schools that have shown educational excellence for all students. Schools must meet various eligibility criteria based on No Child Left Behind (NCLB), Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP), and Academic Performance Index (API) requirements. The criteria for selection of schools is based on turning in an application including the school’s signature practices that are directly related to the success of their students, a review of the application, and a site visit to confirm the submitted practices.
Applications are reviewed for completeness by teams of educators chosen by the CDE. Complete applications move forward as a state nominee. Each state nominee receives a site visit to confirm the submitted practices.
Selected schools are recognized at an awards ceremony where Jack O’Connell presents each school with a 2009 California Distinguished School plaque and flag. The event is funded by donations and corporate sponsors, such as the Disneyland Resort.
Schools recognized are leaders in academic achievement and leaders in helping all students succeed. Each school is personally called by Jack O’Connell. O’Connell states “Each principal I spoke to was excited and overjoyed at their recognition for this prestigious award. All of our Distinguished Schools awardees are incredible schools with dedicated teachers, hard-working principals, and successful students.”
The selected schools represent about 10.9 percent of California’s 2,400 middle and high schools. Of those schools, only 341 schools have met the criteria based on student achievement from 170 school districts in 46 counties.
The 2009 Distinguished Schools awards will be held Friday, May 29, 2009 at the Disneyland Hotel in Anaheim. Among schools honored are Sacramento County schools: Elk Grove High School, Delta High School, CK McClatchy High School, John F. Kennedy High School, Bella Vista High School, Casa Roble Fundamental High School, Louis Pasteur Fundamental Middle School, and Westside Prepatory Charter Middle School.
For more information about the CSRP, including a list of schools eligible and sponsors, please visit http://www.cde.ca.gov/ta/sr/cs/.