Finley and Ben Hulse

named among state’s Distinguished Schools

Two Imperial Valley schools were among 287 elementary schools statewide to be chosen as California Distinguished Schools for 2018.

The selection of Holtville’s Emmett S. Finley Elementary and Imperial’s Ben Hulse Elementary was announced Tuesday by State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson.

“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. “Every day at these schools, teachers, administrators and classified employees apply their dedication, creativity and talents toward providing a great education for all their students.

Sponsored by California Casualty, the 2018 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.

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.

“Finley School is very proud is receive this honor of distinction,” Principal Lupita Perez told IV Press. “The staff, students, parents and community have worked extremely hard over the last few years to prepare the students of Finley Elementary for the global future by providing rigorous curriculum and setting high expectations.”

Perez said Finley preparing students for college and career by helping them meet high academic standards while having fun.

She said Finley School has provided students with the opportunity to learn a second language since 2008 through a 50/50 dual immersion program that ultimately allows students to receive the Seal of Biliteracy.

Implementation of the Eureka Math Program has also proven to be effective in providing positive academic results, she said. The curriculum provides students with the concept knowledge needed for long-term understanding while incorporating real-life math challenges.

Meanwhile, Parent Math Nights, presented by teachers, provide parents with strategies and manipulatives for upcoming math concepts in order for parents to assist students at home, Perez said.

“The Finley School family also takes great pride in ensuring that students are prepared for college and career by incorporating AVID Elementary organization and study skills strategies, along with developing students’ critical thinking skills and building academic language through the dual immersion program,” Perez said.

Ben Hulse Elementary School Principle Traci Gibbs could not be reached for comment due to spring break.

The staff, students, parents and community have worked extremely hard over the last few years to prepare the students of Finley Elementary for the global future by providing rigorous curriculum and setting high expectations. Finley Principal Lupita Perez