State education department recognizes 2 middle schools
Hall Middle School in Larkspur and Mill Valley Middle School have been named “2021 California Distinguished Schools” by the state Department of Education.
The schools were among about 100 middle and high schools statewide singled out for the honor for their exceptional student performance and their efforts to close the achievement gap, according to state Superintendent Tony Thurmond.
“Amid the backdrop of uncertainty and hardship facing all California schools this past year, this recognition is especially remarkable,” Thurmond said. “These schools are great examples of California’s
commitment to provide outstanding public education for all students.”
Brett Geithman, superintendent of the Larkspur-Corte Madera School District, congratulated Hall Middle students, staff and parents in a note to the community.
“We are proud of Hall Middle’s dedication to excellence, demonstrated through this award,” Geithman said. “Additionally, Hall was designated as a ‘school to watch’ in 2019 where only 16 middle schools in California were named; Hall being the first ever in Marin.”
Anne Lazzarini, principal of Mill Valley Middle School, said she, her staff and parents were honored by the recognition.
“I could not be more proud of our team that works together to educate and support our students at such high levels,” Lazzarini said.
According to the California Department of Education website, schools were awarded when they met the eligibility criteria rather than submitting an application. Eligibility criteria provided by the department are related to test scores, California School Dashboard standards and school poverty rates.
The awards program alternates between recognizing middle and high schools one year and elementary schools the next, so Hall and Mill Valley middle schools will hold their titles for two years. The program allows schools to display the award in publications and on signs.