Sunnyvale School District has trio of distinguished campuses
Efforts to close achievement gap recognized
Three of the eight elementary schools in the Sunnyvale School District were selected for the state's 2023 Distinguished Schools Program.
The California Department of Education bestowed the distinction on Cherry Chase, Cumberland and Fairwood elementary schools. The Sunnyvale campuses were among 356 in the state to be named Distinguished Schools this year.
Established in 1985, the California Distinguished Schools program recognizes schools for their work in one of two categories: closing the achievement gap and achieving exceptional student performance.
“We are excited that the state of California has recognized the dedication of our staff, students, families and district,” Superintendent Michael Gallagher said in a statement. “All of our stakeholders are working together to build school communities that focus on the academic, social-emotional and behavioral growth of our students, and that is clearly contributing to the success of our students.”
The Department of Education selected schools for the distinction by analyzing data reported through the 2022
California School Dashboard, including assessment results, chronic absenteeism, suspension rates and socioeconomic data, according to the Department of Education.
“California Distinguished Schools represent examples of not just excellent teaching, learning and collaboration but also highly successful, data-driven school efforts ranging from professional development for educators to mental health and social-emotional wellness strategies to address the needs of students and families,” state Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond said in a statement.
Elementary schools and middle and high schools receive the award in alternating years, meaning schools hold the title for two years.
For more information, visit cde.ca.gov/ta/ac/cm/index.asp.