State names seven Inland Distinguished Schools

Winners include schools in Hemet, Murrieta Valley, San Bernardino City, Temecula Valley districts

Seven Inland Empire schools have been named as being among the best of California’s more than 2,600 public middle schools and high schools.

The California Department

of Education has announced its list of more than 100 California Distinguished Schools.

The Inland winners are:

• Western Center Academy, Hemet Unified School District

• Dorothy McElhinney Middle School, Murrieta Valley Unified School District

• Erle Stanley Gardner Middle School, Temecula Valley Unified School District

• James L. Day Middle School, Temecula Valley Unified School District

• Richardson PREP Hi Middle School, San Bernardino City Unified

School District

• Cobalt Institute of Math and Science Academy, Victor Valley Union High School District

• University Preparatory School, Victor Valley Union High School District

Schools are recognized for their success in one of two areas: closing achievement gaps among groups of students or for exceptional student performance.

“These schools are great examples of California’s commitment to provide outstanding public education for all students, and their data-driven efforts have helped ensure that their students leave with the tools and skills they need to be successful after graduation,” State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond is quoted as saying in a news release.

The department alternates between honoring elementary and secondary schools each year.