Seven Santa Clara Co. Schools Given 'Distinguished School' Award

SANTA CLARA COUNTY, CA — Seven schools across six districts in Santa Clara County were honored with a performance award by the California Department of Education.

KIPP Heartwood Academy, Morrill Middle, Joaquin Miller Middle, Sam H. Lawson Middle, College Connection Academy, Rancho Milpitas Middle and University Preparatory Academy Charter were among the schools to receive the 2021 California Distinguished School Award. The award, which this year alternates to honor middle and high schools, recognizes schools that meet performance indicators. This year’s award goes to schools that made efforts to address the achievement gap and improve student performance.

Over 100 middle and high schools were named award recipients across the state.

“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,” said State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond in a news release. “Our thanks go to the entire communities surrounding these schools, including the teachers, administrators, and classified employees as well as the students and their families who, through teamwork, all accomplished this impressive achievement together.”