4 Long Beach Schools Named 2024 CA Distinguished Schools

LONG BEACH, CA — Four schools in Long Beach were recognized as 2024 California Distinguished Schools.

A total of 293 middle schools and high schools were selected for the program, which recognizes schools closing the achievement gap and schools demonstrating exceptional student performance.

"It is my pleasure to honor and recognize these 293 secondary schools for their efforts to provide exemplary public education to all students," State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond said in a statement. "Excellent middle schools and high schools play a critical role in the life outcomes of our young people."

Schools are recognized for exceptional student performance based on achieving exemplary performance in English Language Arts (ELA) and math, reducing suspensions, and demonstrating high graduation rates, according to the California Department of Education.

Schools recognized for closing the achievement gap enroll at least 40% of their students from
socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds and, in addition to demonstrating exemplary overall performance in ELA and math, achieve accelerated academic growth for one or more historically underserved student groups.

Elementary schools and middle and high schools are recognized in alternate years. Therefore, awardees hold the title for two years.

The 2024 California Distinguished Schools, along with the 2023 National Blue Ribbon Schools, 2023 Civic Learning Award Schools, and 2023 and 2024 California Exemplary Dual Enrollment Award Schools, will be recognized May 3 at the Disneyland Hotel in Anaheim.

"This year's California Distinguished Schools celebration provides us with an opportunity to recognize the hard work of our secondary educators and school staff who help our young adults discover passions and access college- and career-ready experiences that will propel them
through life," Thurmond said.

These Long Beach area schools were recognized:

• California Academy of Math & Science
• Eunice Sato Academy of Math & Science
• Stanford Middle School
• Stephens Middle School