12 San Diego County Schools Among 2025 California Distinguished Schools

SAN DIEGO, CA — A dozen elementary schools in San Diego County were recognized Tuesday as 2025 California Distinguished Schools.

A total of 336 elementary 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 336 elementary schools for their efforts to provide exemplary public education to all students," State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond said in a statement. "Excellent elementary schools play a critical role in the life outcomes of our young people."

Schools recognized for closing the achievement gap have demonstrated exemplary growth for student groups that have experienced persistent achievement gaps and have also demonstrated strong overall outcomes for all students, according to the California Department of Education.

Schools recognized for exceptional student performance are among the highest in overall student achievement, while also showing strong indicators of student engagement and positive school climate.

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

The 2025 California Distinguished Schools, along with 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools, 2024 Civic Learning Award Schools, and 2025 Green Ribbon Schools Green Achievers will be recognized May 30 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 elementary educators and school staff who help our students discover passions and experiences that will propel them," Thurmond said.

These are the San Diego area schools that were recognized:

• Dehesa Elementary, The Heights Charter
• Escondido Union, Heritage K-8 Charter
• Fallbrook Union Elementary, La Paloma Elementary
• Fallbrook Union Elementary, Live Oak Elementary
• Lakeside Union Elementary, Riverview Elementary
• San Diego County Office of Education, Dual Language Immersion North County
• San Diego County Office of Education, JCS - Manzanita
• San Diego Unified, Jonas Salk Elementary
• San Diego Unified, Benchley/Weinberger Elementary
• San Diego Unified, Doyle Elementary
• Solana Beach Elementary, Carmel Creek Elementary
• Solana Beach Elementary, Solana Pacific Elementary