State Superintendent Tony Thurmond announced that 10 local elementary schools were among the 336 schools selected for the state’s distinguished schools list for 2025.

State Superintendent Tony Thurmond announced the inclusion of 336 elementary schools across California on the state's distinguished schools list for 2025, recognizing significant achievements in closing the achievement gap and enhancing student performance. Among these recognized institutions are ten schools from various districts in California, including those in Newhall, Saugus, and Sulphur Springs Union School Districts. These schools have excelled in creating positive, supportive learning environments, as analyzed through the California School Dashboard. The Dashboard provides a framework for evaluating school performance across various indicators such as academic achievement and school climate. With these distinctions, California aims to celebrate the dedication and success of educators and administrators in fostering academic excellence and addressing disparities in achievement. In Orange County alone, 44 schools received this honor, attesting to the collaborative efforts between educators, students, and families. The awards underscore the importance of community and educational partnerships in maintaining high standards of education and providing equal opportunities for growth and learning.