Crittenden Middle and Graham Middle schools have been named 2019 California Distinguished Schools by the California Department of Education (CDE). The program recognizes outstanding education programs and practices. Schools are awarded for achieving exceptional student performance for two consecutive school years or closing the achievement gap between two school years.
The California Distinguished Schools Program recognizes schools that have made exceptional gains in implementing the academic content and performance standards adopted by the State Board of Education for all students. Indicators include test scores, suspension rates, and graduation rates. Specifically, Crittenden and Graham were recognized for providing for students equitable access to electives, and support and enrichment/extension for all students, including co-teaching, Sheltered Instruction Observation Protocol (SIOP) and Response to Instruction (RTI).
“I commend the staff of both of our middle schools for going the extra mile to make sure each of our students gets the instruction and supports he or she needs to be successful,” said Superintendent Dr. Ayindé Rudolph. “Their work in developing new programs and schedule is making an impact.”
The Distinguished Schools program recognizes elementary and middle and high schools in alternate years and allows eligible schools to apply once every two years.
MVWSD has had nine statewide Blue Ribbon and Distinguished School honors in the last five years:
Bubb Elementary - California Distinguished Elementary School
Huff Elementary - National Blue Ribbon School, California Distinguished Elementary School
Crittenden Middle - California Gold Ribbon School, California Distinguished Middle School
Graham Middle - California Gold Ribbon School, California Distinguished Middle School (twice)
Monta Loma Elementary - California Distinguished Elementary School