Benchley-Weinberger Elementary School / Communications Magnet was honored with a California Distinguished School Award, announced this week by the state Department of Education.
Eleven SDUSD elementary schools were honored this year.
"This is truly a great honor for these schools, their students, principal, staff, parents, volunteers and the entire community," said Superintendent Bill Kowba. "It's not easy to become a California Distinguished School. It requires great scores and a commitment by the staff to go through the lengthy state process."
In California, there currently exists an “achievement gap” among student subgroups that threatens their future and the future of California. Access to high-quality educational experiences should be the right of every student in California and it is the responsibility of the schools, districts, county offices of education, and the California Department of Education (CDE) to work together toward that end. The CDE has made closing the achievement gap a top priority and strongly believes that making schools work for all students, regardless of their background, condition, or circumstances, is an imperative for a strong education system and a strong California.
The 2012 Program directly focuses on California’s students and their entitlement to an equitable and rigorous education. The California Distinguished School Award identifies and honors those schools that have demonstrated educational excellence for all students and progress in narrowing the achievement gap.
In order to be invited to apply for Distinguished School honors, schools must meet a variety of eligibility criteria including designated federal and state accountability measures based on the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) and the Academic Performance Index (API) requirements.
Elementary and secondary (middle and high) schools are recognized during alternate years. For the 2012 cycle, eligible elementary schools are invited to participate. The criteria for school selection are based on the submission of an application, including a comprehensive description of two of the school’s successful signature practices, and an application review.
