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Distinguished Schools

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Celebrating schools that excel

The California Distinguished Schools (DS) Program recognizes elementary and middle and high schools in alternate years and allows eligible schools to apply for the California DS Award once every two years. Schools recognized as a California DS Awardee hold the DS Title for two years. For information on eligibility requirements, list of eligible schools and application information visit the California Distinguished Schools Program.

Main Contact

Nicole Shina
Special Programs Assistant
nshina@sdcoe.net
858-292-3850 

From 2015–17, ​​when the DS Program was on a three-year pause while the state transitioned to its new assessment and accountability system, California recognized schools that demonstrated exemplary achievements with the California Gold Ribbon Schools Program.

View the Application Presentation (PDF)

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