Narrowing the achievement gap among underrepresented students is now required criteria for schools to become California Distinguished Schools.
Closing the achievement gap has been one of state Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O’Connell’s big priorities, and this change furthers that goal.
“There are large disparities in the achievement between groups of students – our white students and our students of color, as well as gaps with our English learners, students from impoverished families, and students with disabilities,” O’Connell said. “This achievement gap is a concern for all Californians. Closing it is not only my top priority, it is imperative for the future of our students and our state.”
Starting in 2009, schools must demonstrate progress in narrowing the achievement gap as well as educational excellence for all students. Other eligibility criteria includes designated federal and state accountability measures based on Adequate Yearly Progress under No Child Left Behind and Academic Performance Index requirements.
Elementary and secondary schools are recognized during alternate years. For the 2009 cycle, eligible middle and high schools are invited to participate. The criteria for selection are based on the submission of an application, including a description of two of the school’s successful signature practices, an application review, along with a site visit designed to validate the full implementation of the submitted practices.
The application itself has also been revised and streamlined. Many schools historically have chosen not to apply due to the time-consuming and arduous process of completing applications to qualify.
Now, instead of completing a long application narrative, schools will submit a description of two of their successful signature practices. The California Department of Education, in conjunction with the California School Recognition Program Advisory Committee, has developed new guidelines and a new template for this revised process. The signature practice submission will be reviewed by a team of educators to verify the submission meets all guidelines and is complete.
In addition, eligible high schools are also invited to apply for “special honors” in Career Technical Education. The inclusion of CTE reflects the strong support of O’Connell for preparing all high school students for the workforce. This special emphasis element of the Distinguished School application is optional.
Schools submitting a successful application will receive a site visit by a team of educators to validate the implementation of the school’s signature practices. The team will make the final recommendation to the CDE. Schools receiving the Distinguished School Award will have their signature practices posted on the CDE Web site and serve as a resource to other schools.
“The recognition of being selected a California Distinguished School will now continue in perpetuity as the successful practices of each school will be available for all schools to consider and implement on their own campuses,” O’Connell said. “We are committed to extending these innovative ideas to support and empower all schools in closing the achievement gap.”
The deadline for middle and high schools to apply for the 2009 cycle is Dec. 19. To download an application or for more information, visit www.cde.ca.gov/ta/sr/cs/.