We're A 2026 California Distinguished School!

On Tuesday, March 10th, Los Cerritos Middle School was announced by State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond as one of 408 middle and high schools in the state selected for the prestigious 2026 California Distinguished Schools Program! This statewide recognition program highlights exceptional schools that distinguish themselves on the basis of exemplary student outcomes. 

Los Cerritos Middle is one of just five schools in Ventura County to earn this year’s honor.

This statewide school recognition program recognizes two categories of exceptional California schools: those Closing the Achievement Gap and those demonstrating Exceptional Student Performance. Los Cerritos Middle earned this recognition through successful demonstration of Exceptional Student Performance.

Schools recognized for Exceptional Student Performance are among the highest in the state in academic achievement for all students, while also ensuring that historically underserved student groups are maintaining or increasing academic progress.

Eligibility for all categories is determined by metrics generated through the California statewide accountability system for public schools, the California School Dashboard. The 2026 California Distinguished Schools were determined using data from the 2025 California School Dashboard.

Since its inception in 1985, the California Distinguished Schools Award remains one of the state’s most important ways to celebrate exceptional schools, districts, teachers, and classified employees for their innovation, talent, and success in supporting students.

The 2026 California Distinguished Schools recognition program aims to recognize exemplary instructional programs throughout California public schools, the largest public school system in the United States.

Schools need not apply for California Distinguished Schools, as every school’s data is automatically considered in alternating years. Elementary schools and kindergarten through eighth-grade schools were considered in 2025 and will next be considered in 2027. Middle schools and high schools are being considered in 2026 and will next be considered in 2028. Therefore, awardees hold the title for two years.

Los Cerritos Middle, along with all 2026 California Distinguished Schools, will be recognized at a special ceremony hosted by the California Department of Education in Anaheim at the end of April.

Congratulations to our Los Cerritos Middle School community on this well-deserved recognition! This honor illuminates the innovation, dedication and hard work of your teachers, administrators, staff, students and families - Go Leopards!

Click here to read the California Department of Education’s News Release: State Superintendent Tony Thurmond Announces 2026 California Distinguished Schools.