Three San Mateo Co. Schools Receive 'Distinguished School' Award

SAN MATEO COUNTY, CA — Three schools in San Mateo County were honored with a performance award by the California Department of Education.

Ralston Intermediate, Burlingame Intermediate and Corte Madera School were among the schools to receive the 2021 California Distinguished School Award. The award, which this year alternates to honor middle and high schools, recognizes schools that meet performance indicators. This year’s award goes to schools that made efforts to address the achievement gap and improve student performance.

Over 100 middle and high schools were named award recipients across the state.

“We are extremely honored to recognize our school districts’ achievements in improving academic outcomes, addressing chronic absenteeism, and reducing suspension rates,” San Mateo County Superintendent of Schools Nancy Magee said in a news release on Monday. “Although the pandemic has disrupted so much for our students and schools, our school leaders and educators remain committed to supporting student success as evidenced by these local honors.”

The San Mateo County Board of Education will honor the winners at a future board meeting.

“These schools are great examples of California’s commitment to provide outstanding public education for all students, and their data-driven efforts have helped ensure that their students leave with the tools and skills they need to be successful after graduation,” said State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond in a news release. “Our thanks go to the entire communities surrounding these schools, including the teachers, administrators, and classified employees as well as the students and their families who, through teamwork, all accomplished this impressive achievement together.”