Four ABC Elementary Schools Receive 2012 California Distinguished School Honors

Four schools were among nearly 100 Los Angeles County public elementary schools named on the list of 2012 California Distinguished Schools today by the head of state public schools.

The local schools that received this honor include:

•  in Cerritos
•  in Cerritos
• Kennedy Elementary in Artesia
•  in Cerritos

The schools were honored by California Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson for their "innovative education programs that encourage students to learn and help close the achievement gap,'' according to a statement from Torlakson's office. Statewide, 387 elementary schools were honored.

How ABC Schools Set Themselves Apart 

For three of the ABC schools this is a first-time distinction, according to district superintendent Dr. Mary Sieu.

"The difference between prior years and last two years of the distinguished school process, is that schools really have to now hone in on one or two signature practices that makes them distinctive, that's been the special nature of the application process these past two years," Sieu said. "The unique part for us is that three of our schools -- Carver, Kennedy and Stowers -- have never received this award."

Both Carver and Stowers were recognized for their magnet programs. 

"I'm really pleased that two of the schools that were selected are magnet schools -- Carver and Stowers," Sieu said. "Both schools have been working on their magnet themes for many years." 

Carver Elementary's Communication Arts magnet program helps students gain skills necessary for success in the 21st century through exploration of both interpersonal and technological communication.

The Stowers Elementary magnet program focuses on International Studies, including lessons on foreign languages, worldwide communications such as email, video conferencing, video broadcasting, and joint projects with countries (China, Korea, India, Germany, Africa, Indonesia). 

At Kennedy Elementary, a program focused on health of body and mind is what gave the school the edge.  

"Their signature practice highlighted promoting health and wellness for students and staff through their program A.I.M. (Active Involved Motivated) -- an after-school program that promotes physical activity and healthy eating," Sieu said. 

For Wittmann Elementary, which has earned the state distinction in the past, the school's Peace Builders Program was highlighted.

"At Wittmann, part of their success can be attributed to the collaboration between teachers working collectively together, but it is also due to their Peace Builders Program, which is part of character education," Sieu said. 

Sieu said the recognition that these four district schools have earned is an accomplishment that should be celebrated by all.

"It's a huge honor for our entire school community," Sieu said. 

LA/OC Overall Achievements

A total of 96 schools in Los Angeles County earned the state distinction. In Orange County, 42 schools were honored.

Distinguished School Criteria

To be invited to apply for Distinguished School recognition, schools must meet federal and state accountability measures based on the Elementary and Secondary Education Act and the Academic Performance Index requirements. There is a written application -- which includes a description of two of the school's signature practices -- and a county-led review of how those practices are implemented, according to Torlakson's office.

Elementary and secondary schools are recognized in alternate years. This year focuses on elementary schools. Torlakson will honor each school at ceremonies on future dates, according to his office.

A complete list of schools is available online at www.cde.ca.gov/ta/sr/cs/.

- City News Service contributed to a portion of this report.