Cherry Chase, Cumberland, and Fairwood Elementary Schools honored with state recognition

SUNNYVALE, CA — January 20, 2023 — Cherry Chase, Cumberland, and Fairwood Elementary Schools were selected for the 2023 Distinguished Schools Program.

Since its inception in 1985, the California Distinguished Schools Award celebrates exceptional schools, districts, teachers, and classified employees for their innovation, talent, and success in supporting students.

To select California Distinguished Schools, the California Department of Education (CDE) uses multiple measures to identify eligible schools based on their performance on the state indicators as specified on the California School Dashboard (Dashboard).

Specifically, schools were selected by analyzing data reported through the 2022 Dashboard, including assessment results, chronic absenteeism, suspension rates, and socioeconomic data. Information regarding the 2022 Dashboard is provided on the CDE California School Dashboard and System of Support web page.

“We are excited that the State of California has recognized the dedication of our staff, students, families, and district,” Superintendent Michael Gallagher said. “All of our stakeholders are working together to build school communities that focus on the academic, social-emotional, and behavioral growth of our students and that is clearly contributing to the success of our students.” 

The California Distinguished Schools program recognizes schools for their excellent work in one of two categories: closing the achievement gap and achieving exceptional student performance. Elementary schools and middle and high schools are recognized in alternate years; therefore, awardees hold the title for two years.

The list of 356 recognized schools for 2023 is below. For more information, please visit the CDE California Distinguished Schools Program web page