By Daniel Larios
Staff Writer

May 5, 2014 – School District officials announced Friday that two elementary schools in Santa Monica and two in Malibu have received the California Distinguished School honor for 2014.

Franklin Elementary and Roosevelt Elementary in Santa Monica and Point Dume Marina Science School and Webster Elementary in Malibu have been named as two of the 424 public elementary schools to receive the award.
  
“We are so proud of all of our schools,” said Superintendent Sandy Lyon.  “This recognition honors the hard work and dedication of our staff, students and families.”

This is Franklin Elementary’s second California Distinguished School honor, having previously gained the title in 2008.

“Everyone is absolutely ecstatic,” said Franklin Principal Tara Brown. “I don't think the designation changes the school, but gives validation to our amazing staff, students, parents and community for all of the hard work and effort that is made on a daily basis towards all students achieving academic excellence while narrowing the achievement gap.”

Roosevelt Elementary has also previously received the honor in 2009.

“This award directly reflects the expertise and collaboration of our exceptional educators and our dedicated Roosevelt families,” said Roosevelt Principal Natalie Burton. 

“I am so proud that our students have flourished with such enthusiasm through our signature practices in Math and English Language Arts.  This exciting recognition is an honor for our entire Roosevelt community.”

The 2014 California Distinguished Schools Program focuses on “California’s students’ right to an equitable and rigorous education and recognizes those schools that have made progress in narrowing the academic achievement gap,” according to program organizers.

Although participation is voluntary, the award is highly sought after by schools across the state. Elementary and secondary schools are recognized during alternate years.

The award is the product of “the dedication, hard work, and vision of the schools’ educational community,” according to State Superintendent Tom Torlakson.

“I applause these strong, thriving schools that are making such impressive strides in preparing their students for continued success,” Torlakson said in a statement.  “This award is well-deserved by these school communities for their enduring dedication to high standards, hard work, and unwavering support.” 

Two other elementary schools from the district were recognized as California Distinguished Schools: Point Dume Marina Science School and Webster Elementary School.  Both are located in Malibu.

To apply for Distinguished School honors, schools must meet a variety of eligibility criteria, including accountability measures, according to state officials. 

Once schools are deemed eligible, the California Department of Education (CDE) invites them to apply to be recognized as a California Distinguished School.

The process consists of a written application, which includes a comprehensive description of two of the school's signature practices and a county-led site validation review process focused on the implementation of those signature practices.