The California School Recognition Program, begun in 1985 by the California Department of Education (CDE), honors elementary and secondary schools in alternating years. It recognizes schools that are successfully implementing the priorities of the State Superintendent of Public Instruction and the State Board of Education. Schools that apply undergo a comprehensive self-assessment that involves the entire school community, including teachers, parents and students, and community and business leaders.

Schools are identified as eligible to participate based upon their accountability data. The CDE uses a rigorous competitive application model which requires schools to demonstrate elements common to exemplary schools. They include:

• Powerful standards and graduation requirements
• Visionary and collaborative leadership
• Research-based curriculum and instructional practices
• Learning support services for all students including those with special needs
• Modern technology to support student learning
• Effective professional development
• Extensive family participation
• Partnerships with business and community
• A safe, clean and healthy learning environment

Capistrano Unified School District is proud to highlight its 40 California Distinguished Schools designations:

-- Ambuehl Elementary School
-- Arroyo Vista K-8 School
-- Don Juan Avila Elementary School
-- Barcelona Hills Elementary School
-- Bathgate Elementary School
-- Truman Benedict Elementary School
-- Marian Bergeson Elementary School
-- Canyon Vista Elementary School
-- Castille Elementary School
-- Chaparral Elementary School
-- Concordia Elementary School
-- Crown Valley Elementary School
-- Del Obispo Elementary School
-- Hidden Hills Elementary School
-- Laguna Niguel Elementary School
-- Las Flores Elementary School
-- Las Palmas Elementary School
-- Lobo Elementary School
-- Malcom Elementary School
-- Moulton Elementary School
-- Oak Grove Elementary School (2 awards)
-- Reilly Elementary School
-- Tijeras Creek Elementary School
-- George White Elementary School
-- Wood Canyon Elementary School
-- Aliso Viejo Middle School
-- Bernice Ayer Middle School
-- Don Juan Avila Middle School
-- Ladera Ranch Middle School
-- Las Flores Middle School (2 awards)
-- Marco Forster Middle School
-- Newhart Middle School
-- Niguel Hills Middle School
-- Shorecliffs Middle School
-- Vista del Mar Middle School
-- Aliso Niguel High School
-- Capistrano Valley High School
-- Dana Hills High School (2 awards)
-- San Clemente High School (2 awards)
-- Tesoro High School