The California School Boards Association bestows the prestigious Golden Bell Award upon programs shown to be highly effective and innovative. CUSD winners include:

1996 — Kids in Community Service – Malcom

1997 — Project Japan
          — 7th Inning Stretch at Shorecliffs Middle School
          — CORE Level Testing Program

1999 — Reading Advancement and Development Program
          — Support Team Achieving Real Solutions

2001 — CAFÉ Program
          — Capistrano Professional Development Academies

2002 — Young Adult Program
          — Auto Academy at San Clemente High School

2003 — Club in the Hub at Marco Forster
          — Mind Institute Program at Oak Grove Elementary School
          — Health and Medical Occupation at Dana Hills High School

2004 — Learning Link

2005 — Project Compel
          — Teaming for the Learning of All Children

2006 — CUSD Safety Program
          — PEP Physical Education Program