2026 California Distinguished Schools
San Diego Unified Schools Highlighted as 2026 California Distinguished Schools02/9/20
Eleven San Diego Unified schools received the prestigious designation as California Distinguished Schools for 2026.
The list includes schools that worked to close the achievement gap and demonstrated exceptional student performance.
Specifically, schools were selected by analyzing data reported in the 2025 California Department of Education Dashboard, with a focus on demonstrating excellence and growth in academic achievement and on ensuring a positive school climate.
2026 San Diego Unified California Distinguished Schools
Challenger Middle School
Correia Middle School
De Portola Middle School
East Village Middle College High School
High Tech High International
Kearny College Connections
Mira Mesa High School
Mission Bay High School
Muirlands Middle School
Pershing Middle School
Standley Middle School
Since its inception in 1985, the California Distinguished Schools Award has remained one of the state’s most important ways to celebrate exceptional schools, districts, teachers, and classified employees for their innovation, talent, and success in supporting students. The complete list of California Distinguished Schools for 2026