SAN DIEGO, CA — Oak Valley Middle School has been named a 2026 California Distinguished Schools Program, the state’s Department of Education announced.
Oak Valley Middle was one of just 408 middle and high schools across California that were awarded the prestigious designation highlighting exemplary schools. Schools are recognized across the categories of Exemplary High Achievers, Achievement Gap Closers, and new this year, Beacons of Opportunity. Oak Valley was recognized as part of the Achievement Gap Closers category.
“I’m incredibly grateful to step into the principal role at a school that truly prioritizes meeting the needs of every learner. The Achievement Gap Closer distinction is especially meaningful because it shows that the school ensures the academic success of students who have been historically underserved, while also engaging students who seek advanced academic challenges in meaningful learning,” says principal Chamille Dixon. “It’s clear that the teachers at Oak Valley Middle School design thoughtful curriculum that promotes lasting learning for all students.”
Schools are eligible to be a California Distinguished School as determined by metrics generated by the California School Dashboard, which tracks performance indicators for transitional kindergarten through 12th grade in schools and districts across the state. Every school’s data is considered for the program in alternating years.
This is Oak Valley Middle School’s second consecutive California Distinguished School award, after being honored with the designation in 2024.