Don Julian Elementary School was named a Title I Academic Achieving School on Tuesday by the California Department of Education, a recognition of its success in meeting the educational needs of students living at or below poverty level.

Don Julian recently received a Gold Ribbon School recognition from the state in April for its model academic program, No Excuses University, in which educators have inspired students to pursue higher education for the past five years.

From kindergarten through fifth grade, students are immersed in a college-going culture. Each classroom is assigned a university, with students learning about different majors and programs, famous alumni and the college environment. Every Friday, students wear college T-shirts and shout out a college chant.

Title I is a federal program that provides money to schools to improve performance by disadvantaged students.

Statewide, 779 elementary schools received Gold Ribbons, 496 of those qualified for the Title I honor.

“Don Julian Elementary is an example of the commitment Bassett Unified invests in its curriculum and programs to provide students every opportunity to be college- and career-ready,” Bassett Unified School District Superintendent Dr. Alex Rojas said. “Thank you to Don Julian’s administrators, staff and teachers for motivating our youngest learners to reach higher in their goals and education.”

The winning schools will be honored during regional ceremonies later this spring.

PHOTOS:

NOEXCUSES1: A Don Julian Elementary School student shouts his college chant for Chico State as part of No Excuses University. Don Julian was named a Title I Academic Achieving School for the program, a recognition of its success in meeting the educational needs of students living at or below poverty level.

NOEXCUSES2: Don Julian Elementary School students take part in a College Colors Parade, where students sport their college apparel and hold university flags as part of No Excuses University. Educators have inspired students in the program to pursue higher education for the past five years.