BALDWIN PARK – Eight Baldwin Park Unified elementary schools honored as Gold Ribbon Schools in April are being recognized for their efforts to help students living at or below the poverty line achieve their goals.

Baldwin Park Unified’s Central, Charles Bursch, Elwin, Ernest R. Geddes, Foster, Kenmore, Pleasant View and Tracy elementary schools were each recognized by the California Department of Education on Tuesday, May 3.

“It is heartening to see the continuing recognition of the quality programs offered at Baldwin Park Unified schools,” Superintendent Froilan N. Mendoza said. “This award offers a strong validation of the efforts of our dedicated team of educators and of the commitment our students show in their pursuit of their studies.”

The eight elementary schools were recognized through the Gold Ribbon program for boosting student achievement through programs that promote college, literacy, English/Spanish biliteracy, collaborative teaching and parent engagement.

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.

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