FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 3, 2014
Contact: Valerie Martinez, Christina L. Esparza, (909) 445-1001

State Superintendent, business leaders recognize innovation, accomplishments

NLMUSD Schools Win Statewide Accolades

Several Norwalk-La Mirada Unified School District schools have reason to celebrate as they have been recognized for their exemplary programs that benefit students and the community.

State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson on Tuesday, Feb. 25 tapped El Camino High School as one of the state’s 2014 Model Continuation High Schools. El Camino was singled out for providing at-risk students with an environment in which to flourish.

During a site visit, the Model Continuation High School review team interviewed students, staff, teachers and stakeholders and found that officials at El Camino “care about the students,” according to the State Superintendent’s office. El Camino will retain its model status for three years.

“Our faculty and staff within the District are committed, enthusiastic and truly care about their students, which is why our schools are consistently being honored with these types of accolades,” said NLMUSD Superintendent Dr. Ruth Pérez.

On Wednesday, Feb. 26, the California Business for Education Excellence (CBEE) also recognized nine NLMUSD elementary and middle schools with its prestigious Honor Roll School award.

Hutchinson and Los Alisos middle schools, as well as Johnston, Eastwood, Escalona, Gardenhill, Morrison, La Pluma and Lampton elementary schools, were all awarded for raising their students to grade-level proficiency and beyond.

“Having high standards, effective school leadership and staying focused on student academic achievement has paid off for these Honor Roll Schools,” said CBEE Chairman Lee Blitch. “These schools are an inspiration.”

According to the latest Academic Performance Index (API) test scores, students at the nine schools have increased their proficiency in English-Language Arts, math and science. In fact, Gardenhill and Escalona have both surpassed the state target of 800 points.

The annual Honor Roll awards are not only designed to award schools that meet the CBEE criteria, but to showcase these schools as examples of hope and direction for other public schools.

“The schools within the Norwalk-La Mirada Unified School District continue to be models for public education throughout the region,” said NLMUSD Board President Margarita Rios. “With our dedicated faculty, encouraging staff and enthusiastic students, I wouldn’t be surprised if one day all schools within the District become Honor Roll schools.”