Hollywood High School, located at Sunset Boulevard and Highland Avenue, was recognized for exceptional student learning outcomes. (photo by Edwin Folven)
State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond announced on March 10 that 408 middle schools and high schools have been selected statewide for the prestigious 2026 California Distinguished Schools Program.
In the local area, Hollywood High School, John Burroughs Middle School and the Girls Academic Leadership Academy, known as GALA, were named in the program, which recognizes exceptional schools for exemplary student outcomes.
“It is my pleasure to honor and recognize these 408 schools for their efforts to move the needle for student achievement, no matter what,” Thurmond said. “An excellent public education has the power to transform lives, and I commend the educators and school communities who have dedicated themselves to producing exemplary results. This year’s California Distinguished Schools represent the hard work of our middle and high school educators and school staff, who provide our secondary students with life-changing educational opportunities.”
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 innovation, talent and success in supporting students. The 2026 California Distinguished Schools, along with 2025 California Blue Ribbon Schools, 2026 Green Achievers, 2026 Exemplary Dual Enrollment Award Schools and 2025 Civic Learning Awards of Excellence, will be recognized on April 24 at the Disneyland Hotel in Anaheim.
Eligibility requirements include graduation rates and college and career readiness. The 2026 California Distinguished Schools were determined using data from the 2025 California School Dashboard. In keeping with statewide standards for accountability, schools must have at least 95% participation in statewide assessments to qualify. Hollywood High School, John Burroughs Middle School and GALA were among 75 Los Angeles Unifies School District campuses named to the program. For information and a full list of honorees, visit cde.ca.gov/ta/sr/cs/index.asp.