Four Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District elementary sites named 2023 California Distinguished Schools

The Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District (PYLUSD) is proud to announce that four elementary schools—Brookhaven, Bryant Ranch, Lakeview, and Linda Vista—have been named 2023 California Distinguished School, the state’s top award for campuses.

“On behalf of the Board of Education, congratulations to our four elementary schools on this outstanding achievement,” Superintendent Dr. Michael Matthews shared. “This recognition reflects our district’s commitment to being a dynamic learning community that works to prepare all students for success now and in the future. Exceptional student performance and a focus on closing achievement gaps are only made possible through the dedicated work of our teachers, classified staff, and administrators coupled with the unwavering support of our community.”

To select California Distinguished Schools, the California Department of Education (CDE) used multiple measures to identify eligible schools based on their performance on the state indicators as specified on the California School Dashboard. Schools were selected through an analysis of data reported through the 2022 Dashboard, including assessment results, chronic absenteeism, suspension rates, and socioeconomic data. The California Distinguished Schools award is celebrating its return this year after the COVID-19 pandemic temporarily suspended reporting of state and local student data. It rotates between elementary schools and secondary schools on an annual basis.

“California Distinguished Schools represent examples of not just excellent teaching, learning, and collaboration, but also highly successful, data-driven school efforts ranging from professional development for educators to mental health and social-emotional wellness strategies to address the needs of students and families,” State Superintendent Tony Thurmond shared in a press release.

Brookhaven, Bryant Ranch, Lakeview, and Linda Vista elementary schools are no strangers to the title California Distinguished School, having earned the same distinction several times in previous years. Brookhaven received the award in 2012, 2002, and 1987; Bryant Ranch in 2006, 2002, and 1993; Lakeview in 2014 and 2008; and Linda Vista in 2006 and 1993.

Notably, Brookhaven, Bryant Ranch, Lakeview, and Linda Vista elementary schools are four of only 38 schools in Orange County and 365 schools in the state to receive the California Distinguished Schools award for 2023.

To see the complete list of 2023 California Distinguished Schools or to learn more about the program, visit CDE’s website at https://www.cde.ca.gov/nr/ne/yr23/yr23rel01.asp.