Paloma Valley High named 2021 Distinguished School

Paloma Valley High School was one of only five high schools in Riverside County to receive recognition as a 2021 California Distinguished School, as selected by the California Department of Education.

A news release this week stated that the CDE “identifies and awards eligible schools based on performance and progress on state indicators specified on the California School Dashboard, the state’s accountability and continuous improvement system. Indicators include test scores, suspension rates, and conditions and climate.”

The 121 middle and high schools honored this week were added to a list of honored schools that began with 102 honored schools announced in March.

“These additional high schools join the ranks of all 2021 California Distinguished Schools who are being recognized for this distinction because of their exceptional record to provide for all students and their commitment to data-driven efforts that prepare students for college and career,” said State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond. “Our thanks go to the entire communities surrounding these schools, including the teachers, administrators, and classified employees as well as the students and their families who, through teamwork, all accomplished this impressive achievement together.”

Elementary schools and middle and high schools are recognized in alternate years; therefore, awardees hold the title for two years. Elementary schools will be honored again next year.

“So in a nutshell, we are AWESOME,” wrote Paloma Valley principal Jennifer Thomasian in an email. “And not just awesome at one thing, but awesome at all the things... and not just awesome with one group of kids, but awesome with each and every kid!

“I am so proud of each and every staff and student that works every day to make our school amazing. Well done, Wildcats!”