Two PVPUSD Schools Named 2026 California Distinguished Schools

PALOS VERDES, CA — Two intermediate schools in the Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District have been named 2026 California Distinguished Schools by the California Department of Education.

Palos Verdes Intermediate School and Ridgecrest Intermediate School were among 408 middle and high schools across California selected for the recognition. The California Distinguished Schools Program recognizes schools for their performance and progress on specific state indicators.

“We are very proud of Ridgecrest and Palos Verdes Intermediate for receiving this outstanding recognition,” said Superintendent Dr. Devin Serrano. “Becoming a Distinguished School requires the collective effort of students, staff, families, and community members. It is the hard work and dedication of our school communities that allow our district to provide meaningful learning opportunities and ensure every student succeeds.”

The California Distinguished Schools Program, established in 1985, recognizes public schools that demonstrate innovation, strong instructional programs, and measurable academic progress.

“It is my pleasure to honor and recognize these 408 schools for their efforts to move the needle for student achievement, no matter what,” said State Superintendent Tony Thurmond. “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.”

The 2026 California Distinguished Schools will be honored during a statewide celebration at the Disneyland Hotel in Anaheim on April 24, 2026.

To learn more about the California Distinguished Schools Program, visit the California Department of Education website: cde.ca.gov/ta/sr/cs/