Sun Valley Elementary Named National Blue Ribbon School

SAN RAFAEL, CA — San Rafael City Schools' Sun Valley Elementary School was among 33 in California and 329 across the nation named Blue Ribbon Schools by the U.S. Department of Education on Wednesday.

Schools were selected for the honor based on overall academic excellence or progress in closing achievement gaps, the Department of Education said.

“We could not be more proud of this recognition for Sun Valley,” said Michael Watenpaugh, superintendent of San Rafael City Schools. “The teachers, staff, students and families are most deserving of this significant honor. The award affirms the school’s outstanding academic program, as well as their model efforts to address students’ social-emotional needs.”

Schools are nominated for the award by the state department of education, and then complete a comprehensive application about school practices. Schools may apply for status as Exemplary High Performing or Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing.

According to a news release, Sun Valley Elementary was recognized in the category of Exemplary High Performing Schools, which means that it is among the state’s highest performing schools as measured by state assessments or nationally normed tests.

“With more than 500 students from a variety of socioeconomic and ethnic backgrounds, we have worked tirelessly to create an inclusive community that addresses all of our learners’ needs,” said Sun Valley Principal Julie Harris. “To achieve high levels of student achievement, we’ve invested in extensive professional development, and as a result, the classrooms are rich with rigor, engagement and joy and every child has the skills and supports to reach their full potential.”

According to the district, Watenpaugh, Harris and Literacy Coach Maggie Stevens will represent Sun Valley Elementary at an awards ceremony Nov. 7-8 in Washington, DC, to celebrate their hard-won achievement. Following the trip, there will also be a local celebration for the Sun Valley school community.

Image via Sun Valley Elementary School website