El Monte High School has been recognized as a 2026 California Distinguished School by the California Department of Education, placing it among top-performing campuses statewide and one of nine honorees across the San Gabriel Valley.
The annual recognition, announced by State Superintendent Tony Thurmond, highlights more than 400 middle and high schools for academic excellence, equity efforts, and student success outcomes.
District officials say the honor reflects sustained progress in student achievement and a commitment to supporting all learners.
State Recognition Highlights Student Achievement
The California Distinguished Schools Program, established in 1985, is one of the state’s highest honors for public schools. It recognizes campuses that demonstrate strong academic performance and measurable gains among historically underserved student groups.
El Monte High School earned distinction based on data from the 2025 California School Dashboard, which evaluates graduation rates, academic progress, and college and career readiness.
Thurmond praised this year’s honorees for their impact on student outcomes.
“An excellent public education has the power to transform lives,” Thurmond said. “These schools represent the hard work of educators and staff who provide life-changing opportunities for students.”
Criteria Focus On Equity And Performance
Schools are selected under multiple categories, including exemplary high achievers and achievement gap closers. These categories recognize campuses that rank among the highest in overall academic performance or show strong progress in closing achievement gaps.
A third category, introduced this year, highlights “beacons of opportunity,” recognizing schools that serve rural or Title I communities and achieve strong outcomes across multiple measures.
Eligibility is determined through statewide accountability data, and schools must meet strict requirements, including at least 95 percent participation in standardized assessments. Schools with high suspension rates or chronic absenteeism are not eligible.
Officials note that schools are automatically considered and do not apply for the designation.
Regional Recognition Across San Gabriel Valley
El Monte High School is one of nine schools in the San Gabriel Valley to receive the 2026 designation, reflecting broader regional progress in education.
The recognition places the school among a select group of campuses demonstrating both academic excellence and equitable outcomes for students.
“This accomplishment is a testament to the dedication and collaborative efforts of the entire school community under the leadership of Principal Eddie Cuevas, whose focus on high expectations, equity, and continuous improvement has made this possible,” said Superintendent Edward Zuniga.
Community Impact And Continued Progress
Honorees will be formally recognized at an awards ceremony on April 24, 2026, at the Disneyland Hotel in Anaheim. The event will also celebrate other statewide honors, including California Blue Ribbon Schools and Civic Learning Awards recipients.
District leaders say the award reflects a broader commitment to educational excellence across El Monte and continued investment in programs that support student achievement.
“El Monte High School’s success is a source of pride for our entire community,” Zuniga said.
For more information about the program and selection criteria, visit the California Department of Education California Distinguished Schools webpage at https://www.cde.ca.gov/ta/sr/cs/, where the state outlines how schools are recognized for academic achievement, equity, and student success.
