Three Manhattan Beach elementary schools - Meadows, Pacific, and Pennekamp - have been named California Distinguished Schools for 2023.

The three were among 356 elementary schools in California that were selected for the statewide honor. 

The announcement marks the return of the California Distinguished Schools Program, which had been put on hold when the COVID-19 pandemic temporarily suspended the reporting of state and local student data.

To select California Distinguished Schools, the California Department of Education (CDE) uses multiple measures to identify eligible schools based on their performance on the state indicators as specified on the California School Dashboard.

For this year's award, schools were selected by analyzing data reported through the 2022 dashboard, including assessment results, chronic absenteeism, suspension rates, and socioeconomic data. Information regarding the 2022 dashboard can be found on the CDE California School Dashboard and System of Support web page.

“It is my pleasure to honor and recognize these 356 elementary schools for providing outstanding public education and opportunities to students," said California State Superintendent of Public Schools Tony Thurmond in a statement. "Their innovation and hard work have helped to ensure their students can heal, recover, and thrive—even in the toughest times. 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.”

“We are incredibly proud of our elementary schools that received this honor," said MBUSD Superintendent Dr. John Bowes. "The California Distinguished School Award reflects the dedication and passion of our school site teachers, classified staff, and administrators who stay focused each day on providing an exceptional educational experience to our students. This is also a true testament to our students’ hard work to achieve success and reach their highest potential.”

Elementary schools and middle and high schools are recognized in alternate years; therefore, awardees hold the title for two years.