San Diego High's School of International Studies
has been named a federal Department of Education's National Blue Ribbon
School for 2012, the only school receiving the award in San Diego
County, one of just 307 nationwide.
Overall academic excellence or
progress in improving student academic achievement levels has brought
the schools the honors. The U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan will
honor 257 public and 50 private schools at a recognition ceremony in
Washington, DC on November 12-13. Each school will receive a plaque and a
flag to signify their status as National Blue Ribbon Schools.
"This
is such great news for the students, teachers and staff of the School
of International Studies," said Dr. Nellie Meyer, Deputy Superintendent
for Academics. "This is the type of recognition that enhances the value
of our students' high school diploma."
The School of International
Studies is one of the five small schools at San Diego High School,
which is located at 1405 Park Blvd. at the edge of downtown San Diego.
The focus at this magnet school is the International Baccalaureate
program and the opportunity for students to receive the highly coveted
IB diploma. The school has won many awards and regularly places high on
lists of the best high schools in the country.
"The dedication of
our students, teachers, parents and staff to education is what has made
this possible," said Dr. Carmen Garcia, Principal of International
Studies. "It shows that a challenging curriculum and a top notch faculty
and staff encourages students to learn and makes them want to learn
more."
"I congratulate these dedicated schools for receiving such a
prestigious national honor,” said State Superintendent Tom Torlakson,
who nominated the schools earlier this year. “This recognition was made
possible by motivated teachers, administrators, and staff supported by
involved parents who worked together to provide their students a firm
foundation for a lifetime of learning.”
More information on the Blue Ribbon School Program is available on the US Department of Education website.
"Our
nation has no greater responsibility than helping all children realize
their full potential," Duncan said. "Schools honored with the National
Blue Ribbon Schools award are committed to accelerating student
achievement and preparing students for success in college and careers.
Their work reflects the conviction that every child has promise and that
education is the surest pathway to a strong, secure future."