The award recognizes districts that have been working as a team to implement the Department of Education's recommendations for middle-grades success, with nominations coming from middle school principals.
"District support is a critical component in building and sustaining high-quality programs for young adolescents," said state Supt. Tom Torlakson. "With inspired district leadership, middle-level princpals and teachers are empowered to implement high-quality education programs that provide students with the necessary knowledge and skills in preparation for college, career and civic life."
Dr. Betsy Cook, Marston Middle School Principal, and Martha Alvarez, Governmental Relations Director, accepted the award in a Sacramento ceremony on behalf of San Diego Unified School District. The award was later presented at a San Diego Unified Board of Education meeting.
According to the California Department of Education, members of the California Middle Grades Alliance include: Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID); Association of California School Administrators (ACSA); Curriculum and Instruction Steering Committee (CISC) Secondary Subcommittee of the California County Superintendents Educational Services Association (CCSESA); California Department of Education; California League of Middle Schools (CLMS); California Middle Grades Partnership Network; California School Boards Association (CSBA); California Teachers Association; Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP); and California Schools to Watch -- Taking Center Stage Program.
"Your district is to be commended for its continuing support for the middle grades and the inspiration it provides to schools throughout our state and nation," said Torlakson.
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