San Mateo Schools Named California 2012 California Distinguished Schools

Two elementary schools in the San Mateo-Foster City School District have been named 2012 California Distinguished Schools, the district announced Thursday.

and schools were granted the honor for their "innovative education programs," which encourage students to learn and close the achievement gap, officials with the school district said.

“The schools we are recognizing today demonstrate the incredible commitment of California’s teachers, administrators, and school employees to provide a world-class education to every student, in spite of the financial hardships facing our state and our schools,” State Superintendent Tom Torlakson said in a statement.

“Their dedication is inspiring, and I applaud and admire their passion and persistence,” Torlakson said.

“We are proud to have two of our schools recognized as California Distinguished Schools,” said Dr. Cynthia Simms, San Mateo-Foster City School District Superintendent.

“It’s a strong indicator of the exemplary parent and community involvement, academic achievement, and commitment of teachers and school staff at both North Shoreview Montessori and Laurel Elementary Schools,” she said.

Laurel Elementary School Principal Susan Glines said, “We were ecstatic to have been chosen. We have been working very hard to improve instruction practices for all students, especially our English Learners, by adopting latest research based instructional strategies. Our school stands out because staff, administration and parents work together closely to save valuable programs and teachers work tirelessly to ensure all students are achieving by providing effective instructional practices.”

“North Shoreview Montessori Music & Art School provides a unique academic experience in which students learn through exploration and movement within a prepared environment. Students learn at their own pace and in multi-age settings,” Phyllis Harrison, North Shoreview Montessori Principal said.

“Children are being raised to be global citizens who understand their respective obligations to the earth. Our Montessori education continues into the middle school years and we attribute our success to the differentiated, small group instruction provided each student. Students feel supported by teachers and a school community who really know them and listen to them. We were delighted to hear that our Montessori school had been selected for such an honor,” Harrison said.