California has revealed its list of 2026 Distinguished Schools, continuing a tradition that recognizes exceptional schools across the state.

This year’s list includes several familiar sites belonging to Fresno Unified, Kings Canyon Joint Unified, Clovis Unified, and Sanger Unified.

“It is my pleasure to honor and recognize these schools for their efforts to move the needle for student achievement, no matter what,” State Superintendent Tony Thurmond said. “An excellent public education has the power to transform lives, and I commend the educators and school communities who have dedicated themselves to producing exemplary results.”

The California Distinguished Schools Award, created in 1985, is a central way the state celebrates outstanding schools, districts, and educators.

The state will recognize the awardees at the Disneyland Hotel in Anaheim on April 24, 2026.

Distinguished School Criteria

This year’s list recognizes 408 schools, highlighting exemplary educational programs.

Those listed were exemplary high achievers, achievement gap closers, or beacons of opportunity.

High achievers are among the best performers in academic achievement for all students. Meanwhile, gap closers accelerate academic progress for two or more historically underserved groups.

Those in the “beacons of opportunity” category serve rural and Title 1 school communities and distinguish themselves through multiple student outcomes at very high-performance levels.

California determines school eligibility by California School Dashboard metrics. To qualify, schools must not have negatives such as very high suspensions or chronic absenteeism.

 Fresno Area Schools Recognized

The state highlighted schools from multiple local school districts, with the majority coming from Fresno Unified.

Those listed include a mix of traditional, specialized, and charter schools.

“We are incredibly proud that six Fresno Unified schools have been named,” said Superintendent Misty Her. “This recognition reflects the dedication of our educators, staff, students, and families who work every day to create schools where students can thrive.”

The list included two middle schools, Baird Middle and Computech Middle. Alongside them, the state named Design Science Middle College High School, Edison High, Duncan Polytechnical High, and Patino School of Entrepreneurship.

University High School, a charter school authorized by Fresno Unified, also earned the distinguished designation.

Reedley Schools Are Repeat Winners

The state recognized Reedley High School for a second time, and Reedley Middle College High School is celebrating its third recognition since 2021.

“Our school communities should be incredibly proud of this achievement,” said John Campbell, superintendent of Kings Canyon Unified. “These recognitions show we are on the right path, but they also challenge us to continue to keep taking it to the next level.”

Additionally, the state named Clovis Unified’s Buchanan High School.

“It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication our staff provides to students,” said principal Omar Hemaiden. “Buchanan High School is a special place, surrounded by caring staff and a supportive community. We are honored to be selected for this prestigious recognition.”

California also highlighted Sanger High School.

“Sanger High’s selection is a testament to the dedication, innovation, and high expectations that guide the work happening on campus every day,” Superintendent Dennis Wiechmann said.