Six LBUSD Schools Named 2026 California Distinguished Schools, Including First-Time Honors for Two High Schools

Six Long Beach Unified schools have been named 2026 California Distinguished Schools, one of the state’s highest honors for public schools. The recognition highlights campuses demonstrating strong academic achievement and progress in supporting all students.

The schools recognized are California Academy of Mathematics and Science, Ernest S. McBride Sr. High School, Eunice Sato Academy of Math & Science, Helen Keller Middle School, Millikan High School, and Stanford Middle School. Millikan High School and McBride High School have earned the California Distinguished Schools recognition for the first time.

The recognition was announced by California State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond. Additional information is available in the California Department of Education news release.

“These six schools reflect what is possible when talented educators, dedicated families, and hardworking students come together around a shared commitment to learning and student success,” Superintendent Dr. Jill Baker said. “We are incredibly proud of these school communities and grateful for the leadership and collaboration that help our students succeed.”

Principals at each campus credited the recognition to the dedication of their students, staff, and families.

“This recognition reflects the curiosity, hard work, and collaboration that define our school community,” said Cheryl Cornejo, principal of California Academy of Mathematics and Science. “Our students and staff challenge one another every day to think deeply and push learning further.”

At McBride High School, serving more than 600 students in specialized pathways, Principal Stephanie Dunn emphasized the importance of fostering a sense of belonging on campus, which she considers crucial for academic success. “When students feel connected to school, they tend to perform better, and this collective effort has been instrumental in improving our academic results," she explained to the Long Beach Post. “Our students show tremendous pride in their school and their learning, and this honor reflects the commitment of our educators, families, and community partners who support them every step of the way.” 

“We are proud of our Sato dragons and the strong culture of support and learning we have built together,” said Ronnie Coleman, principal of Eunice Sato Academy of Math & Science. “This recognition belongs to our entire school community.”

“This honor recognizes and celebrates the hard work and dedication of our Keller community, and their commitment to the success of every student,” said Dawn Lomeli, principal of Helen Keller Middle School. 

“This recognition reflects the strong tradition of excellence at Millikan and the dedication of our students, teachers, and families,” said Dr. Stacie Alexander, principal of Millikan High School. For Dr. Alexander, being recognized as a distinguished school is “the validation that we’re on the right track and that we’re focusing on the right things. What teachers do on a daily basis matters and does have impact,” she noted with the Long Beach Post.

“Stanford Middle School is proud of the collaborative spirit that defines our campus,” said Dow Lawson, principal of Stanford Middle School. “This honor reflects the work of our entire school community.”

The California Distinguished Schools program recognizes campuses that demonstrate exceptional student outcomes and progress in closing opportunity gaps for historically underserved students. The recognition reflects Long Beach Unified’s continued focus on ensuring every student is supported, challenged, and prepared for success in college, career, and life.

Read more from the news release here and from the Long Beach Post.