Overview

Cerritos Elementary has been recognized as a finalist for an award by the National Center for Urban School Transformation, highlighting its achievements in a challenging urban educational environment. The school is one of only 22 nationwide to receive this honor, emphasizing its commitment to high academic performance among diverse student populations.

The award specifically acknowledges schools that demonstrate exceptional student achievement, attendance, and behavior, particularly among students from various ethnic backgrounds, English learners, and those from low-income households.

Key details

  • Cerritos Elementary is a finalist for an award from the National Center for Urban School Transformation.
  • It is one of 22 schools across the United States recognized for high student achievement.
  • The awards focus on schools in metropolitan areas serving diverse populations.
  • Finalist schools show high academic performance, attendance, and positive behavior among students.
  • Cerritos is one of four schools in California to achieve this finalist status.
  • Dr. Joseph F. Johnson, Jr., executive director of the National Center, praised the finalists for exceeding state averages despite challenges.
  • The school achieved an API score of 875 in 2013, significantly higher than the state target of 800.
  • Cerritos Elementary's API score improved by 122 points since 2008.
  • More than 80% of students come from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds.
  • Many students' parents do not have high school diplomas, qualifying them for free or reduced-price lunches.
  • Principal Perla Chavez-Fritz emphasized the importance of teamwork and parental support in achieving this recognition.
  • This year, Cerritos Elementary also became eligible for the California Distinguished Schools award and won it.

Context

The recognition of Cerritos Elementary as a finalist reflects the school’s dedication to fostering an inclusive and effective learning environment, particularly for students facing socioeconomic challenges. The acknowledgment from a national organization underscores the significant progress made by the school community.

What happens next

Cerritos Elementary will continue to build on its success and may participate in further recognition opportunities, leveraging its recent achievements to enhance educational outcomes and community engagement.

What we don't know yet

Details regarding the specific criteria for the award, the selection process for finalists, and the timeline for the announcement of the final award winners have not been confirmed.