Wilson Elementary Named 2025 California Distinguished School

This prestigious recognition honors Wilson Elementary for its exceptional student performance and positive school climate.

State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond announced this year’s list, which includes 336 elementary schools across the state. The California Distinguished Schools Program celebrates public schools that demonstrate significant progress in closing achievement gaps or achieving high academic performance across multiple measures on the California School Dashboard.

“We are incredibly proud of the students, staff, and families at Wilson Elementary,” said Superintendent James Symonds. “This award reflects their tireless commitment to academic excellence, equity, and student well-being. Wilson’s success is a shining example of the great work happening across SGUSD.”

Schools recognized for "Exceptional Student Performance," like Wilson Elementary, are among the highest-achieving in the state based on indicators such as English language arts (ELA), math achievement, chronic absenteeism, and school climate. To be eligible, schools must also ensure that at least 95 percent of students participated in statewide assessments for two consecutive years.

The 2025 California Distinguished Schools will be honored at a recognition event on May 30, 2025, at the Disneyland Hotel in Anaheim. Schools that receive the Distinguished School title hold it for two years.

Wilson Elementary’s recognition adds to SGUSD’s ongoing tradition of excellence in education and reaffirms the district’s mission to provide an equitable, high-quality learning environment for every student.

For more information about the California Distinguished Schools Program, visit the CDE website.