The California Department of Education on Monday named Golden Valley Middle School a 2017–2018 School to Watch-Taking Center Stage.

Golden Valley Middle School is one of just 22 high-performing, California middle schools to receive the honor, which four other Inland Empire schools also earned.  

These model schools demonstrate academic excellence, social equity, and responsiveness to the needs of young adolescents, said State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson.

“Congratulations to these schools for doing excellent work to help students believe in themselves, set high goals, and dream big,” Torlakson said. “These schools are outstanding examples of how educational innovations can keep students engaged and learning throughout a transitional time in their lives.”

Strong relationships between students and teachers is one of the hallmarks of Golden Valley Middle School, where students are divided into grade-level teams like Camelot, Excalibur, and Falcons.

Golden Valley is committed to nurturing a school culture where everyone works in partnership to do what is best for each and every student, said Principal Gabriel Diaz.

“Every day, we focus on helping students achieve and succeed, whether it be academically or socially,” Diaz said.  “And, we embrace the character traits of teamwork, positive behavior, and excellence.”

Schools to Watch designees will be recognized in Sacramento at the California Middle Grades Alliance annual luncheon on March 1.

Two District schools previously designated as Schools to Watch—Serrano and Curtis Middle Schools—have sustained progress and will retain their designation.

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