Video above: This Nexstar Media video explains the role of the Department of Education. SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — There are 12 San Diego County elementary schools that have been selected for the 2025 California Distinguished Schools Program. Selected by officials with the California Departme nt of Education (CDE), schools that are recognized were determined to have demonstrated “exemplary achievements.” Eligibility CDE said it uses a multiple measures accountability system to identify eligible schools based on their performance and progress. Performance on these measures is reported through what’s called the California School Dashboard, which helps to identify school strengths and areas of improvement. Health concerns arise as county plans to reopen South Bay campground Schools were selected based on the following indicators: demonstrating excellence and growth in academic achievement and ensuring a positive school climate. Additionally, CDE said schools recognized for closing the achievement gap “enroll at least 40% of their students from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds and achieve accelerated academic growth for one or more historically underserved student groups.” Elementary, middle and high schools are recognized in alternate years, so awardees hold the title for two years. Local schools selected A total of 336 elementary schools across the Golden State were selected this year. A full list of those selected can be found here. While announcing the winners, State Superintendent Tony Thurmond said, "Excellent elementary schools play a critical role in the life outcomes of our young people. This year’s California Distinguished Schools celebration provides us with an opportunity to recognize the hard work of our elementary educators and school staff who help our students discover passions and experiences that will propel them.” Travelers at San Diego International Airport to enjoy live poetry experience The following San Diego County elementary schools were deemed "California Distinguished" in 2025: Dehesa Elementary, The Heights Charter Escondido Union, Heritage K-8 Charter Fallbrook Union Elementary, La Paloma Elementary Fallbrook Union Elementary, Live Oak Elementary Lakeside Union Elementary, Riverview Elementary San Diego County Office of Education, Dual Language Immersion North County San Diego County Office of Education, JCS - Manzanita San Diego Unified, Jonas Salk Elementary San Diego Unified, Benchley/Weinberger Elementary San Diego Unified, Doyle Elementary Solana Beach Elementary, Carmel Creek Elementary Solana Beach Elementary, Solana Pacific Elementary The 2025 California Distinguished Schools will be recognized at the Disneyland Hotel in Anaheim on May 30, 2025. ...read more read less