The secret is out: Griffiths Middle School is officially one of the best in the state! We are honored to be recognized as a 2026 California Distinguished School, an award that celebrates our high academic achievement and our “Where Everybody Belongs” (WEB) culture.
At Griffiths, we believe in giving students a head start on their future. Whether it’s through our powerhouse AVID program (shoutout to our Warren High mentors!), our cutting-edge Robotics and 3D Design classes, or our award-winning Advanced Band and Choir, our Thunderbirds are soaring to new heights.
“Our students come to school ready to lead and learn,” says the Griffiths leadership team. “Being named a Distinguished School validates the energy and heart our teachers and families pour into this campus every day.”
About the California Distinguished Schools Program
Established in 1985, the California Distinguished Schools Program is one of the state’s most prestigious honors for public schools. It recognizes campuses that demonstrate exemplary student performance or success in closing the achievement gap for historically underserved student groups.
How Schools Are Selected:
- Data-Driven: Schools do not apply for this award. Instead, they are automatically considered based on performance metrics from the California School Dashboard, including academic achievement, college and career readiness, and graduation rates.
- Strict Criteria: To qualify, schools must maintain at least 95% participation in statewide assessments and demonstrate a positive school climate, with low rates of chronic absenteeism and suspensions.
- Alternating Years: The program alternates annually; middle and high schools are recognized in even-numbered years (like 2026), while elementary schools are honored in odd-numbered years.
In 2026, only 408 middle and high schools statewide earned this distinction. These honorees will be celebrated at a formal recognition ceremony on April 24, 2026, at the Disneyland Hotel in Anaheim.
We are so proud of our Thunderbird family. Current and future students: the future is bright at Griffiths!