Four local elementary schools have achieved top marks with California’s Department of Education. Washington Open in the Santa Clara Unified School District (SCUSD), Cherry Chase Elementary in the Sunnyvale School District (SSD) and Murdock-Portal and Chester W. Nimitz elementary schools in the Cupertino Union School District (CUSD) were all named California Distinguished Schools this year.
“Recognition as a California Distinguished School is a high bar, and we are exceptionally proud of the Washington Open staff and community for their work to create dynamic and engaging educational experiences for their students,” said SCUSD Superintendent Dr. Gary Waddell. “Their work to reach and teach every child is exemplary, and we are proud that their efforts have been recognized by the state of California!”
“Being recognized as a California Distinguished School is a tremendous honor, and we are incredibly proud of our staff, students, and families for this achievement,” said Washington Open Principal Heidi Pilawski. “At our school, we are deeply committed to educating the whole child—not just academically, but also socially, emotionally, and physically. This is accomplished through the strong relationships we foster among students, families, and staff. We are thrilled that these efforts have been recognized by the state of California.”
Only 336 elementary schools statewide have received the prestigious award, which is handed out to elementary schools every other year.
Cherry Chase in the SSD received the award two years ago and is returning to the list. Principal Gloria Marchant was thrilled with the honor.
“As the principal of Cherry Chase Elementary, I am so proud of our fantastic staff and their collaborative efforts to support each student based on their unique strengths and needs,” said Marchant. “As a result, our students are achieving remarkable scores in reading and math! It’s wonderful to see how the school is successfully helping all students improve their learning, especially those who might need a little extra support.
“This recognition as a California Distinguished School truly reflects the unwavering dedication of our outstanding teachers and staff,” Marchant continued. “Their commitment to providing an exceptional education, creating a joyful community, and nurturing lifelong learners is inspiring. We are incredibly proud of their hard work ensuring every student feels safe, valued, and ready to thrive in a diverse world filled with exciting possibilities!”
In CUSD, Murdock-Portal also received recognition in 2023, while Nimitz Elementary is making its first appearance in more than four years.
“I am incredibly proud of our students and staff for receiving this honor. The continued dedication of our exceptional staff and supportive families continues to impact student learning in a multitude of positive ways, including student growth and academic achievement,” said CUSD Superintendent Stacy Yao. “CUSD prioritizes future-ready learning and social-emotional wellness of every student. Receiving this honor illustrates how prioritizing personal learning for each student creates opportunities for targeted learning gains. Strong instructional strategies, paired with an incredibly supportive parent community, is the reason why CUSD continues to excel.”
California Distinguished Schools are singled out either for closing the achievement gap or demonstrating exceptional student performance. Exceptional means the school’s students receive high marks in English Language Arts (ELA) and math.
To see the other schools that made this year’s list of California Distinguished Schools, visit the state’s website at www.cde.ca.gov and search “2025 Distinguished Schools.”
