FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
LAGUNA BEACH UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
CONTACT: ANAKAREN UREÑO
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS AND ENGAGEMENT
949-497-7700 EXT. 5232

December 23, 2024

Thurston Middle School earns renewed California Schools to Watch designation

LAGUNA BEACH, Calif. – Thurston Middle School (TMS) has been redesignated as a California School to Watch. Aligned with the national Schools to Watch initiative provided by The National Forum, the program recognizes junior high, middle, and K-8 schools that meet rigorous criteria for academic excellence, developmental responsiveness, social equity, and whole-child support. 

The California Schools to Watch program is led by the California League of Educators and supported by the California Department of Education (CDE). This designation, first awarded to Thurston Middle School in 2019, requires schools to undergo an extensive application process and host a site visit conducted by middle school experts. To maintain their status as a School to Watch, campuses must be reevaluated every three years. Selected schools serve as models and mentors, sharing best practices to promote whole-child success for young adolescents. 

“This redesignation is the culmination of an intense and thorough process highlighting every aspect of our school. This honor belongs to every single member of our team—teachers, paraeducators, librarians, custodians, counselors, office staff, instructional and behavioral support staff, health team, administrators, and many others within our TMS family,” said TMS Principal Joe Vidal. “Every member of the team plays a vital role in creating a safe, welcoming, and inspiring environment where students can thrive, making Thurston an exceptional place,” he concluded. 

To renew its status, TMS engaged staff in a comprehensive self-reflection survey, compiled supporting evidence highlighting programs and innovations, crafted a narrative showcasing excellence across key areas, and provided detailed data to substantiate its achievements.

“At the heart of LBUSD is a relentless focus on continuous improvement and innovation,” said Superintendent Jason Viloria, Ed.D. “The partnerships and teamwork that drive Thurston Middle School’s accomplishments demonstrate the incredible outcomes that come from aligning our efforts toward a shared vision of excellence,” he concluded.

Thurston Middle School will be recognized with this distinction at the California League of Middle Schools Annual Conference in Monterey this March. To learn more about Laguna Beach Unified School District and stay updated on district news, visit www.lbusd.org, follow @LagunaBeachUSD on Instagram, and subscribe to the district newsletter. 

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