Hillview Middle School earns 2024 California Distinguished School designation

Menlo Park City School District’s only middle school, Hillview, has been honored as a California Distinguished School for 2024. Hillview is one of only five middle schools in San Mateo County to earn this recognition.

California Secretary of Education Tony Thurmond announced the list on February 29, 2024, stating that schools were selected by analyzing data reported through the 2023 Dashboard, with a focus on demonstrating excellence and growth in academic achievement and ensuring a positive school climate, and that schools are recognized for exceptional student performance based on achieving exemplary performance in English Language Arts (ELA) and math.

Elementary schools and middle and high schools are recognized in alternate years; therefore, awardees hold the title for two years. Last year, all of MPCSD’s elementary schools also received the award.

MPCSD Superintendent Kristen Gracia commends Hillview for its focus on teaching and learning, as well as a strong commitment to students’ social-emotional wellness, that enabled the school to earn this designation. “I am so proud of the student-centered work our Hillview team is doing. They continue to provide a robust academic program while also nurturing students’ mental health and creating the conditions that foster a strong sense of belonging for every student. Middle school years are often challenging for students in many ways, and Hillview teachers and leaders have created a special place that really attends to the needs and interests of our middle school kids.”

Note: in InMenlo’s coverage area, Corte Madera in the Portola Valley Elementary district also earned Distinguished California School designation.