De Anza High School was awarded a California Gold Ribbon yesterday in recognition of its successful adoption of cutting edge academic practices.

The California Gold Ribbon is awarded to schools that have successfully adopted a model program for new academic content and performance standards. The model — which can be adopted by other local schools — involves standards-based activities, projects, and techniques aimed at academic gains in English language, mathematics, science.

The Richmond school is one of 180 high schools in California to receive the Gold Ribbon. The state has over 1,300 high schools, making this a select honor.

"These schools are academically successful, vibrant, and innovative centers of learning and teaching," State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson said in a press release. "They provide great examples of the things educators are doing right—embracing rigorous academic standards, providing excellence and creativity in teaching, and creating a positive school climate.” 

To learn more about the California Gold Ribbon, click here.

Photo courtesy wikimedia.