Beverly Vista Middle School Named 2026 California Distinguished School

Beverly Vista Middle School has been named a 2026 California Distinguished School by the California Department of Education, one of the state’s highest honors for public schools.

The recognition, announced by Beverly Hills Unified School District on March 11, places Beverly Vista among a select group of California schools recognized for strong academic outcomes, student growth and campuswide excellence.

According to BHUSD, Beverly Vista earned distinction in two categories, Exemplary High Achievers and Achievement Gap Closers. The designation recognizes schools that demonstrate strong student performance while also making measurable progress in narrowing achievement gaps.

The California Distinguished Schools Program is one of the state’s longest-running and most respected school recognition programs. Schools are selected based on indicators from the California School Dashboard, including academic achievement, student progress, school climate and participation in statewide assessments.

“This recognition reflects what makes Beverly Vista Middle School so special, a culture of high expectations, innovative teaching, and an unwavering focus on student success,” said Dr. Alex Cherniss, Superintendent of Beverly Hills Unified School District. “Our BVMS educators and staff work tirelessly every day to ensure students are challenged, supported, and inspired. This honor affirms the extraordinary work happening on campus and the strength of our entire school community.”

To qualify, schools must meet rigorous statewide accountability standards, including at least 95 percent participation in state testing, along with strong indicators in areas such as student achievement, attendance and school climate.

“As President of the Beverly Hills Unified School District Board of Education, I am incredibly proud of Beverly Vista Middle School for being recognized as a California Distinguished School. This prestigious honor reflects the extraordinary dedication of our students, teachers, administrators, and staff, and it underscores our district’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence,” said Judy Manouchehri, President of the BHUSD Board of Education.

“This recognition is a tremendous achievement for Beverly Vista Middle School and for our entire Beverly Hills Unified community. Being named a California Distinguished School is a testament to the hard work of our students and the exceptional commitment of our educators and staff who support them every day,” Manouchehri added.

The California Department of Education will formally recognize Beverly Vista Middle School at the California School Recognition Program Awards Ceremony on April 24, 2026, in Anaheim.

District officials said the designation reflects Beverly Vista’s continued commitment to student-centered learning and its guiding motto, “Unleashing Every Learner’s Potential.”

BHUSD said the recognition also aligns with the district’s broader focus on educational excellence, innovation and student success.

With the designation, Beverly Vista joins an elite group of California schools recognized for outstanding academic achievement, equitable student outcomes and a thriving school culture that helps prepare students for success in high school, college and beyond.