The following is a submission from SMMUSD.
Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District (SMMUSD) congratulates John Adams Middle School (JAMS) for being named a 2026 California Distinguished School. JAMS is recognized in the category of Exemplary High Achievers, honoring schools that demonstrate among the highest academic achievement in the state while ensuring continued progress for all student groups.
This marks a historic milestone for SMMUSD, as JAMS becomes the first secondary school in the District to receive California Distinguished School recognition in consecutive eligible cycles, having first earned the honor in 2024, the last year secondary schools were eligible.
“Sustained success like this comes from building coherence around a shared vision for teaching and learning,” said JAMS Principal Dr. Martha Chacon. “At JAMS, we focus on strong instruction, meaningful relationships and continuous improvement to support every student.”
The California Distinguished Schools program, presented by the California Department of Education, recognizes exemplary instructional programs across the state. The 2026 awards are based on data from the 2025 California School Dashboard and include multiple measures of student performance, academic growth and school climate.
JAMS was recognized under the Exemplary High Achievers category, which honors schools demonstrating high levels of academic achievement for all students while maintaining or increasing progress among historically underserved student groups.
“SMMUSD is incredibly proud of the continued excellence at John Adams Middle School,” said Superintendent Dr. Antonio Shelton. “To be recognized once is an achievement, but to earn this distinction again reflects a deep and sustained commitment to student success. JAMS exemplifies what is possible when strong instruction, high expectations and a focus on belonging and access come together to support every student.”
Schools selected for this recognition meet rigorous state criteria, including high levels of student achievement, progress across student groups and positive school climate indicators, as measured by the California School Dashboard.
The 2026 California Distinguished Schools will be honored at the California School Recognition Program Awards April 24 at the Disneyland Hotel in Anaheim.
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