Lodi, CA (September 21, 2023)--The U.S. Department of Education has announced that Middle College High is a National Blue Ribbon School for 2023. This national award honors public and private schools that close achievement and opportunity gaps and where students achieve high learning standards.
This year, 353 schools have been recognized as National Blue Ribbon Schools. Middle College High is among only 33 schools in California and the only school in San Joaquin County to receive this designation.
The school was also recognized as an “Exemplary High Performing School.” Exemplary High Performing Schools are among the state’s highest performing schools as measured by state assessments or nationally normed tests. This is the third time Middle College High has been named a National Blue Ribbon School. The school previously received this distinction in 2015 and 2008, respectively.
“Lodi Unified is proud of all Middle College High staff and students. This is a well-deserved distinction for the school. Middle College High provides rigorous academic instruction to students in a supportive environment, and offers unique learning opportunities to prepare students for future success,” said Superintendent Neil Young.
Middle College High is a collaboration between Lodi Unified and San Joaquin Delta College, and is accredited by the Western Association of School and Colleges Accrediting Commission for Schools. Middle College High enables students to experience a high quality college preparatory high school education with direct access to college.
“I am thrilled for our school to once again receive this distinction once again,” shared Vanessa Jara, principal of Middle College High.
“Our teachers and staff work diligently to provide excellent instruction and support for our students. Our students are committed to Middle College High School And San Joaquin Delta College. I feel very privileged to be part of the Middle College High School community,” said Jara.
Up to 420 schools may be nominated each year. The Department invites National Blue Ribbon School nominations from the top education officials in all states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, the Department of Defense Education Activity, and the Bureau of Indian Education.
With its 40th cohort, the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program has bestowed approximately 10,000 awards to more than 9,000 schools.
About Lodi Unified
Spanning 350 square miles in the San Joaquin Valley, Lodi Unified provides exceptional learning opportunities to over 28,000 students in Lodi, Stockton, and surrounding county areas. Lodi Unified strives to educate students for success through high quality instruction, a wide variety of Career Technical Education programs, joint efforts with higher education, an award winning Gifted and Talented program, effective support programs, and extended learning using digital devices. Lodi Unified offers unique opportunities for students and staff making it the premier education destination.