Riverside County, CA – The California Department of Education recently recognized 10 elementary schools in Riverside County for their exceptional performance. Two of the schools listed for the 2025 California Distinguished Schools are within the Beaumont Unified School District––Palm Innovation Academy and Starlight Elementary School.
The prestigious recognition is awarded to elementary schools who show “excellence and growth in academic achievement and ensuring a positive school climate,” according to the California Department of Education news release. Each school’s reported data is carefully analyzed to see if they meet criteria in one or two categories––“Closing the Achievement Gap” or “Exceptional Student Performance.”
The Beaumont Unified School District Board President responded to the news, stating, “This prestigious recognition underscores the dedication and hard work of the students, staff, administration, and families at Palm Innovation Academy and Starlight Elementary School, further solidifying the Beaumont School District's commitment to providing outstanding educational opportunities.
Since the distinguished award is granted to schools using data, it is no surprise that both of the elementary school principals spoke on their data-focused strategies. “We look at data trends––grade level, classroom level, and each individual at a granular level” to determine what is the most effective way to improve in an area, says Palm Innovation Academy Principal Idali Lopez. Assistant Principal Kathryn Mayfield added, “Without data, it’s just an opinion.”
Starlight Elementary School Principal Yesennia Casillas said, “We are deeply committed to making data-driven decisions. I regularly conduct data chats with teachers to analyze student performance after each benchmark assessment, which helps us pinpoint individual student needs. Teachers also hold data discussions with each student, setting personalized goals for growth.”
While the two principals are focused on tracking school metrics, they never lose sight of their reason why––the kids. Lopez says they’re “changing the lives of students for generations to come.” She further added, “When we change one student’s life through education, we are impacting the future of their kids, and even their grandkids.”
When Lopez became the principal at Palm Innovation Academy in 2022, the school was suffering some of the lowest District scores. Yet, in just two years, all that turned around because of her unwavering high expectations. “By receiving this award, we are breaking the harmful myth that educators should have ‘zipcode expectations.’ Educators need to believe their students can achieve high results regardless of their socioeconomic status. This is how we change the story for communities and generations.”
Both principals stressed that the “distinguished schools” is not their award alone––it is an award that reflects the hard work of everyone in the District––from students, parents, and neighbors. “It’s truly a collective effort,” says Casillas.
Superintendent Mays Kakish expressed her appreciation of the many people involved that made this recognition possible. “This recognition is the result of a lot of hard work. I couldn't be more proud of both school's team members for all they do. I am also grateful for having the support of our Board of Trustees who do so much for the community,” said Kakish.
The recognized schools will be awarded by the California Department of Education on Friday, May 30, 2025 at the Disneyland Hotel in Anaheim, California.