News Summary
Simpson Elementary School in Rialto has been recognized as a 2024-2025 California Distinguished School. This honor, awarded by the California Department of Education, celebrates schools that demonstrate exemplary academic achievement and commitment to closing opportunity gaps for students. Only 336 elementary schools in California received this accolade. Principal Ramona Rodriguez credited the school community’s hard work and dedication, while a celebratory event is planned for May 30, 2025, at the Disneyland Hotel.
Exciting News for Rialto: Simpson Elementary Named Distinguished School!
Residents of Rialto, get ready to celebrate because Simpson Elementary School has just been honored as a 2024-2025 California Distinguished School! This impressive achievement was announced by the state’s own California Department of Education, creating quite a buzz in the community.
In total, 336 elementary schools from all over California received this well-deserved recognition. The award spotlights schools that showcase exemplary academic achievement, along with exceptional student performance. It’s not just about grades, though! These honors are also bestowed upon schools committed to closing opportunity gaps for all students.
How is a School Selected?
So, how does a school earn such a prestigious title? The California Distinguished Schools Program evaluates educational institutions based on various criteria pulled from the California School Dashboard. This means looking at academic performance, student engagement, and the overall school climate. Clearly, Simpson Elementary has ticked all the right boxes!
A Little Background on Simpson Elementary
Opened back in 1987, Simpson Elementary currently serves over 650 students and has a dedicated staff of around 70 members. This year, the school rolled out an exciting new Dual Language Immersion program, demonstrating its commitment to providing enriching opportunities for its students.
It’s especially noteworthy that Simpson ES is among only 22 schools in San Bernardino County to achieve this distinguished status. The recognition is a tremendous source of pride for the school and the entire community!
The Team Behind the Success
Principal Ramona Rodriguez attributes this achievement to the relentless hard work put in by students, teachers, staff, and the strong support from families. Her enthusiasm and dedication shine through as she speaks about the collaborative efforts that made this honor possible.
Dr. Judy D. White, the Interim Superintendent of Rialto Unified School District, adds that schools don’t apply for this kind of recognition; they are simply selected based on their exceptional performance. That must feel like a fantastic acknowledgment of everyone’s hard work!
Long-Standing Commitment
Veteran teacher Sandra Bowden has shared insights about the school’s long-standing commitment to setting high expectations and providing rigorous instruction. It’s evident that the foundation of success at Simpson Elementary runs deep, contributing to its track record of excellence.
Parent and Community Involvement
Parents Ruth and Guadalupe Gonzalez have expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the school’s community-driven efforts, which have positively impacted their children’s educational journey. Such feedback truly highlights the vital role that community involvement plays in shaping the experiences of students at Simpson.
Celebrating the Achievement
Looking ahead, the celebration of this accomplishment is just around the corner! Simpson Elementary will officially be honored at the California School Recognition Program Awards Ceremony set to take place on May 30, 2025, at the enchanting Disneyland Hotel in Anaheim. Certainly, it’s an event that everyone at the school and in the community is eagerly anticipating!
In conclusion, the recognition of Simpson Elementary as a California Distinguished School for 2024-2025 isn’t just a badge of honor; it reflects the collaborative spirit, dedication, and perseverance of an entire community. As Rialto residents, let’s rally around our school and celebrate this remarkable achievement!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Simpson Elementary Recognized as a 2024-2025 California Distinguished School
Additional Resources
- IECN: Simpson Elementary School Honored as 2025 California Distinguished School
- WV News: Simpson Elementary’s Gracie Lindsey Honors Friend
- KRCRTV: Bobbie Simpson Talks Swearing in as CA’s First Transgender School Board Member
- Action News Now: Bobbie Simpson Leads Race for Gateway Unified School Board Trustee
- Wikipedia: Elementary School

Author: Anaheim Staff Writer
Anaheim Staff Writer The Anaheim Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREAnaheim.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Anaheim, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as major conventions at the Anaheim Convention Center, including NAMM and VidCon, exciting games at Angel Stadium and Honda Center, and developments at Disneyland Resort Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Anaheim Chamber of Commerce and Visit Anaheim, plus leading businesses in hospitality, entertainment, and innovation that power the local economy As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECostaMesa.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.