The Gary and Jerri-Ann Jacobs High Tech High and High Tech Middle North County were recently announced as ‘California Distinguished Schools’ for 2024. The prestigious recognition is bestowed upon schools that demonstrate exceptional student performance and help narrow the achievement gap.

State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond announced this year’s Distinguished Schools, celebrating their innovation, talent, and success in supporting students. In announcing 293 secondary school honorees from across California, Superintendent Thurmond said they provide exemplary public education to all students.

“Excellent middle schools and high schools play a critical role in the life outcomes of our young people,” State Superintendent Thurmond said.

HTH, a charter network of 16 schools in San Diego County, is among the handful of systems to have two honorees.

Gary and Jerri-Ann Jacobs High Tech High, established in September 2000, serves students in grades 9-12. “Teachers are doing really rich projects, and through rich projects, they are attending to content and making sure they are assessing students’ growth in different content areas as well as students’ overall development,” said Fahima Ahmed, HTH Site Director. “The idea behind project-based learning is that when you do rich projects, students should be learning better. Our focus has been on doing rich projects and supporting kids’ learning in every way. That is showing up in their test scores but testing is not an isolated focus. We acknowledge that there is testing happening, but we are providing opportunities for kids to practice and strengthen their academic skills while they are exploring and doing cool stuff.” 

High Tech Middle North County is proud to serve students in 6th, 7th, and 8th grades. At this pivotal stage in their educational journey, students are guided by designated faculty advisors who offer academic, emotional, and social support. High Tech Middle North County’s commitment to a well-rounded education ensures that students are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in high school and beyond. “High Tech Middle North County is honored to be recognized as a California Distinguished School,” said Kelly Jacob, HTMNC site director. “This designation is a testament to our educators’ incredible work and dedication to engaging students in authentic projects in a supportive environment that allows them to thrive.”

One key factor that sets HTH apart is its focus on creating a positive and inclusive school environment. HTH campuses strive to create a welcoming, more personalized learning environment where all students feel valued and supported. This commitment to inclusivity has helped foster a sense of belonging among students and contributed to overall success. 

Community Engagement

High Tech High also strongly emphasizes community engagement, encouraging students to give back and make a positive impact in their communities. Through service-learning projects and community service opportunities, students learn the importance of civic responsibility and develop a sense of empathy and compassion for others.

The 2024 California Distinguished Schools will be formally honored at an awards ceremony in Anaheim on May 3. “This year’s California Distinguished Schools celebration provides us with an opportunity to recognize the hard work of our secondary educators and school staff who help our young adults discover passions and access college- and career-ready experiences that will propel them through life,” State Superintendent Thurmond added.