Beverly Vista Middle School Named a 2026 California Distinguished School

For Immediate Release 

March 11, 2026

Contact: Colby Gilardian

Public Information Officer

[email protected] 

(310) 871-8246 Mobile

Beverly Vista Middle School Named a 2026 California Distinguished School 

Beverly Hills, CA (March 11, 2026) – Beverly Hills Unified School District (BHUSD) proudly announces that Beverly Vista Middle School (BVMS) has been named a 2026 California Distinguished School by the California Department of Education, one of the state’s highest honors for public schools.

This prestigious recognition celebrates schools that demonstrate exceptional student performance and a strong commitment to closing achievement gaps. Beverly Vista Middle School earned distinction in two categories: Exemplary High Achievers and Achievement Gap Closers, underscoring the school’s success in advancing academic outcomes for all students.

The California Distinguished Schools Program, one of the longest-running and most respected award programs in the state, recognizes public schools that demonstrate exemplary instructional practices, strong academic outcomes, and a commitment to student growth. Schools are selected based on performance indicators from the California School Dashboard, including academic achievement, student progress, school climate indicators, and high participation in statewide assessments.

To qualify, schools must meet rigorous statewide accountability standards, including at least 95 percent participation in state assessments and strong indicators in areas such as student achievement, attendance, and school climate.

“This recognition reflects what makes Beverly Vista Middle School so special, a culture of high expectations, innovative teaching, and an unwavering focus on student success,” said Dr. Alex Cherniss, Superintendent of Beverly Hills Unified School District. “Our BVMS educators and staff work tirelessly every day to ensure students are challenged, supported, and inspired. This honor affirms the extraordinary work happening on campus and the strength of our entire school community.”

“As President of the Beverly Hills Unified School District Board of Education, I am incredibly proud of Beverly Vista Middle School for being recognized as a California Distinguished School. This prestigious honor reflects the extraordinary dedication of our students, teachers, administrators, and staff, and it underscores our district’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence,” said Judy Manouchehri, President of the BHUSD Board of Education.

“This recognition is a tremendous achievement for Beverly Vista Middle School and for our entire Beverly Hills Unified community. Being named a California Distinguished School is a testament to the hard work of our students and the exceptional commitment of our educators and staff who support them every day,” Manouchehri added.

The California Department of Education will formally recognize Beverly Vista Middle School at the California School Recognition Program Awards Ceremony on April 24, 2026, in Anaheim.

The designation affirms Beverly Vista’s commitment to its guiding motto, “Unleashing Every Learner’s Potential,” and reflects BHUSD’s districtwide focus on Educational Excellence, innovation, and student-centered learning.

With this recognition, Beverly Vista Middle School joins an elite group of California schools demonstrating outstanding academic achievement, equitable student outcomes, and a thriving school culture that prepares students for success in high school, college, and beyond.

View Photo

Beverly Vista Middle School in Beverly Hills Unified has been named a 2026 California Distinguished School, recognizing exceptional academic achievement and a strong commitment to student success.

Photo Credit: The Beverly Hills Unified School District

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