4 Campuses Earn ‘Top School’ Honors

Four schools in the El Monte City School District are being touted as 2020 Top Los Angeles County Public Schools for ensuring high rates of success in math and English language arts for low-income Latino students.

LeGore School was honored for achieving high rates of success for elementary students in both areas and Cleminson for success in English for elementary students. Gidley and Durfee schools were praised for their success for middle school English.

“These honors recognize the dedication and commitment of our team of educators and students,” Superintendent Dr. Maribel Garcia said. “I’m tremendously proud of all of our schools for their efforts every day to ensure student success.”

The annual report is produced by nonprofit Innovate Public Schools in partnership with the USC Sol Price Center for Social Innovation and the USC Rossier Center on Education Policy, Equity and Governance.

Innovate Public Schools highlights institutions that are closing the achievement gap for low-income African American and Latino students.

The 2020 list recognizes 278 schools across Los Angeles County, based on annual scores on California state standardized tests as well as other indicators, such as suspension rates.

Cleminson and LeGore were also recognized in 2019, when 279 schools were listed. Cleminson, LeGore and Durfee are among five El Monte City Schools also honored this year as California Distinguished Schools for their academic prowess.

To be considered for the Top Public Schools list, a school must enroll at least 43 percent Latino students or 4 percent African American students. In Los Angeles County, 1,856 of 2,075 schools are eligible for listing.