CDCR Distinguished Schools
Program Information
The CDCR Distinguished Schools (DS) program recognizes exemplary achievements made in the field of correctional education within all California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) accredited schools. The program was created to distinguish and celebrate the CDCR schools that have made exceptional gains in implementing academic and career technical content and performance standards adopted by the Office of Correctional Education (OCE). It also provides the opportunity to shine a light on the successes and life-changing experiences of the academic teachers, vocational instructors, and incarcerated individuals that normally are not seen behind prison walls.
The DS program is rooted in Richard Dufour’s work on Professional Learning Communities (PLC) and its best practices for reforming under-performing schools into high-achieving exemplars. It is based on a cycle of continuous improvement that focuses on student achievement and success through quality first instruction, timely needed academic support, and authentic educator self-assessment. Through Dufour’s PLC process and the commitment of quality education by correctional staff, the CDCR schools have state of the art Career Technical Education (CTE) programs and quality academic courses.
2023 Distinguished School Award Recipient
The Mountain Oaks Adult Education Center, located inside California Medical Facility (CMF) received the 2023 Distinguished School Award. Visit Inside CDCR to learn more.
2021 Distinguished School Award Recipient
The Vista Del Rio Adult School, located inside California Rehabilitation Center received the 2021 Distinguished School Award. Visit Inside CDCR to learn more.
2019 Distinguished School Award Recipient
The Robert E. Burton Adult School, located inside San Quentin Rehabilitation Center, received the 2019 Distinguished School Award. Visit Inside CDCR to learn more.
Eligibility
The DS process provides CDCR Institution Wardens, Principals, and other executive leaders the opportunity to shine a light on the outstanding programs they have built. The DS application and review process is neither a mandate nor a requirement. The distinction is intended to be a collaborative one, rooted in the strong belief that the schools inside the CDCR prisons deserve the recognition and acclaim that will accompany the Distinguished School Award honor. All CDCR schools are welcomed to apply.