WUHS earns Distinguished School Honor

Wasco Union High School had the honor of being one of only 293 middle schools and high schools in California to be selected for the 2024 California Distinguished Schools Program.

This recognition, announced on Feb. 29 by State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond, highlights schools such as WHS that demonstrate excellence, growth, outstanding academic achievements and a commitment to fostering a positive school environment.

WHS is one of only two high schools in Kern County to receive the 2024 Distinguished Schools award.

A formal acknowledgment of WHS's distinction will take place at an awards ceremony in Anaheim on Friday, May 3.

"This recognition is a significant milestone, underscoring our school's commitment to closing the achievement gap and showcasing exceptional student performance," Principal Rusvel Prado said. "This accolade is a badge of honor and a reflection of our collective commitment to 'Believing in Education Excellence for ALL.' "

In 2023, Wasco Union High School students showed strong improvement in mathematics and English language arts. According to the California School Dashboard, Wasco students improved their ELA scores by nearly 19 points, and their math scores by more than 4 points, exceeding the state average on both measures.

"We are incredibly proud of our dedicated teachers, support staff and our students, whose commitment to excellence is recognized by this honor," Superintendent Kevin Tallon said.

"This award confirms what we already know: that Wasco High School is a school of high expectations where students can achieve great things."

Tallon added that the award speaks to how hard the students and staff have worked in recent years. "We know that students had social-emotional and academic needs that needed to be addressed after the pandemic, and I believe this indicates that Wasco High is doing that at a high level."

Wasco Union High School has about 1,700 students. It offers diverse academic and extracurricular programs, including an early college dual enrollment program that enables Wasco High students to earn an associate degree and/or certificate in one of several career and technical education programs.