On October 2, 2007 the U.S. Department of Education announced that Mission Estancia had been selected as a National Blue Ribbon School. One of 27 schools in California selected, Mission Estancia was the only school in San Diego County to receive this award in 2007. The award recognizes those schools for their academic achievement and positive learning environments. The award is a true testimony to the combined efforts of staff, students and parents working together to build a school culture that promotes academic excellence, creativity, and a spirit of joy and collective recognition.
Local, County, and State Officials recognize Mission Estancia as a National Blue Ribbon School.
Mission Estancia was selected as a California Distinguished School in 2002 and 2006. Initiated in 1985, the California Distinguished Schools Program honors elementary and secondary schools in alternate years. The schools selected as 2002 Distinguished Schools were honored for serving as outstanding examples of successful teaching and learning, high standards for all students, strong family and community involvement, partnerships with the business community, safe and clean school environments, and modern technology.
This Distinguished School honor is extended to select schools in the state of California. In order to receive this award, the school staff must complete an extensive application indicating how the school meets specified criteria. Through a thorough review of these applications, the top schools are selected for a site visit by a review team. Approximately 225 schools from all elementary schools in the state of California are awarded this honor ever other year. Once selected as a California Distinguished School, the school cannot apply again for four years.
