Four Magnolia Public Schools Campuses Recognized as 2026 California Distinguished Schools
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Thalia Velazquez, Director of Branding & Communications
March 10, 2026 Phone: (213) 647-1607 / E-mail: tvelazquez@magnoliapublicschools.org
PRESS RELEASE
Four Magnolia Public Schools Campuses Recognized as 2026 California Distinguished Schools
Los Angeles, CA — Magnolia Public Schools (MPS) is proud to announce that four of its campuses have been recognized as 2026 California Distinguished Schools, one of the highest honors awarded to public schools in the state by the California Department of Education. The California Distinguished Schools Program celebrates middle and high schools that demonstrate exceptional student performance, academic growth, and strong efforts to close achievement gaps. The recognition highlights schools that are making a measurable impact on student success while fostering a strong and supportive learning environment.
Magnolia’s 2026 California Distinguished Schools include:
Magnolia Science Academy - 4, 6-12 grade
Magnolia Science Academy - 5; 6-12 grade
Magnolia Science Academy - 6; 6-8 grade
Magnolia Science Academy - San Diego; 6-8 grade (California Blue Ribbon School)
"As a school serving historically underserved communities, it has always been my goal to support our students as they work to achieve positive academic growth,” stated Mrs. Elizabeth Rizzuto, former Principal of MSA-4. “In the 18 years since MSA-4 was established, this marks the first time MSA-4 has received such a prestigious recognition and is a testament to the dedication of all previous staff members and administrators who have built a strong foundation to make this possible. It’s an honor to pass the baton to Mr. Theis, the current Principal of MSA-4, to keep the tradition alive,” Rizzuto added.
The 2024-25 Annual Report showcases Magnolia Public Schools’ commitment to academic excellence and college readiness. Notably, all Magnolia high schools provide academic pathways that enable students to earn college credits prior to graduation. This initiative significantly contributes to students' overall success, as highlighted by recent data showing that 93% of the Class of 2025 received acceptance to two- or four-year colleges. This achievement underscores the effectiveness of the school's programs in preparing students for their future educational endeavors.
“We are deeply proud that four Magnolia schools have earned this prestigious recognition,” said Alfredo Rubalcava, CEO & Superintendent of Magnolia Public Schools. “It speaks to the work happening in our classrooms and the commitment of our teachers and staff who create positive learning environments where students are challenged and supported,” added Rubalcava.
This recognition follows another major milestone for the network, with Magnolia Science Academy – San Diego recently being named a 2025 California Blue Ribbon School, further highlighting the strong academic outcomes across Magnolia campuses.
Across the network, MPS maintains a 96.7% graduation rate, significantly higher than the California state average of 86.4%. Additionally, 88% meet the UC/CSU A–G requirements for college eligibility, and 83% of Magnolia students are the first in their families to attend college.
For more information, visit www.magnoliapublicschools.org, and follow us on Facebook @MagnoliaPublicSchools, Twitter @MagnoliaSchools, and Instagram @magnoliapublicschools.
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About Magnolia Public Schools
Magnolia Public Schools (MPS) are tuition-free charter schools with campuses throughout Southern California focused on Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math (STEAM)-based teaching to ensure students are well-rounded and college-ready. MPS offers smaller class sizes, individualized attention from teachers, as well as safe campuses that foster ideal learning conditions for students.