A program of the National Forum,
run by the California League of Middle Schools
California's 23rd Congressional District
Schools to Watch (STW) is active in 22 states nationwide, creating a vibrant community of middle schools committed to achieving and sustaining success. STW recognizes schools that demonstrate a trajectory toward excellence while fostering a culture of innovation, growth, and continuous improvement.
2026 Highlights
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Melva Davis Academy of Excellence
↻ 2026 REDESIGNATED SCHOOL
Kathy Youskievicz, Principal
(760) 530-7650
15831 Diamond Rd, Victorville, CA 92394
Adelanto Elementary School District
SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT
Melva Davis Academy of Excellence coordinates data-informed instruction and intervention, accessible counseling and wellness services, and electives, clubs, arts, and athletics to support academic growth and student well-being. Staff use these connected systems to identify needs, provide timely intervention, and create meaningful opportunities. Students gain multiple pathways to build confidence, explore interests, strengthen relationships, and develop a lasting sense of belonging.
✓ PLCs use shared assessments and student data to plan targeted instruction and intervention.
✓ Advisory and mentoring provide regular check-ins, goal setting, and relationship-building.
✓ Athletics and fitness programs strengthen teamwork, wellness, participation, and school connection.
★ Project Lead the Way is offered as a science-connected elective, expanding hands-on STEM learning.
George Visual and Performing Arts Magnet and Middle School
★ 2025 NEWLY DESIGNATED
Sytarria Ridley-Kadzombe, Principal
(760) 246-8231
10650 Bartlett Avenue, Adelanto, CA 92301
Adelanto Elementary School District
SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT
George Visual and Performing Arts Magnet and Middle School combines targeted tutoring, social-emotional learning, and student leadership to strengthen academic growth, student well-being, and belonging. Staff use these connected systems to identify needs, provide timely intervention, and create meaningful opportunities. Students gain multiple pathways to build confidence, explore interests, strengthen relationships, and develop a lasting sense of belonging.
✓ Integrated English learner supports strengthen language development and access to grade-level instruction.
✓ Advisory and mentoring provide regular check-ins, goal setting, and relationship-building.
✓ Student leadership and voice shape school activities, decision-making, and community culture.
★ The school earned PBIS Gold recognition in September 2024 after receiving Bronze recognition in 2023.
Twentynine Palms Junior High School
↻ 2024 REDESIGNATED SCHOOL
Nick Aguilera, Principal
(760) 367-9507
5798 Utah Trail, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277
Morongo Unified School District
SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT
Twentynine Palms Junior High School combines targeted tutoring, a coordinated MTSS framework, and student leadership to strengthen academic growth, student well-being, and belonging. Staff use these connected systems to identify needs, provide timely intervention, and create meaningful opportunities for students. Through supportive relationships, enrichment, and shared expectations, students build confidence, explore interests, strengthen skills, and develop a lasting sense of belonging.
✓ Targeted academic intervention provides timely support for students needing additional help.
✓ A schoolwide MTSS framework coordinates academic, behavioral, and social-emotional support.
✓ Arts and music programs build creativity, teamwork, confidence, and opportunities for performance.
★ TPJHS does have a PTO – the Elite 29, but with 361 students, staff only have about ten families involved.
Vanguard Preparatory School
↻ 2024 REDESIGNATED SCHOOL
Dawn Bowman, Principal
(760) 961-1066
12951 Mesquite Road, Apple Valley, CA 992308
Apple Valley Unified School District
SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT
Vanguard Preparatory School combines collaborative professional learning communities, schoolwide PBIS, and student leadership to strengthen academic growth, student well-being, and belonging. Staff use these connected systems to identify needs, provide timely intervention, and create meaningful opportunities for students. Through supportive relationships, enrichment, and shared expectations, students build confidence, explore interests, strengthen skills, and develop a lasting sense of belonging.
✓ PLCs use shared assessments and student data to plan targeted instruction and intervention.
✓ PBIS and restorative practices reinforce clear expectations, reflection, accountability, and positive relationships.
✓ Kindness Club gives students meaningful leadership, voice, and responsibility.
★ NISE Certification: The school's elementary National Institute for STEM Education (NISE) Certification program not only prepares students for middle school, but also instills a passion for science and robotics.