A program of the National Forum,
run by the California League of Middle Schools
California's 46th 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
2
2
0
Fitz Intermediate Language Academy
★ 2026 NEWLY DESIGNATED
Louie Gómez, Principal
(714) 663-6351
4600 W McFadden Ave, Santa Ana, CA 92704, USA
Garden Grove Unified School District
SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT
Fitz Intermediate Language Academy coordinates data-informed instruction and intervention, positive-behavior and restorative practices, and student voice and leadership 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.
✓ PBIS and restorative practices reinforce clear expectations, reflection, accountability, and positive relationships.
✓ Athletics and fitness programs strengthen teamwork, wellness, participation, and school connection.
★ In September 2024, ABC News celebrated music teacher Nora Hernández, who gained national recognition from the Country Music Association as one of only 30 teachers nationwide to receive the prestigious Music Teacher of Excellence Award in Nashville, Tennessee.
South Junior High School
★ 2026 NEWLY DESIGNATED
Yolanda Mejia, Principal
714-999-3667
2320 E South St, Anaheim, CA 92806, USA
Anaheim Union High School District
SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT
South Junior High School coordinates college-and-career preparation, positive-behavior and restorative practices, and student voice and leadership to support academic growth and student well-being. 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 literacy instruction uses small groups and progress monitoring to strengthen reading skills.
✓ PBIS and restorative practices reinforce clear expectations, reflection, accountability, and positive relationships.
✓ Student leadership and voice shape school activities, decision-making, and community culture.
★ Student artwork and woodshop projects were exhibited at the Laguna Art Museum as part of a student-centered showcase.
Nicolas Jr. High School
↻ 2025 REDESIGNATED SCHOOL
Jose Varela, Principal
(714) 447-7775
1100 W. Olive Avenue, Fullerton, CA 92833
Fullerton School District
SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT
Nicolas Jr. High School combines data-informed instruction, social-emotional learning, and clubs and enrichment 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.
✓ AVID and college-and-career programs build organization, academic confidence, and future readiness.
✓ Counseling and wellness services provide coordinated social-emotional and behavioral support.
✓ Student leadership and voice shape school activities, decision-making, and community culture.
★ Staff regularly review instructional materials to align them with the school’s equity goals, ensuring that they not only meet academic standards but also promote inclusivity.
Ladera Vista Junior High School of the Arts
↻ 2024 REDESIGNATED SCHOOL
William Lynch, Principal
714-447-7765
1700 E. Wilshire Avenue, Fullerton, CA 92831
Fullerton School District
SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT
Ladera Vista Junior High School of the Arts combines data-informed instruction, social-emotional learning, and community partnerships 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 mathematics support uses tutoring, small groups, and progress monitoring to build proficiency.
✓ Counseling and wellness services provide coordinated social-emotional and behavioral support.
✓ Family and community partnerships expand student support, enrichment, and engagement.
★ Staff continue to offer a Middle College program in collaboration with Fullerton College to provide students with the opportunity to explore different college and career pathways while earning college credit.
Portola Middle School
★ 2023 NEWLY DESIGNATED
David Mannen, Principal
714-997-6361
270 N Palm Dr, Orange, CA 92868, USA
Orange Unified School District
SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT
Portola Middle School combines schoolwide AVID strategies, monthly PREP Days, and technology-rich learning to prepare students for college and careers. Staff use i-Ready data, PLC collaboration, C-STEM, co-teaching, and targeted support classes to respond to student needs. Verizon-connected Chromebooks and an Innovative Learning Lab expand access to immersive media, design, programming, AI, and robotics, while awards, athletics, music, and student leadership strengthen belonging.
✓ Monthly PREP Days connect students with high school CTE pathways and college-and-career planning.
✓ Schoolwide AVID and WICOR strategies build organization, rigor, and college readiness.
✓ Verizon-connected devices and an Innovative Learning Lab expand access to advanced technology.
★ Portola was the first middle school in Orange County to open a $400,000 Verizon Innovative Learning Lab.