A program of the National Forum,
run by the California League of Middle Schools
California's 48th 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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Community Montessori
★ 2026 NEWLY DESIGNATED
Earl Otte, Principal
760-445-4907
1441 Montiel Rd Suite 143, Escondido, CA 92026, USA
Independent Charter School
SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT
Community Montessori coordinates data-informed instruction and intervention, accessible counseling and wellness services, 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.
✓ PLCs use shared assessments and student data to plan targeted instruction and intervention.
✓ Inclusive special education services combine grade-level access with targeted academic and behavioral support.
✓ Service learning connects academic skills with civic responsibility and meaningful community impact.
★ An uninterrupted daily work period is a foundational feature of the Montessori middle-school program.
Temecula Middle School
★ 2025 NEWLY DESIGNATED
Marvin Morton, Principal
951-302-5151
42075 Meadows Pkwy, Temecula, CA 92592
Temecula Valley Unified School District
SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT
Temecula Middle School combines career and technical education pathways, 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.
✓ Targeted mathematics support uses tutoring, small groups, and progress monitoring to build proficiency.
✓ The Bobcat Way. reinforces clear expectations, reflection, accountability, and positive relationships.
✓ Arts and music programs build creativity, teamwork, confidence, and opportunities for performance.
★ The school is Temecula’s first middle school to offer Unified Sports for students in the moderate and severe special education program.
College Preparatory Middle School
★ 2023 NEWLY DESIGNATED
Christina Callaway, Principal
(619) 303-2782
10269 Madrid Way, Spring Valley, CA 91977
College Preparatory Middle School
SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT
College Preparatory Middle School combines data-informed instruction, social-emotional learning, and family engagement 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.
✓ Integrated English learner supports strengthen language development and access to grade-level instruction.
✓ Counseling and wellness services provide coordinated social-emotional and behavioral support.
✓ Family and community partnerships expand student support, enrichment, and engagement.
★ Daily announcements, student work displays, College Bound celebrations, and family award ceremonies reinforce positive character and school culture.