As a school district that educates many generations of residents, Turlock Unified School District is a close knit community. So, when one of its school sites is selected as one of California’s 214 Schools to Watch, this positive attention affects more than the currently enrolled students.

Turlock Junior High School will host a ceremony for its recognition as part of the California School to Watch Taking Center Stage program as a model for real-world success. TJHS is one of 59 model schools selected in the state since 2003, and the only junior high or middle school in Stanislaus County to earn this recognition.

 “This ceremony is an affirmation of the fine work so many have done in the school district and larger community,” said TJHS Principal Dave Kline. “We are thrilled to have this recognition. Our staff and students have worked very hard in an exciting and challenging junior high school program to demonstrate strong student achievement.”

The California Schools to Watch program is made possible by the California Middle Grades Alliance, which features several statewide educational programs, including the California Department of Education. President of the National Forum to Accelerate Middle Grades reform Dr. Irvin Howard will present the school with a banner and address the students on their selection at the ceremony.

“Turlock Junior High School is a model of what an outstanding middle school can be. School leaders from across the state will now turn to Turlock Junior High School for guidance on improving their programs to better serve their students,” said Howard.

The California Schools to Watch Taking Center Stage ceremony will take place at 1 p.m. March 3 at the TJHS cafeteria.