Nine Los Angeles County schools are among the 19 campuses statewide recognized in the 2026 California Exemplary Arts Education Awards, announced by State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond. The award honors schools that demonstrate a strong commitment to arts education through high-quality curriculum, dedicated resources and equitable access for all students, including English learners, students with disabilities and other special populations.

The recognition comes as California observes Arts Education Month in March. To qualify, schools must offer at least three arts disciplines, such as music, theater, dance, media arts or visual arts during the regular school day, while also supporting professional development for educators and ensuring inclusive access to programs.

Los Angeles County is well represented among this year’s honorees, with nine schools recognized:

• Claremont High School — Claremont Unified School District
• Crescenta Valley High School — Glendale Unified School District
• Mark Keppel Elementary School — Glendale Unified School District
• Prairie Vista Middle School — Hawthorne School District
• ICEF View Park Preparatory High School — Los Angeles Unified School District 
• Maywood Center for Enriched Studies — Los Angeles Unified School District 
• Mira Costa High School — Manhattan Beach Unified School District
• Gabrielino High School — San Gabriel Unified School District
• Jefferson Middle School — San Gabriel Unified School District 

The awarded schools reflect a diverse cross-section of Los Angeles County communities, from large urban campuses to smaller suburban schools, each demonstrating how sustained investment in arts education can expand opportunities and support student success.

The Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE) has played a supporting role in advancing arts education across the County. Through our Arts and STEAM initiatives, LACOE has provided technical assistance or professional development to nearly all of the recognized districts and local educational agencies.

 In addition, San Gabriel USD, Glendale USD and Claremont USD participate in regional arts coordinator convenings co-led by the L.A. County Department of Arts and Culture and LACOE, helping to strengthen collaboration and expand access to arts programs. Crescenta Valley High School was also previously recognized as the 2024 Los Angeles County Poetry Out Loud champion, further highlighting the strength of arts education in the region.

We are proud to continue our push for arts education for all and are excited to celebrate all 2026 award recipients at the California School Recognition Program Ceremony in Anaheim this April.