Just this past October, the San Diego Union-Tribune highlighted Fallbrook Union Elementary School District (FUESD) as the only district in San Diego County to achieve significant gains in both English Language Arts and Math, according to state test results. Today, we are proud to share that Live Oak Elementary is once again being recognized for its exceptional efforts in closing the achievement gap. The school has been honored as a 2025 California Distinguished School by State Superintendent Tony Thurmond. This is a reflection of the intentional and inspirational work being done by the FUESD team to ensure the academic success of every student. Each school in the district has consistently met and surpassed academic goals, achieving significant honors in multiple educational areas. Schools across the district have demonstrated notable growth in reading and math achievement and have successfully reduced chronic absenteeism, underscoring the district’s ongoing commitment to educational excellence. More details on these accomplishments can be found here: Exciting News: FUESD Recognized by the State of California for Significant Growth in Reading and Math
Out of just 12 schools recognized across all of San Diego County, having two from FUESD underscores the district’s dedication to academic excellence and student success.
Live Oak Elementary was selected based on its exceptional performance as measured by the rigorous standards of the California School Dashboard. Schools recognized must show high levels of achievement in English Language Arts (ELA) and mathematics, strong student engagement, positive school climates, and significant growth for student groups experiencing achievement gaps.
“We are immensely proud of our educators, staff, students, and families at Live Oak Elementary,” said FUESD Superintendent Monika Hazel. “Their commitment and hard work have led to this prestigious recognition, demonstrating what is possible when a community comes together to support the academic and personal growth of every child.”
Since its inception in 1985, the California Distinguished Schools program has celebrated outstanding schools that exemplify innovative teaching and effective practices to enhance student learning and achievement.
Live Oak Elementary will officially be recognized at the California Distinguished Schools Awards Ceremony at the Disneyland Hotel in Anaheim on May 30, 2025, alongside other distinguished schools from across the state.
Congratulations to Live Oak Elementary for its exceptional achievement, representing the best of FUESD and inspiring continued excellence in education.