Introduction
The California School Boards Association Golden Bell Awards, now in its 45th year, promotes excellence in education and school board governance by recognizing outstanding programs and governance practices of school boards in school districts and county offices of education throughout California. The Golden Bell Awards reflect the depth and breadth of education programs and governance decisions supporting these programs that address students’ changing needs. This awards program highlights best practices in education in all areas of operations, instruction and support services by:
- Seeking out and recognizing key governance practices that support, sustain and inspire the creation and continuance of exemplary education programs.
- Seeking out and recognizing sustainable, innovative or exemplary programs, which have been developed and successfully implemented by California teachers and administrators.
- Recognizing and supporting educators who invest extra energy and time to make a demonstrated difference for students.
- Promoting models with positive student outcomes.
- Focusing on the commitment to ensure that the needs of all students are met.
Identifying exemplary programs serves as a way to share information about effective educational strategies. The Golden Bell Awards program also serves to boost confidence in public education by focusing attention on success in California’s schools. Finally, it enables the CSBA, on behalf of school governing boards throughout the state, to express appreciation to dedicated educators who strive to provide a high-quality education that challenges all students to succeed.
This year, 256 entries in 22 categories were received. Experts from school districts and county offices of education comprised the 61-member judging panel, and a total of 61 Delegates and board members across the state conducted in person or virtual validations.
