Marin School Snags National Recognition

LARKSPUR, CA — A Marin school has joined elite company.

Hall Middle School of Larkspur is abuzz after being named a National ESEA Distinguished School for exceptional student achievement, the Larkspur-Corte Madera School District announced in a news release earlier this week.

HMS, which earlier this year earned the designation as a California Distinguished School, was among two California schools selected among 223 from that list to be named a National Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) Distinguished School.

“This is an amazing accomplishment for the Hall Middle School community of learners and staff!” MHS Principal Dr. Toni Brown said in a statement.

“We have been committed to academic excellence and are honored for this recognition. Way to go Cougars!”

The National ESEA Distinguished Schools Program publicly recognizes qualifying federally funded schools for the outstanding academic achievements of their students.

The organization highlights the efforts of schools across the country making significant improvements for their students.

The program has been in place since 1996, showcasing the success of hundreds of schools in one of three categories: Exceptional student performance and academic growth for two or more consecutive years; closing the achievement gap between student groups for two or more consecutive years; and excellence in serving disadvantaged students who may be unhoused or non-native English speakers.

“We are so proud of our teachers, staff, leadership, and students to receive this high honor,” Larkspur-Corte Madera School District Superintendent Dr. Brett Geithman said in a statement.

“Clarity and purpose are drivers of success. As a school community, Hall has a laser focus on high-yield instructional methodologies, standards-based reporting, and supporting all students.”