BY NATASHA BRENNAN

“I am pleased to announce that the California Department of Education has informed our district office that West Covina High School is eligible for the 2013 California Distinguished School Award,” announced Principal Alex Ruvalcaba over the intercom at the beginning of first period on Tuesday, November 6.

Eligibility for the prestigous award depends on API scores, the growth of proficiency and above on STAR tests, and presentation of two signature practices, all of which are evaluated by a group of educators.  On Tuesday, November 13, teachers will meet with Ruvalcaba to discuss the application process and what is WCHS’s “signature practice.”  The signature practice are the outstanding things Bulldogs do as a school to improve achievement.  Later, students will be polled as to their idea of what Bulldogs’ signature practices are.

The application process will end by December 10, and the district will know who won by March 2013.

“I feel winning the award will bring even more pride to what us Bulldogs already have,” said Ruvalcaba. “We have amazing students supported by dedicated and hardworking teachers and staff.”

WCHS has not received the award since 2005, but Ruvlacaba is hopeful Bulldogs will receive it this time.

“It’s a validation of our hard work, that of the students and teachers, I’m very hopeful and very proud.  It’s an awesome distinction,” stated Ruvalcaba.

Out of the 137 high schools eligible in the state, only five come from the San Gabriel Valley.