Enrique S. Camarena Elementary Earns Statewide Honor as a Blue Ribbon School

Enrique S. Camarena Elementary has been recognized as a 2025 California Blue Ribbon School by the California Department of Education, one of only 31 schools in the state and 11 elementary schools selected. These schools were originally nominated for the National Blue Ribbon Schools (NBRS) recognition, but following recent updates to the federal program, the state continued to honor their achievement through the California Blue Ribbon Schools designation.

This prestigious recognition honors public and private schools that close achievement and opportunity gaps, as well as those where students demonstrate exceptionally high levels of academic success. Blue Ribbon schools are among the state’s highest performing, based on all students’ scores, subgroup performance, and graduation rates. Enrique S. Camarena Elementary earned this distinction for its success in narrowing the achievement gap, reflecting the school’s steadfast commitment to ensuring every student thrives.

Over the past three years, Enrique S. Camarena Elementary has cultivated a deeply collaborative school culture centered on growth, engagement, and continuous improvement. Teachers and staff work together to understand the unique needs of each child, refine instructional practices, and use data thoughtfully to guide learning for all students.

“This award belongs to our entire school community,” shares Principal Jason Soileau. “Every teacher, student, and family has played a part in creating a place where children feel supported, challenged, and inspired to do their best. It’s the heart our community puts into learning every day that makes Camarena truly special.”

In the 40-year history of the Blue Ribbon Schools program, Enrique S. Camarena Elementary is only the third school in the Chula Vista Elementary School District (CVESD) to receive this honor. The school will be formally celebrated at the California School Recognition Program celebration in spring 2026.

CVESD proudly congratulates Enrique S. Camarena Elementary on this outstanding accomplishment and commends its staff, students, and families for their continued dedication to excellence.