El Cerrito School Honored by U.S. Department of Education

El Cerrito’s Tehiyah Day School has new bragging rights. The celebrated private Jewish day school, which teaches bridge kindergarten through eighth grade, was recently recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as a National Blue Ribbon School.

“Schools honored with the National Blue Ribbon Schools Award are committed to accelerating student achievement and preparing students for success in college and careers,"said U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan in a news release. "Their work reflects the conviction that every child has promise and that education is the surest pathway to a strong, secure future."

The National Blue Ribbon Award is given to both private and public schools in two categories. Tehiyah Day School was recognized in the category "Exemplary High Performing School," which is based on standardized tests and detailed information about the school’s programs,” according to Tehiyah school spokeswoman Donna Sidel.

Tehiyah is one of two California schools to receive the award, which has been granted by the U.S. Department of Education for 30 years.