HERITAGE K-8 CHARTER SCHOOL HONORED AS
CALIFORNIA DISTINGUISHED SCHOOL
APRIL 11, 2025
ESCONDIDO, Calif. — American Heritage Charter Schools is proud to announce that its Heritage K-8 Charter School has been recognized as a 2025 California Distinguished School by the California Department of Education (CDE), a prestigious honor awarded to the state’s highest-performing schools.
Out of more than 1,300 public charter schools across California, only 36 received this honor in 2025—placing Heritage K-8 Charter School among the top 2% of public charter schools statewide. Additionally, only 12 schools in all of San Diego County were recognized this year, making this award a rare and significant distinction for the North County community.
“Heritage K-8’s recognition as a California Distinguished School is a testament to what’s possible when a school combines a rigorous classical curriculum with a deep commitment to student character, community, and safety,” said Shawn Roner, Executive Director of American Heritage Charter Schools. “It’s an example of how public charter schools can offer both academic excellence and a nurturing environment that responds to the needs of the whole child.”
Heritage K-8’s recognition as a California Distinguished School is a testament to what’s possible when a school combines a rigorous classical curriculum with a deep commitment to student character, community, and safety.
SHAWN RONER
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF AMERICAN HERITAGE CHARTER SCHOOLS
The California Distinguished Schools Program honors schools for exceptional student performance and success in closing achievement gaps. According to the California Department of Education, Closing the Achievement Gap refers to schools making significant progress with historically underserved student groups while maintaining strong outcomes for all students. Exceptional Student Performance recognizes schools that rank among the highest statewide in academic achievement, student engagement, and school climate.
“This recognition reflects our ongoing and long-standing commitment to educating every child and empowering parents, breaking down educational barriers and meeting the diverse needs of our students and families,” Mr. Roner said.
Heritage K-8 Charter School is comprised of Heritage Elementary School (K-6), Heritage Junior High School (7-8), and Heritage Flex Academy (TK-8) and currently serves 1,318 students.
Justin Panlasigui
Director of Marketing & Strategic Development
American Heritage Charter Schools
760-737-3154 ext. 135
jpanlasigui@amhcs.org