South San Francisco Unified School District (SSFUSD) was the only school district with two schools in the winner’s circle at the San Mateo County School Boards Association's (SMCSBA) 44th annual Kent Awards on May 10, 2024.
Sunshine Gardens Elementary won for its annual diversity and multicultural talent show, where students without formal training in dance, music, or performing arts have the opportunity showcase their talents through cultural performances.
Meanwhile, El Camino High received recognition for its culinary arts program, which evolved from a traditional home economics class to a career technical education (CTE) program that allows students to earn academic credit at the University of California.
The SMCSBA recognition program began during the 1980-81 school year and is named after J. Russell Kent, a former superintendent of the San Mateo County Office of Education.
School districts and individual schools may submit applications for recognition, which are screened by a committee using specific rubrics such as whether a program is replicable or innovative.