In a year of academic gains and campus transformation, Donaldson Way Elementary in American Canyon has earned one of California’s top honors for public schools.
The Napa County campus is among just 336 elementary schools across the state to be named a 2025 California Distinguished School — an award that celebrates standout achievement and progress in closing opportunity gaps.
The recognition, announced by the California Department of Education, is based on performance data from the state’s School Dashboard. Donaldson Way was singled out for its improvements in English and math scores across student groups, particularly among English learners and students from low-income households.
“This recognition is a tremendous honor,” Principal James Dennis said in a statement, “and a testament to the unwavering dedication of our students, the tireless efforts of our exceptional staff, and the strong partnership we have with our families and the American Canyon community at large.”
Donaldson Way Elementary in American Canyon, one of 15 elementary schools in the Napa Valley Unified School District, has been honored with the award for its outstanding student performance and its success in closing the achievement gap for student groups that have historically experienced disparities, a district press release stated.
With more than 500 students enrolled — 20% of them English learners and more than 65% from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds — the school has focused on building both academic success and a welcoming, supportive environment. That dual emphasis, state officials said, is what makes Distinguished Schools stand out.
But Donaldson Way has more than a state award to celebrate this year.
In March, the school broke ground on a brand-new multi-purpose facility that will serve as a gathering space for schoolwide events, performances and community meetings. Once completed in spring 2026, the upgrade will also allow the current multi-use room to be converted into a modern, expanded school library.
“These improvements will offer a safe, modern, and inspiring educational environment for every student,” Napa Valley Unified School District Superintendent Rosanna Mucetti said. “(They) are a testament to the power and dedication of the entire American Canyon community.”
The project is funded by Measure A2, a $25 million bond measure passed by American Canyon voters in 2022 to improve local school facilities.
You can reach Tarini Mehta at 707-521-5337 or [email protected]. On X (Twitter) @MehtaTarini.