DSUSD excellence was celebrated at the August 18 school board meeting with outstanding work through Jostens Renaissance, a program that builds positive school culture by recognizing achievement, strengthening connections, and ensuring students and staff feel seen, heard, and valued.

Gold Tier Schools of Distinction

Two schools completed two Commitment to Graduate initiatives, recognized students and staff, gathered feedback, enhanced their campus environment, and tracked progress toward key goals. Congratulations to Indio High School and Colonel Mitchell Paige Middle School recognized as a 2026 Jostens Renaissance Gold Tier School of Distinction!

Platinum Tier Schools of Distinction

Platinum is the highest honor awarded to campuses, recognizing schools that go above and beyond to build a culture of recognition, achievement, and connection.

Congratulations to La Quinta Middle School which is officially a four-peat Jostens Renaissance Platinum Tier School of Distinction!

We're also incredibly proud to recognize Indio Middle School as a 2026 Jostens Renaissance Platinum Tier School of Distinction!

National Renaissance Staffulty of the Month

Lucia Martinez was named Jostens National Renaissance Staffulty of the Month for May 2026!

Her nominator describes her as an exceptional educator and leader whose positivity, integrity, and dedication inspire everyone around her. Read More!

National Renaissance Students of the Month

Two La Quinta Middle School students were recognized as Jostens National Renaissance Student of the Month for April 2026! Renaissance President Ava Lopez and her sister Anni Lopez, ASB and Student Council President, were nominated by Dr. Farah Ortega-Choate, calling them the school's "wonder twins" for bringing student leadership programs together and showing the power of collaboration.

2026 Renaissance Region of the Year

Lastly, congratulations to Dr. Farah Ortega-Choate, who serves as the "champion" of the Jostens Renaissance Sierra Nevada Region, representing schools across California, Hawaii, and Nevada. At the recent 2026 Jostens Renaissance Global Conference, the Sierra Nevada Region was named Region of the Year, an honor that reflects the incredible commitment and collaboration of educators and schools throughout the region.