In a daylong celebration on June 4, 2010, State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O'Connell honored the 2010 California Distinguished School Award winners.  The 484 exemplary schools included a record 31 San Bernardino County elementary schools, and six schools from Fontana Unified School District:  Dorothy Grant, Hemlock, Mango, Oleander, Virginia Primrose, and Shadow Hills Elementary Schools.

The schools were selected after submitting an application, undergoing a rigorous selection process by the California Department of Education, concluding with a site visit to validate that they are indeed exemplary schools. "It is an honor to recognize the schools, and the students, parents, teachers, and administrators who helped earn this most prestigious distinction," said State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O'Connell. "The 2010 California Distinguished Schools have been selected because of their academic excellence and for narrowing achievement gaps. These schools have persevered despite state budget cutbacks that have cut deeply into the budgets of local school districts."

Schools recognized by the state program must demonstrate high academic expectations for all students, achievement levels at and above state standards, strong leadership, competent and caring teachers focused on standards, and outstanding curriculum.