California state superintendent Tony Thurmond has named Oxford Academy as one of 31 2025 California Blue Ribbon Schools. The California Blue Ribbon School program recognizes schools that were previously nominated federally as National Blue Ribbon Schools, following the U.S. Department of Education’s elimination of the nationwide program in August under the Trump administration. California continues to distinguish schools through its new statewide program, recognizing public and private schools across the state for exemplary performance.
On Oct. 23, Oxford was one of four Orange County schools honored with the Blue Ribbon Distinction, along with Troy High School, Orange County Lutheran High School, and Tustin Memorial Academy. The school has previously been awarded this title in 2013 and 2019.
In addition to honoring academic performance, the Blue Ribbon Award honors elementary, middle, and high schools based on how effective they are on closing achievement and opportunity gaps, according to a California Department of Education press release.
“Not only do we have high test scores and [Advanced Placement] pass rates, but I think it’s the fact that our kids are involved in so many things,” Principal Amber Houston said. “We have award-winning sports and award-winning [Visual and Performing Arts], and other things that just goes to show that our kids have mastered how to balance their life.”
Once schools qualify based on academic performance, they go through an application process showcasing various school programs and how they provide opportunities for students. In the application, Mrs. Houston highlighted the four career pathways, the capstone program, and the community engagement that Oxford provides. Additionally, Mrs. Houston noted career-based organizations and clubs that students can participate on campus, including Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), Future Health Professionals (HOSA), and SkillsUSA.
“The Blue Ribbon is one of those things that parents, students, and families look for, right?” Mrs. Houston said. “I think that most of these schools are schools where parents have made education the most important thing and have driven that into their kids since they were in kindergarten. And so by the time we get them at the high school level or the junior high, there’s such a foundation.”
Along with the variety of opportunities and the teaching staff at Oxford, principal Houston recognizes Oxford students themselves for their talent and drive.
“I think it’s a partnership of everyone and it’s good students too. Honestly, I think the credit, or the credit is due, is that the kids come with a mission to be, to want to learn and to want to do well for themselves,” Mrs. Houston said.
