State Gives Award to Adult School

At a school board meeting last week, Simi Valley Adult School was honored for receiving the Program of Excellence designation from the Department of Education.

The state notified the school that it had received the award in September, but no public announcement was made until the school board meeting.

The award, given to 19 schools this year, recognizes the quality of the staff and the school’s curriculum. Simi Valley Adult School offers a wide range of course work--academic, professional, technical and classes for earning a high school diploma.

The program’s continued partnership with industry--as exemplified by the many professionals on the school’s advisory board--sets it apart, said Jeanette O’Brien, a coordinator for the school.

In addition, she said, the adult school continually upgrades its computer software and equipment to help better prepare students for the workplace.

“Whenever you’re cutting edge, it’s always good for placement,” O’Brien said. “It’s good for the community. It’s what’s needed out there in the real world, and I think that contributed to the award.”