For the third consecutive year, the Alhambra Unified School District (AUSD) has been voted the San Gabriel Valley’s Best School District in the Southern California News Group’s 2026 Readers Choice Awards. The district was also recognized as a Favorite Workplace, continuing an impressive streak of community support and recognition.
The annual Readers Choice Awards celebrate organizations, businesses, and institutions that have earned the trust and admiration of local residents through public voting. For AUSD, the latest honors reflect the district’s continued commitment to providing high-quality educational opportunities while fostering a supportive environment for students, families, and employees.
Superintendent Dr. Denise R. Jaramillo stated the recognition is a reflection of the collective efforts of the entire AUSD community. “Being named the San Gabriel Valley’s Best School District for a third consecutive year is an incredible honor,” Dr. Jaramillo said. “These awards belong to our students, employees, families, and community partners who make Alhambra Unified such a special place. We are grateful for the trust our community continues to place in us, and we remain committed to providing exceptional opportunities for every student who walks through our doors.”
This year’s awards also highlighted excellence across the district. In addition to AUSD being named Best School District, Ynez School earned the title of Best Elementary School and was also recognized as a Favorite Middle School.
Several other AUSD campuses were recognized among the San Gabriel Valley’s favorite schools. Alhambra High School, Mark Keppel High School, and San Gabriel High School were all named Favorite High Schools, while Granada School, Monterey Highlands School, and Ramona School were recognized as Favorite Elementary and Middle Schools.
At Ynez School, Principal Dr. Janice Phan shared that the campus community was proud to receive recognition as the region’s top elementary school. “This honor reflects the dedication of our students, staff, and families, who work together every day to create a welcoming and engaging learning environment,” said Dr. Phan. “We are proud of what makes Ynez special, from our strong academic programs to the sense of belonging our students experience on campus. Being recognized by the community in this way is both exciting and deeply appreciated.”
The recognition extended beyond district campuses as well. The Alhambra Educational Foundation (AEF), AUSD’s nonprofit partner organization, was named a Favorite Non-Profit Organization. Through enrichment opportunities and monetary support for district programs, AEF plays a vital role in enhancing educational experiences for AUSD students.
The awards also reinforce AUSD’s reputation as an employer of choice. Continued recognition as a Favorite Workplace highlights the district’s ongoing efforts to support employees through collaboration, professional growth opportunities, and a culture centered on student success.
The Readers Choice Awards are more than a celebration of accomplishments. They are also a reminder of the responsibility that comes with serving a community that places such high value on public education. “These recognitions inspire us to keep improving and innovating,” Dr. Jaramillo added. “We are proud of how far we have come, but we are always focused on what comes next for our students and families.”
With honors spanning the district, individual school sites, the workplace environment, and its non-profit partner, AUSD’s strong showing in the 2026 Readers Choice Awards underscores a community-wide commitment to educational excellence and student success.
