The Santa Clarita Valley Association of California School Administrators has named College of the Canyons its Golden Apple Award honoree for the 2015-16 academic year.

Each year, the Golden Apple Award is presented to a single person, company, organization or institution that works to collectively support the SCV’s local elementary and high school districts.

College of the Canyons was roundly recognized for a wide range of educational support, outreach and volunteer programs directed at serving local students and community members.

“The Santa Clarita Valley ACSA has selected an outstanding honoree that goes above and beyond to assist our schools and help them to be the wonderful institutions that they are,” said Eran Zeevi, president of the SCV ACSA during the award presentation.

“I would like to thank, on behalf of the Santa Clarita Valley, a special organization who has impacted all (SCV) schools and districts in so many positive ways.”

College of the Canyons Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook said the award recognizes a college-wide commitment to partnerships.

“We’re honored by this award, which was made possible by the creativity and collaborative spirit of so many different people at College of the Canyons,” Dr. Van Hook said. “Our faculty, staff and administrators recognize that if we are willing to work together, we can accomplish more for Santa Clarita students than by working as individuals.”

Among the college initiatives highlighted by the ACSA board of directors were:

The continued opportunity for high school students to concurrently enroll in tuition-free college courses at COC

The wide variety of college preparedness services and workshops available to high school students and their families, including the assignment of a ‘College and Career Coach’ at each SCV high school campus

The ongoing operation of the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center (PAC) K-12 Arts Education Outreach program, which collaborates with local educators to develop enhanced arts education programs in K-12 classrooms

The presence of TEACH program student volunteers at local elementary and high school classrooms throughout the SCV

The continued outreach efforts related to the college’s lineup of free ESL courses

The donation of funds and materials to further the development of STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) curriculum in elementary school classrooms

“Today’s elementary, junior high, and high school students are tomorrow’s College of the Canyons students,” Dr. Van Hook said. “We’re committed to helping them succeed now, understand that college is possible, and inspire them to pursue their dreams. When they are ready for college, we will be ready for them!”

Nominations for the Golden Apple Award are handled through the ACSA Board of directors, with College of the Canyons chosen as a unanimous selection.

ACSA’s top priority is advocating for public school students in kindergarten through grade 12, as well as adult learners. The organization’s mission is to be the driving force of education in California and beyond.

The Santa Clarita Valley lies in ACSA Region XV.