http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/TheGrade/27525 Two local schools were among six in the state recognized for efforts to foster engaged citizens. Foothill High School in the Kern High School District and Endeavour Elementary School in the Fruitvale Elementary School District received the Education for Democracy Award from the California Campaign for the Civic Mission of Schools, the state education department said. “I want to congratulate Bell Gardens High School, Santiago Creek School, Foothill High School, Meadowbrook Middle School, Endeavour Elementary School, and De Anza Senior High School for developing exemplary programs about democracy that help students become active participants in their communities,” State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O’Connell said. Schools of Distinction receive decals, plaques and flags, the CMS Web site said. Selection criteria included instruction in government and democracy, incorporating current issues in the classroom and encouraging involvement in student government. Two local schools were among six in the state recognized for efforts to foster engaged citizens. Foothill High School in the Kern High School District and Endeavour Elementary School in the Fruitvale Elementary School District received the Education for Democracy Award from the California Campaign for the Civic Mission of Schools, the state education department said. “I want to congratulate Bell Gardens High School, Santiago Creek School, Foothill High School, Meadowbrook Middle School, Endeavour Elementary School, and De Anza Senior High School for developing exemplary programs about democracy that help students become active participants in their communities,” State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O’Connell said. Schools of Distinction receive decals, plaques and flags, the CMS Web site said. Selection criteria included instruction in government and democracy, incorporating current issues in the classroom and encouraging involvement in student government. en-us