LOCAL SCHOOLS RECEIVE STATE HONORS; 2 BURBANK MIDDLE SCHOOLS, 1 GLENDALE HIGH SCHOOL NAMED.

Byline: Lee Condon Daily News Staff Writer

David Starr Jordan and John Muir middle schools in Burbank, and Crescenta Valley High School in Glendale have been named winners in the 1999 California Distinguished Schools Program, school officials said Thursday.

The schools were among 94 middle schools and 64 high schools from throughout the state honored by the California Department of Education with the annual award.

``Each of the 1999 distinguished schools is an outstanding example of successful teaching and learning, high standards for all students, strong family and community involvement, partnerships with the business community, safe and clean environments and modern technology,'' said Delaine Eastin, state superintendent of public instruction.

Schools applied for the award. After reviewing the applications, state officials visited the top schools to confirm the information in the applications.

This is the third win for Muir Middle School, which won in 1988 and 1994.

``It's a validation of a lot of hard work for staff, parents and the community,'' said Joanne Starkey, the principal at Muir. ``We try to really reach out to the kids and include them in programs.''

Starkey said her staff spends a great deal of time on training and professional development and frequently consults with experts about improving the school. Students are offered a wide range of electives, and the school offers many after-school activities for students.

Jordan Middle School Principal Mary Margaret Kljunak said the school's staff and students were delighted to be named a distinguished school for the second time since 1994.

``Obviously, it's the curriculum we're offering to our students and the extra things we do for our students,'' Kljunak said. ``I think we have an extremely caring staff who do whatever it takes for students. They go that extra mile to make it happen.''

Jordan staff continually try to come up with innovative ways to improve education, she said.

Several years ago, Jordan dropped its homeroom period and instead added a seventh period as an extra class for students. Many students use the class for an elective or to participate in student body government. It also provides a time for extra help for students.

``For students who are struggling, we're able to put them in a seventh period tutorial or student hall,'' Kljunak said.

The school also has a program called After the Bell, in which teachers provide extra help in different subjects after school from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.

In addition, the school has close connections with the local entertainment studios, including a reading program tied to Warner Bros. and a mentor program in which Disney employees are paired with students ``who can benefit from having another adult in their life,'' Kljunak said.

It was sweet victory for Crescenta Valley High School, which filed its first application for the honor this year.

``This is a tremendous tribute to anyone who works or who has ever worked at the school,'' said Gary Talbert, adding that he believes it has long been a distinguished school.

The schools will be recognized on May 21 at an awards ceremony at the Santa Clara Convention Center.