SAN DIEGO - The San Diego International Studies School was named a national blue ribbon school Monday by U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan.

The program honors those that perform at a high level, showed great performance improvement or closed the achievement gap affecting disadvantaged and minority students.

"The dedication of our students, teachers, parents and staff to education is what has made this possible," said Carmen Garcia, the school's principal. "It shows that a challenging curriculum and a top-notch faculty and staff encourages students to learn and  makes them want to learn more."

The San Diego International Studies School, part of San Diego High School, is one of 23 national blue ribbon schools selected in California, and is the only one in San Diego County.

"I congratulate these dedicated schools for receiving such a prestigious national honor," said state Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson, who nominated the schools earlier this year.

"This recognition was made possible by motivated teachers, administrators and staff supported by involved parents who worked together to provide their students a firm foundation for a lifetime of learning."

More than 300 schools around the nation will be honored Nov. 12-13 in Washington, D.C., where each winning campus will receive a plaque and flag, which may be flown at the campus as a mark of excellence.

In its 30-year history, the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program has bestowed the award on nearly 7,000 schools.