Minarets High School's status as an Apple Distinguished School was renewed this year, making it a distinguished school two years in a row. Minarets is one of only 43 schools nationwide that have been renewed as distinguished schools for their exemplary learning environments and centers of innovation, leadership and educational excellence, according to Apple.

"It is another tremendous honor and recognition for Minarets," said Michael Niehoff, Minarets principal. "Our staff and students are working tremendously hard to perfect a true project-based and 21st century professional environment."

Chawanakee Unified School District Superintendent Bob Nelson says he is "thrilled" that Minarets was among the few schools selected.

"This continuing recognition recognizes the commitment that our staff at Minarets has made to provide students with instruction that is relevant for the future job market," Nelson said. "We plan to stay on the forefront of what is happening in educational technology with the hope of receiving this ongoing recognition."

In a letter sent to Nelson, announcing the accomplishment, Stephanie Carullo, vice president of education for Apple, said that Minarets was selected for exhibiting the five best practices of an Apple Distinguished School -- visionary leadership, innovative learning and teaching, ongoing professional learning, compelling evidence of success and a flexible learning environment.

Nelson said the district is also become increasingly proud of the educational product they are able to offer students through their charter school.

Jon Corippo, director of Minarets Charter and director of MHS film students who was named Apple Distinguished Educator in 2011, says being an Apple Distinguished School has brought them connection.

"We were already connected and visited by a lot of schools, but since ADS, we have connected with a far larger group," Corippo said. "We have many unique events where our kids get to present for Apple."

Apple's education mission is to provide a learning environment that supports the way students live and how they want to learn, Carullo writes.

"We applaud schools such as Minarets High School who are able to advance this mission, ensuring that all students are prepared for future success in work life,"