Garden Grove Unified Celebrates Continued Growth in Golden State Seal Merit Diploma Earners

Thursday, February 26, 2026

Garden Grove Unified School District is proud to announce continued growth in the number of students earning the prestigious Golden State Seal Merit Diploma, a recognition awarded to California high school graduates who demonstrate a high level of mastery in at least six subject areas through rigorous coursework and strong academic performance.

The Class of 2025 included 1,164 students who earned the distinction, and that number has grown to 1,286 students in the Class of 2026 who are set to receive the honor upon graduation. The growth in Golden State Seal recipients reflects the district’s continued focus on GGUSD’s Goal 1: Academic Skills and Goal 1A: Mastery of Academic Content, which emphasize ensuring all students develop deep content knowledge and the skills necessary to excel in college, career, and life.

“The Golden State Seal Merit Diploma is more than a recognition — it represents true academic mastery across multiple subject areas,” said Board of Education President Bob Harden. “It signals that our students are graduating with the knowledge, discipline, and confidence needed to achieve lifelong success.”

GGUSD remains committed to providing students with meaningful academic opportunities that promote mastery, achievement, and lifelong success, while continuing to raise the bar for student outcomes year after year.