Why Was Flagler Schools Named Cambridge’s U.S. District of the Year for College-Level Programs?

Flagler Schools has been named the 2026 U.S. District of the Year (Small District Division) by Cambridge for expanding access to college-level coursework and delivering strong student outcomes through the Cambridge AICE program at Matanzas High School.

Why Was Flagler Schools Named Cambridge’s U.S. District of the Year for College-Level Programs?

What Did Flagler Schools Win?

Flagler Schools has been named the 2026 U.S. District of the Year (Small District Division) by Cambridge for expanding access to college-level coursework and achieving strong student performance through the Cambridge AICE program at Matanzas High School.

Why Did Flagler Schools Win?

Flagler Schools earned this national recognition from Cambridge for expanding access to college-level coursework while maintaining strong student performance in the Cambridge AICE program at Matanzas High School. The award highlights both the district’s growth in advanced academic participation and its ability to deliver consistent, high-quality results for students.

Key Details of the Recognition

• Award: U.S. District of the Year (Small District Division) by Cambridge
• Focus: Expansion and success in college-level Cambridge AICE coursework
• Primary Location: Matanzas High School
• Impact: Prepares students for college credit, scholarships, and advanced academic success

Flagler Schools Earns National Recognition

Flagler Schools has received national recognition for its success in preparing students for college-level academics through advanced coursework programs.

The award, presented by the International Education Group at Cambridge, highlights both student achievement and the district’s commitment to expanding academic opportunities.

This recognition is tied directly to the continued growth of the Cambridge Advanced International Certificate of Education (AICE) program at Matanzas High School.

What Is the Cambridge AICE Program?

The Cambridge Advanced International Certificate of Education (AICE) program is a globally recognized academic pathway designed for students seeking college-level coursework while still in high school.

At Matanzas High School, the program has been offered since the 2018–2019 school year and provides:

• A structured, three-year academic curriculum
• College-level courses and end-of-course exams
• Opportunities to earn college credit
• Preparation for honors-level university programs

The program focuses on developing critical thinking, research, and analytical skills that support long-term academic success.

Why This Matters for Flagler County

This national recognition from Cambridge highlights Flagler Schools’ success in delivering college-level coursework through the AICE program at Matanzas High School.

Key takeaways for families and students include:

• Access to college-level coursework without leaving high school
• Increased opportunities for scholarships and college credit
• Strong preparation for college and career pathways
• A proven academic program available locally at Matanzas High School

Programs like Cambridge AICE demonstrate how smaller school districts can deliver high-level academic opportunities typically associated with larger systems. 

How Students Benefit from AICE Programs

Students participating in Cambridge programs gain advantages that extend beyond the classroom:

• Earn college credits before graduation
• Strengthen college applications
• Build confidence in advanced academic settings
• Explore subjects in depth before choosing a career path

These programs are recognized by hundreds of colleges and universities, including many top institutions.

About Cambridge Programs

Cambridge programs are offered in schools across 26 states and territories and serve nearly two million students globally each year.

With more than 160 years of experience in international education, Cambridge provides structured academic pathways designed to prepare students for both college and career success.

What Happens Next

Flagler Schools will be formally recognized during an upcoming Matanzas High School faculty and staff meeting, where representatives from Cambridge will present the award.

People Also Ask

Why did Flagler Schools win the Cambridge award? Flagler Schools earned the recognition for expanding access to college-level coursework and achieving strong student outcomes through the Cambridge AICE program at Matanzas High School.

What does “District of the Year” mean for Flagler Schools? It means Flagler Schools is recognized nationally by Cambridge for strong student performance and growth in college-level coursework programs.

Can students earn college credit in high school in Flagler County? Yes, students in the Cambridge AICE program can earn college credit while still in high school.

Which school in Flagler County offers the Cambridge program?
Matanzas High School (MHS) currently offers the Cambridge AICE program.

“Flagler Schools students recently qualified for international competition”