Valley Region Elementary School No. 12 in North Hills has been officially renamed the "Carlos Santana Arts Academy." The Los Angeles Unified School Board approved the name on Tuesday.
The board said the Mexican-born guitarist is a compelling role model for students both for his longstanding musical achievements and for philanthropy with his Milagro Foundation, which works to provide education and health care for children.
The San Fernando Valley elementary school focuses on arts education.
In a letter, Santana thanked the district and said he was deeply honored.
Santana, who grew up in San Francisco, has won many awards, including 10 Grammys and three Latin Grammys.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
