JACKSON, Tenn (August 4, 2014) – The Tennessee Department of Education has released the names of the newest recipients of Reward School recognition for 2014-2015 school year.
The Jackson-Madison County has two schools in the district being recognized as Reward Schools. They are South Side High School for the second year in a row and, Madison Academic Magnet High School, for the fourth year in a row.
Reward Schools are schools that rank in the top 5 percent of schools in the state for academic achievement and the top 5 percent for annual growth.
This year’s list recognized 76 schools statewide for overall academic achievement and 85 schools, which included South Side High School, for annual value-added growth. This list also names 9 schools (Madison Academic Magnet High School) that earned both designations.
“We are proud of the leadership at South Side and Madison, and the great teachers, staff, students and parents of these great schools for this significant accomplishment,” commented Dr. Verna Ruffin, Superintendent of the Jackson-Madison County School System.
Additionally, the district received a designation of Priority Improving for Lincoln Elementary which was designated as a Priority School in 2013-2014.
Priority Schools demonstrating growth in academic achievement such that they are no longer in the lowest-performing 10 percent of schools (but remain in the lowest-performing 15 percent of schools) are labeled Priority Improving.
Priority Improving Schools are still considered Priority Schools but may exit in a subsequent year if they continue to demonstrate growth. Dr. Ruffin stated that she is proud of the progress made by the students and staff at Lincoln Elementary and looks forward to the opportunities in achievement for the current school year.
(AP) — Tennessee schools across the state are being recognized for their achievement and growth.
The Reward Schools span 59 districts and include 93 schools that serve mostly economically disadvantaged populations.
This year’s list recognized 76 schools for overall academic achievement and 85 schools for annual value-added growth.
The list names nine schools that earned both designations, rising to the top 5 percent for annual value-added growth while also ranking in the state’s top 5 percent for overall achievement.
W.A. Wright Elementary School in Wilson County was one of the nine schools, and students were treated with visits from Gov. Bill Haslam and Education Commissioner Candice McQueen on Monday.
Said Haslam: “Tennessee teachers and students are working harder than ever, and it’s paying off.”
