Published: May 12, 2008 04:28 pm         

State recognizes Homestead and South for academic achievement

Being placed in the top 10 percent signifies success in almost any field. For two county schools, that is more than the case.

Homestead Elementary and South Elementary are among 27 Title I schools scoring in the top 10 percent in the state for reading/language arts and math for the 2006-'07 school year.

"It's a special recognition because they're not just among the top Title I schools, but among the top 10 percent of all schools in the state," said Director of Schools Aarona VanWinkle. "I'm very proud. It's a commendable thing."

Title I is a designation given to schools where a large number or percentage of students come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

This award program is based on performance on the annual Tennessee Comprehensive Assessment Program (TCAP).

VanWinkle went on to say the recognition is not just a reflection on the teachers and students, but on the faculty and staff.

"It's the whole climate of the school," the DOS stated. "All of our schools do well because they know where their students are and where the state expects them to be. They do the things they need to implement student growth."

Robin Perry, Homestead Elementary principal, said she was grateful to be "part of such a distinguished group of educators."

"I am very excited about being part of the governor's top 10 percent," said Perry. "The hard work and dedication of all the Homestead family has made this award possible."

Darrell Threet, South Elementary principal said, "We're extremely pleased. It's the teachers and the students' success. They do the hard work."

Threet went on to give credit to the parents who help students with their studies.

With the other 25 schools, Homestead and South are the 2008 recipients of Title I Academic Achievement Awards for their exceptional academic performance

and for meeting the adequate yearly progress goals of No Child Left Behind for two consecutive years.

“It is wonderful to honor the hard work evident in this accomplishment,” acting Education Commissioner Tim Webb said. “Recognizing our schools’ successes is as vital to accountability as implementing reform when needed. Local educators and students should take pride in the example they have set for the rest of the state.”

VanWinkle told the Chronicle that South and Homestead would be recognized at the May 6 school board meeting.

“This tremendous achievement shows that schools with high percentages

of students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds can still meet

high standards,” said Julie McCargar, executive director of federal

programs. “Congratulations to the district staff, school staff and

students at these schools.”