“Your success is our success,” said State School Superintendent Richard Woods as he honored 13 Douglas County schools for outstanding achievement in math and literacy on Feb. 25 at Chapel Hill Middle School. The recognition highlights significant growth and proficiency across elementary, middle and high school levels based on statewide milestones and end-of-course tests.
Prior to the awards presentation, Woods encouraged school leaders to share valuable feedback and insights on how to enhance education and continue driving student success. Following the discussion, he proudly presented the first awards banner to Lithia Springs Elementary School for excellence in cursive writing (John Hancock Award).
“To earn this recognition, schools must demonstrate that at least 90% of eligible students meet the cursive writing requirement,” emphasized Woods.
Along with the cursive writing recognition, Math Leader Banners were presented to Annette Winn Elementary, Bill Arp Elementary, Lithia Springs Elementary, Mason Creek Elementary, Chapel Hill Middle, Turner Middle, Chestnut Log Middle, Fairplay Middle, Mason Creek Middle and Alexander High School. Math Leader qualifications are based on students achieving proficient or distinguished levels on Georgia Milestones mathematics assessments.
“The skill of numeracy is an essential one, both as students progress through their K-12 education and in their futures,” noted Woods. "These schools and their educators, students, families, and communities have worked hard to implement the new K-12 Mathematics Standards and prepare all students for life. I commend them for their outstanding work."
Literacy Leader Banners were presented to Eastside Elementary, Winston Elementary, Annette Winn Elementary and Factory Shoals Middle School for excellence in reading performance. The criteria for the Literacy Leader awards recognize the crucial importance of grade-level reading in third and sixth grades and require higher growth from schools with lower achievement levels.
Assistant Superintendent of Teaching and Learning Dr. K’Asha Davis expressed sincere gratitude to State Superintendent Woods for acknowledging each school’s ongoing dedication to academic excellence.
“By focusing on student outcomes, our leaders and teachers have achieved incredible growth,” said Davis. “We are proud to accept these awards from the State Superintendent for our school’s success.”
As he concluded his visit, State Superintendent Woods congratulated the group of dedicated educators for all of their hard work, encouraging them to bring more of their fellow colleagues to be recognized next year.
“I want to encourage you, and encourage your other schools. There are schools that we need to come back next year, and we need to celebrate with them and say, ‘You got the banner.’
“You are the example for them, so it can be done.”