Indian River elementaries earn state honors

Three Indian River School District schools recently earned state honors for student academic success.

The Delaware Department of Education named East Millsboro Elementary School a Reward School for 2016 – a reward given to Title I schools whose students are either the highest performing or show the highest amount of growth in performance.

Also receiving state honors are John M. Clayton and Phillip C. Showell elementary schools, which were named Recognition Schools. Recognition Schools are chosen for exceptional performance and/or closing the achievement gap.

“These schools are being honored because of their students’ exceptional performance and/or the significant growth they have made, particularly in closing achievement gaps. Congratulations to the students, teachers and administrators whose dedicated work led to these achievements,” said Delaware Secretary of Education Steve Godowsky in a press release.

All three Indian River schools will receive an $8,000 cash award.

Since 2009, Delaware has awarded schools for achievement on state tests; they were originally called Academic Achievement Awards.

Schools that have received state awards during 2015 and continue to qualify for Reward or Recognition School distinction in 2016 are named Schools of Continued Excellence to recognize their sustained accomplishments. They will be eligible for funds again next year if they meet the Reward or Recognition School qualifications.