Published: December 12, 2008 07:21 pm            

12 Whitfield schools named Title I Distinguished Schools

Submitted by Whitfield County Schools

Twelve Whitfield County Title I Distinguished Schools are set to receive additional federal funding to supplement their students’ education, school officials said.

“It speaks highly of the quality work our staff, students and parents are accomplishing when the majority of our Title I schools receive this well-deserved recognition from the State Board of Education,” said Lorijo Calhoun, director of federal programs for Whitfield County Schools. “It truly takes everyone working in collaboration with high expectations for students to achieve the profound learning experiences they must have to be successful in today’s world.”

State Superintendent of Schools Kathy Cox recognized Georgia’s Title I Distinguished Schools Thursday at the State Board of Education meeting.

“These districts and schools are a prime example of the impact high expectations, hard work and collaboration can have on student achievement,” Cox said. “I’m thrilled to recognize the educators, students and parents in these schools and school districts.”

Title I schools have a significant population of students who are economically disadvantaged and receive federal money to assist with the education of these students. There were 777 Georgia Title I Distinguished Schools last school year. Title I Distinguished Schools have made Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) at least three years in a row.

“These 777 schools don’t accept excuses,” Cox said. “There are high standards for students and high expectations for teachers. These schools are focused and determined — and they are getting results.”

Title I Distinguished Schools that have made AYP for three consecutive years are awarded a certificate, while those who have made AYP four or more years receive a monetary award, paid for out of federal funds.

The schools, with the number of consecutive years making AYP, the number of years as a distinguished school, and the fiscal year 2009 monetary award, are:

� Cohutta Elementary, Dug Gap Elementary, New Hope Elementary, 7, 5, $1,263

� Valley Point Elementary, Antioch Elementary, Pleasant Grove Elementary, Varnell Elementary, Westside Elementary and Tunnel Hill Elementary, 6, 4, $842

� Westside Middle, 5, 3, $842

� Eastbrook Middle, Valley Point Middle, 4, 2, $842

        

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