The list includes several schools whose student population is almost entirely comprised of economically disadvantaged students. Among those that stand out are Glenn F. Burton Elementary in the Glendale Elementary School District.
“To have been selected for this recognition is a true tribute to the work and dedication of the Burton teachers and staff,” said Burton Principal Holly Northcott. “To a person, our teachers and staff are committed to providing our students with the best education possible, and, along with our partnerships with our students’ families, that commitment is clearly reflected in the outstanding work of our students.”
“The list of Higher Performing Schools is a valuable tool for any district that wants to evaluate areas of performance that might need strengthening. It's also a great way to compare your school or your district to other schools of similar demographics in the state of Arizona," says Angela Hall Watkins, assistant vice president and managing director of NCEA. "The schools that really stand out are those that, over several years, have gone above and beyond their expected achievement levels given their socioeconomic status. Such commitment is truly impressive, and is a testament to the fact that economic obstacles can indeed be overcome with dedication and perseverance.”
NCEA identified the Higher Performing Schools based on one or both of two measures: consistent improvement in student achievement from previous years (growth); and/or absolute student achievement using the schools’ Exceeds Standards results on the 2010 through 2012 Arizona’s Instrument to Measure Standards (AIMS).
All Arizona schools on the list will be honored by the Arizona Business & Education Coalition (ABEC) at an event on Dec. 7 at the Desert Willow Conference Center, 4340 E. Cotton Center Blvd. in Phoenix.
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