Last week, State Superintendent of Schools Kathy Cox officially named Georgia’s Title 1 Distinguished Schools at the State Board of Education meeting, and Tallapoosa Primary and Buchanan Primary were both on that list.

The two schools are marking their first years as Title 1 Distinguished Schools. To be named a Title 1 Distinguished School, a Georgia public school must be designated as Title 1 and have made Adequate Yearly Progress under No Child Left Behind guidelines for three years in a row. Title 1 schools are schools that have a significant number of students who are economically disadvantaged and receive federal funds to assist with those students’ education.

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

Title 1 Distinguished Schools that have made AYP for three consecutive years are awarded a certificate, while those who have made AYP for four or more years receive a monetary award. According to the Georgia Board of Education, the number of Title 1 Distinguished Schools has grown significantly in the past six years, now standing at 896 schools compared to the 116 schools in 2003.

“These 896 schools don’t accept excuses,” Superintendent Cox said. “There are high standards for students and high expectations for teachers. These schools are focused and determined – and they are getting results.”

Executive Director of Teaching, Learning and Student Support Pepper Moon credits the Renaissance Program as one of several driving forces in the school system’s success in getting those results.

“We are using our benchmark data to drive our decision-making for student instruction in all of our schools,” Moon said. “We believe our Renaissance awards for academics and attendance coupled with activities for students and families have made a positive impact on student achievement.”

Superintendent for Haralson County School System Brett Stanton commended the schools and community for the part they both play in the success at these schools.

“I am very proud of both Buchanan Primary School and Tallapoosa Primary School for receiving this distinct honor. It is always enjoyable to see hard work and dedication result in this type of recognition for those involved in the process. It speaks well of the faculty, staff, students and communities of both these schools.”