by Cinnamon Dowd

State School Superintendent Dr. John Barge released the names of over 800 schools in the state of Georgia that were named Title I Distinguished Schools. Both Metter Elementary and Metter Middle Schools were recognized for this honor. “These schools are showing that high expectations, coupled with effective educators in the building, produce outstanding student achievement,” said Superintendent Barge. “I am very pleased to recognize the educators, students and parents in these schools and school districts.” To earn a Title I Distinguished School title, a school must meet or exceed federal Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) standards for three consecutive years. AYP standards include standardized testing in core subjects including reading, English language arts and math as well as attendance. For MES this is the first year of receiving this recognition. “I am very proud of our students and educators and what they do every day at this school,” said MES Principal Lesa Brown. “We have very committed teachers and staff that focus on the needs of every child, and that’s what makes us succeed,” she added. Metter Intermediate School is receiving this recognition for the second year in a row--a goal Principal G w e n d a Rotton says she hopes to see the school continue to achieve. “ W h a t this means to me is that the t e a ch e r s, s t u d e n t s and parents are working very hard to make sure that students are ready academically,” explained Rotton. “It is always our goal to improve each year and this is just another reassurance that our students are performing and achieving at high levels,” she added. Both schools will be given a certificate as well as a sign to place outside of their buildings. School who receive this distinction for eight or more years receive a monetary award paid from federal funds.

Courtesy of Metter Advertiser