Schools honored with ‘Reward School’ designation
The state of Tennessee recently gave several schools in Anderson County recognition as “Reward Schools.”
Clinton and South Clinton elementary schools, part of the Clinton City Schools, were recognized, along with Anderson County Schools such as Clinton High, Grand Oaks Elementary, Claxton Elementary and Andersonville Elementary.
Three Oak Ridge schools — Glenwood Elementary, Linden Elementary and Willow Brook Elementary, were also recognized.
Lizzette Reynolds, Tennessee Department of Education commissioner, said that for the 2022-23 school year, Reward Schools are those that have an overall federal accountability score greater than or equal to 3.1 out of 4.
This is a calculation that includes numerical scores for student achievement, student growth, chronic absenteeism and the proficiency of English language learners, or students whose first language is not English, a news release stated.
“Lots to celebrate,” said Kelly Johnson, director of Clinton City Schools.
“We have an amazing staff and amazing support from the community and students, and it’s just nice to see them receive this recognition,” he said.
“I think that we are so successful through our student focus and differentiating instruction to meet the needs of students where they are,” Johnson said.
“Congratulations on this identification for exemplifying student success in achievement and growth,” Reynolds said in letters to the schools. “We applaud your school’s hard work and student accomplishments.”
Anderson County Director of Schools Tim Parrott praised the county’s schools during the County Commission’s Feb. 22 meeting.
“I think you have a lot to be proud of,” Parrott told the commissioners.
There was praise from Oak Ridge, as well.
“Reward School status is a tremendous honor and something we aim for every year,” said Bruce Borchers, superintendent of Oak Ridge Schools.
“Schools are being evaluated more than ever, but at the core of each of these designations is a focus on student achievement,” he said.
“In Oak Ridge Schools, we are committed to a ‘student-first’ approach, keeping our instruction and decision-making focused on student achievement first and foremost.
“This recognition is a testament to the outstanding work of our teachers and administrators to fulfill that commitment each and every day,” Borchers said.