Florida Title I Schools Recognized for Academic Excellence

Thursday, December 26, 2013

DOE Press Office 850-245-0413

Florida Title I Schools Recognized for Academic Excellence

~ Eight schools make progress in student performance and closing the achievement gap ~

Tallahassee, Fla., December 26, 2013 - Eight of Florida's 1,854 Title I schools have been named 2013-14 Florida Title I Distinguished Schools. In addition, the top two schools have been nominated for the National Title I Distinguished School award.

"Congratulations to these exceptional Title I schools in recognition of their commitment to improving student academic achievement," said Commissioner of Education Pam Stewart. "These schools represent Florida's best efforts to promote student success and serve as an example of innovative and creative educational strategies. My thanks go to the schools' teachers and educational leaders for their hard work to help students be successful."

The National Title I Association, through a joint project with the U.S. Department of Education, provides an opportunity for states to honor distinguished Title I schools that have shown exceptional results in sustaining student achievement for two or more consecutive years or making significant progress toward closing the achievement gap.

The following schools demonstrated exceptional student achievement for two or more consecutive years:

• Meadowlane Elementary School, Dade County *
• Royal Palm Elementary School, Dade County
• Crossroad Academy, Gadsden County
• Mater Academy East Charter, Dade County

The following schools substantially closed the achievement gap between student groups in reading and mathematics:

• Lincoln-Marti Charter School (Little Havana Campus), Dade County *
• Somerset East Academy Preparatory, Broward County
• Team Success: A School of Excellence, Manatee County
• Inwood Elementary School, Polk County

* Nominated for the National Title I Distinguished School award.

Schools selected for the Title I Distinguished School award must also demonstrate strengths in the following areas:

• Opportunities for all children to meet proficient and advanced levels of academic performance;
• Professional development;
• Coordination with other programs;
• Curriculum and instruction that supports achievement at high standards; and
• Partnership among schools, parents and communities.