Three Oak Ridge Schools—Glenwood Elementary, Willow Brook Elementary and Oak Ridge High School—have been named Reward Schools by the Tennessee Department of Education (TDOE) for “exemplifying student success in achievement and growth,” according to a letter of recognition signed by Commissioner Lizzette Reynolds. The recognition reflects the work and achievement of the 2023-24 school year and is based on each school’s federal accountability score—a complex 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. Willow Brook and Glenwood earn the distinction for the second-consecutive year, while Oak Ridge High School receives Reward School status for the first time in the modern accountability era.
“Reward School status is a tremendous honor and something we aim for every year,” said Dr. 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. In Oak Ridge Schools, we are committed to a ‘student-first’ approach, keeping our instruction and decision-making focused on doing what’s best for students. This recognition is a testament the outstanding work our teachers do to fulfill that commitment, and our students for always striving to reach their full potential.”
Reward status is the top distinction a school can earn in Tennessee and is determined by a nation-wide, federal calculation. School Letter Grades, which were introduced in December of 2023, are determined by the state. Both designations rely heavily on student test scores to determine levels of student achievement and growth.
“Being named a Reward School has been a goal of ours at the high school,” said Drayton Hawkins, Principal of Oak Ridge High School. “For a school of our size, and our diversity of student population, this recognition is not easy to achieve and is not something we take lightly. I am so proud of our students and our staff for remaining committed to our mission and achieving this extraordinary accomplishment.”
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