Not one, but two schools from the Tacoma Public Schools earned the State Superintendent’s Learning Improvement Award for 2008. Sherman and Skyline elementary schools were honored as a 2008 “School of Distinction” in recognition of the steady gains their students have made in mathematics and reading skills over the past several years.
“We join Sherman and Skyline elementary schools in celebrating their academic achievements. These schools have demonstrated steady academic progress over the past few years through their focused efforts on raising student achievement,” said Superintendent Arthur O. Jarvis, Ed.D.
“I applaud Skyline’s commitment to on-going learning, efforts toward improvement and making a difference each day,” said Sally Sundberg, principal of Skyline Elementary School. Skyline Elementary School has worked collaboratively with staff members, parents and students on developing and implementing effective teaching strategies in reading comprehension, math problem-solving and written responses. Efforts go beyond the classroom setting with monthly themes, extended-learning opportunities, family curriculum nights and school newsletters that inform parents of student learning expectations and goals.
Sherman’s success can be attributed to the continuing improvement in communications and relationships among staff members, parents and students. “The key to our success is working together as a motivated, dedicated professional learning community. Thank you for recognizing our outstanding staff, parents and students,” said Connie Wick, principal of Sherman Elementary School. Weekly informational envelopes are sent home with each child, classroom and school Web sites are updated frequently and staff members collaborate monthly on student achievement data. As a learning community, Sherman continues to focus on implementing world class standards and creating high expectations for student achievement and behavior.
This award celebrated the top five percent of elementary, middle, high and alternative schools that exceeded this year’s state average performance on the Washington Assessment of Student Learning (WASL) in reading and mathematics. These schools also demonstrated outstanding improvement over time in both of those subjects. Sherman and Skyline were among 100 schools statewide that received this recognition in 2008.
The Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction created the award in 2007 to honor students, teachers, administrators, parents, schools and communities for the wonderful gains they have made in preparing children to learn, work, live and succeed in the 21st century.
Contact the Public Information Office at 253.571.1015 for more information.
Skyline celebrates being a School of Distinction
Each staff member at Skyline Elementary School received an individual certificate and a hanging crystal. Principal Sally Sundberg said, “The crystal was to remind staff of their efforts, determination and skills given to ensure all students achieve. The crystal symbolizes their ability to look forward, to predict positive outcomes and promote bright futures for our students.”
“After receiving the award on Oct. 22, the Skyline staff gathered students on the playground to show them the award and banner,” said Sundberg. “They were excited! Each classroom will have their picture taken with the banner and award. The award will spend a day in each classroom, so that students have an opportunity to see and touch the award.”
Sherman toasts teachers, too
Sherman Elementary School held a School of Distinction Party at 8:30 a.m. on Oct. 23, with cake, sparkling cider and fun to celebrate the students’ gains in math and reading on the WASL. “I’m toasting the teachers for their excellent work, too,” said Principal Connie Wick.