Students and staff at Stevenson are getting noticed for their hard work and student growth in math and English language arts. Stevenson is among 90 schools across Washington that were named 2015 Schools of Distinction by The Center for Educational Effectiveness.

Schools that receive this designation are in the top five percent in improvement statewide, and elementary schools are particularly recognized for sustained improvement in English language arts and math over five years. Stevenson is receiving the award for the first time this year.

Collaboration Helps Stevenson Students Thrive

At Stevenson the staff credits collaboration schoolwide and utilizing student performance data in helping students make significant gains in English language arts and math.

“Teachers and staff have built a community around learning together and looking at student and teacher work,” said Stevenson teacher Cathy Elder.

One specific area of collaboration has been professional development with staff sharing their learning with one another to build on each other’s strengths, knowledge, and experience.

In the classroom teachers use student performance data to identify areas where students need extra instruction and support, and utilize small group instruction for reading, writing, and math.

“These small groups have been helpful in giving students access to academic content and allowing them to build their vocabulary,” Bhardwaj said.

Chitra Bhardwaj, who is the English language learning facilitator at Stevenson, said that parent and community involvement has played an important role in student success, and that the school’s Family Connection Center has helped to support students in and outside of school.

Stevenson Principal Chris Scott, who is in his first year at Stevenson this year, said that student success is multifaceted and applauded the dedicated efforts of school staff.

“Student improvement results when teachers set high expectations for students, and they design and deliver rigorous and meaningful instruction necessary to meet those expectations,” Scott said.

Continuing to Grow

“This recognition is an affirmation of the hard work, dedication, and talent that characterizes the Stevenson staff,” Scott said. “It is a symbol of pride for our kids and their parents. It is an acknowledgment of the district’s and the community’s support and of the former administration’s leadership.”

Being recognized serves as a catalyst, encouraging ongoing work. Having an organization, such as the Center for Educational Excellence recognize our sustained improvements in academic success for students helps to show both our staff and students that their hard work matter and can pay off.

Learn more about School of Distinction awards and The Center for Educational Effectiveness at www.effectiveness.org.