Varnett launched into celebration Thursday after U.S. Education Secretary Arne Duncan announced that the East Campus was recognized as a 2010 National Blue Ribbon School.
The East Campus, under the leadership for Campus Director Twilet Alexander, earned the prestigious award for its high performing students and for being ranked among the top 10 percent of schools in Texas as measured by its performance on state assessments.
It is the only state charter school to earn the award, which honors schools that achieved academic excellence or made significant progress in closing the achievement gap. Twenty-three other schools in the state were also acknowledged.
"To be high performing, it takes the support of everyone, from the superintendent, the program coordinators, teachers, parents and students," said Mrs. Alexander, who is now the district's special programs director for special education and English as a Second Language.
The East Campus, an open enrollment elementary school, was among 254 public and 50 private schools to earn the national recognition. The schools will be honored at an awards ceremony Nov. 15-16 in Washington, D.C. More than 6,000 of America's schools have received the coveted award in the past 28 years.
Education secretary offers praise
"Our nation has a responsibility to help all children realize their full potential," Duncan said. "Schools honored with the Blue Ribbon Schools award are committed to achievement and to ensuring that students learn and succeed. Their work reflects the conviction that every child has promise and must receive a quality education."
Mrs. Alexander, who listened to the announcement in her office, said a celebration will be scheduled that will include students, parents and staff. She praised Varnett Supt. Annette Cluff and the school's board of directors for providing the necessary support to make the national recognition possible.
"This is a wonderful honor and is the culmination of the hard work and commitment by Mrs. Alexander, her staff and the parents," Mrs. Cluff said. "We will not rest on our laurels and will continue to provide a quality education at all three of our campuses."
The secret to success, Mrs. Alexander said, is having a full understanding of the needs of every student and taking assertive action in identifying and helping those who were struggling in the classroom.
"We listened to the teachers' concerns and I took them seriously," said Mrs. Alexander, who was East Campus director for three years before moving to the administration building. "It's about support. You make sure you do your research and Supt. Mrs. Cluff made sure we got what we needed."
Greta Peacock, curriculum coordinator for grades two through five, said Mrs. Alexander did an outstanding job in guiding her school to success. "She stayed on top of her game," Ms. Peacock said. "She knew her students."The East Campus last school year had 358 students, with 98 percent qualifying for free and reduce-priced lunch.
Joining Duncan in making the announcement were Washington D.C. Mayor Adrian M. Fenty, D.C. Public Schools Chancellor Michelle Rhee and George Washington University Provost Steven Lerman.
September 9, 2010
September 9, 2010