Tennessee Title I Schools Receive National, State Awards

Nashville, TN – Six Tennessee schools have been named 2006 Title I Distinguished Schools, signifying either a track record of exceptional student achievement or closing the achievement gap. The program recognizes highly successful schools serving a large population of economically disadvantaged students. Smyrna Primary School and East Lincoln Elementary School earned the distinction of 2006 National Title I Distinguished Schools. Tennessee’s 2006 Title I Distinguished Schools are Unity School, John Colemon Elementary, Delano Elementary and Fairview Elementary.

“These schools exemplify that all students have the ability to succeed when given a quality education,” Governor Phil Bredesen said. “The teachers, principals and support staff in these schools have demonstrated exceptional commitment and the lives of hundreds of students are better for it.”

“Concentrated poverty too often means students are not exposed to the foundations needed for learning,” Education Commissioner Lana Seivers said. “These schools have ensured their students instead have the tools to excel in school. I commend these schools and students for their exceptional accomplishments.”

As national winners, teams from Smyrna Primary and East Lincoln Elementary are guests at the National Title I Conference January 27 – 30. National winners each receive a $5,000 award and the state winners will receive a $1,000 award. Title I schools are recognized in two categories: 1) those that have exhibited exceptional student performance for two or more consecutive years, and 2) schools that have made the most progress in significantly closing the achievement gap between student groups.

Title I school is a federal distinction indicating the percentage of economically disadvantaged students served qualifies the school for additional federal funds. Title I schools eligible for the Distinguished Schools award must have 35 percent poverty or greater, have met performance standards for two or more consecutive years, use research-based teaching and professional development successfully and engage partnerships with parents and the community.

For more information, contact Rachel Woods at (615) 253-1960 or Rachel.Woods@state.tn.us.