Press Release: 02-01-2012

Whittier Elementary School and Hyde Park Elementary School have been honored by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) as two of the state’s “Academic Improvement” schools, during ISBE’s Honor Roll awards presentation, which annually recognizes the state’s top schools.

Whittier and Hyde Park are two of just 114 schools throughout the State to earn recognition in the area of Academic Improvement. According to ISBE, the selection criteria is as follows:

• Show improvement of at least 7.5 points in state test scores in reading and mathematics composite scores between 2010 and 2011; or
• Show an improvement of at least 15 points in composite reading and math state test scores in both reading and mathematics between 2009 and 2011; and
• Show an upward trend in state test results

The recognition brought excitement to both elementary schools, where building leaders praised staff and students for their hard work.

“It makes me very proud for Hyde Park to receive this acknowledgement from the state, especially with so much emphasis being placed on current No Child Left Behind expectations. This is a true testament to a school community working together with a clear goal of improving student achievement,” said Hyde Park Principal Mr. Brian Carr.

At Whittier, first year Principal Mr. Jason Smith also praised the work of staff, along with the work of now-retired principal Dr. Jeannie Kearby.

“This award exemplifies the dedication and determination of our staff and students. In only our second year of returning to a K-5 format, to win this award, it justifies all of the hard work we have put in, although we have not yet achieved our ultimate goal. I couldn't be more proud of our students and staff, and it is an honor to be working at Whittier each and every day,” Mr. Smith said.

Email Contact: nalajakis@wps60.org