VALDOSTA— The Georgia Department of Education recently released the 2019-2020 lists of Distinguished Schools and Reward Schools.  Valdosta City Schools is thrilled to report that Valdosta Middle School has been named a 2019-2020 Reward School.

The Reward Schools designation recognizes Title I schools making the greatest improvements. Schools must be Title I to be eligible for the Distinguished School and Reward School designations, and must not be currently identified for CSI or TSI support. 

Reward Schools are among the greatest-improving 5% of Title I Schoolwide schools and Title I Targeted Assistance schools. Reward Schools also have to maintain the performance of their economically disadvantaged students, students with disabilities, and English learners to be recognized. 

“While we are focused on continuous improvement for all schools, it’s also essential that we recognize when schools are doing well,” State School Superintendent Richard Woods. “These schools are overcoming barriers, meeting challenges, and producing great gains for their students. I commend the school leaders, teachers, parents and communities in our 2019-20 Distinguished and Reward Schools who are opening up opportunities for their students.”

“I am extremely proud of our most recent recognition of being named a 2019-2020 Reward School,” said VMS principal, Mrs. Beth DeLoach.  “This honor exemplifies the dedication and strategic focus we have placed on aligning rigorous instruction to how students are now being assessed. Providing daily practice and exposure for all students to think critically and apply what they have learned has proven to be a recipe for success!”