By Staff
Special to the Advance
Twenty-six Alabama public schools from across the state were awarded the prestigious title of "Torchbearer School" during a recognition program May 4 in Montgomery. More than two thirds of the schools are returning to the list for a second or third year. Eight new schools were added as a shining example of places of learning that exhibit exemplary leadership and student achievement where adversity was overcome.
State Superintendent of Education Joe Morton recognized school leaders who have created stellar learning environments in their schools, overcoming odds that often hinder academic success.
"The teachers, principals, students and parents have worked so hard to turn their schools into high-performing schools," said Morton. "While the majority of these students come from high-poverty conditions, Torchbearer schools excel because they are truly dedicated to success."
Torchbearer Schools are high-poverty public schools that have overcome the odds to become high-performing schools.
"These schools exemplify what can be achieved when schools are committed to excellence for all students," said Dr. Angela Mangum of the Alabama Department of Education's Alabama Leadership Academy, which trains effective school leaders. "Schools in the Torchbearer Schools program are perfect examples of the positive environment created when principals, faculties and staff members work together to set common goals and meet the same high expectations."
Criteria used to determine Torchbearer School eligibility are: