Recognizing Excellence and High Performance

There are indicators of quality that high achieving districts have.  It is the average ACT score, the GPA distribution (the lowest end being about a 2.0) and percent of students scoring 3 or better on the AP exam.  They look at the outcomes of their education programs as the proof of excellence.  In Beloit we have students who are high achievers.  They come to school everyday and give their best.  They are bright, articulate and conscious of how important each present day at school is in building their futures. 

I had the privilege of meeting with some freshmen in a Spanish class.  The topics ranged from grading, open campus and having to earn parking as a privilege.  A few of them were able to see the big picture of the reforms that we would like to see at Beloit Memorial.  One in particular showed a real grasp of how certain changes at the high school will build momentum toward higher achievement and a business-like environment at the school.

In order to help increase a focus on the highest levels of academic achievement, there will be a special recognition for the high flying students within the district. On Sunday May 30, there will be a special recognition ceremony at the Eclipse Center for all students that have a 3.5 Grade Point Average and higher.  There will be a reception for these students and their parents that will go on from 4:00 p.m to 5:00 p.m. There will be a special program from 5:00-6:30 p.m., highlighted by an inspirational speech from Jim Caldwell, the coach of the Indianapolis Colts, a graduate of Beloit Memorial High School.  Along with the recognition, the students will receive commemorative medallions that recognize their excellence for the 2010 school year.  It is the first of many such annual recognitions. 

There are approximately 570 students in grades 6-12 who have a cumulative 3.5 or better GPA.  In addition to this there are a number of 5th grade students who will likewise be honored for their high achievement.  Fifth grade does not calculate GPA in the same manner as the secondary.  Principals and teachers are identifying only those 5th graders who are at the top of their schools.  It will be a special night and will allow students, especially some of our students of color, to see that they have a peer group of high performers.  My hope is to grow this group each year so that they become a much larger and recognizable group than our students who achieve a GPA of 2.0 or lower.  If Beloit is to be a school district of excellence, it is essential that we honor and expand this group of young people.  I also want to thank the many fine teachers and administrators who daily challenge, inspire and influence these marvelous young people to expand their intellects and give their best effort.