The U.S. Department of Education has named Argos Elementary School as one of the recipients of the 2015 President’s Education Awards Program.
The program honors nearly three million students from more than 30,000 public, private, and military schools from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.
Argos Schools joined some 500 Indiana Schools that have been honored for their educational excellence and growth.
Argos Schools’ Superintendent, Michele Riise, said, “The Argos Community Schools board, superintendent, and administration are thrilled with this recent announcement.” Riise added, “We are proud of our elementary staff, parents, students and community who have rallied to ensure that our students continue to meet high standards of academic excellence.”
In forwarding the honor, U.S. Secretary of Education, Arne Duncan, said, “The President’s Education Award Program recognizes achievement and hard work in the classroom while encouraging students who meet high standards of academic excellence, while also rewarding students who have overcome tough obstacles to their learning.”
One part of the consideration for the award is as follows: “Academic success in the classroom is based on grade point average or school-specific criteria and standards, such as high motivation, initiative, integrity, intellectual depth, leadership qualities, and exceptional judgment; plus high scores on nationally normed achievement or state tests or recommendations from a teacher plus one other staff member.” Other considerations include “Outstanding growth, improvement, commitment, or intellectual development in particular subjects; demonstrating achievement in the arts; and demonstrating unusual commitment to learning in academic despite various obstacles.”
Riise said, “This recognition is well deserved and we will celebrate this accomplishment.”
Carol Anders Correspondent
