Akron Early College High School is making strides to provide a better, more well-rounded high school, and even college experience for student in the Akron area.
The Ohio Department of Education has taken notice, and has named Akron Early College one of four "Schools of Honor" in the state.
Akron Early College Principal Cheryl Connolly, who started at the school as a classroom teacher when it first opened on University of Akron campus 10 years ago, says, "We have all worked very hard to make this school a success, so we're very proud of the kids and very proud of all of our graduates who... are doing great things for themselves and their communities."
See the full press release on the School of Honor distinction for Akron Early College High School below:
APS Akron Early College is 'Honored'
One of four Schools of Honor in Ohio
Ohio is recognizing four schools today for maintaining high academic achievement among their students, including many from economically disadvantaged circumstances that can make learning difficult.
The Ohio Department of Education named four High Performing Schools of Honor. Akron Early College High School (AECHS) is among the elite group.
You can find a complete list of Schools of Honor by clicking here.
Akron Public Schools Superintendent David James said today, "This award is important for our students and faculty, most certainly. But, we want our community to know how valuable it is we recognize achievement by our students who face difficult odds every day, not of their choosing. Poverty creates unique educational challenges."
“All children can learn and achieve, and these schools have shown that circumstances don’t define them,” said Paolo DeMaria, superintendent of public instruction. “Congratulations to these teachers and administrators for making a real difference in the lives of students."
The U.S. Department of Education approved Schools of Honor as part of Ohio’s flexibility waiver request for the Elementary and Secondary Education Act in 2012.
To be a High Performing School of Honor, a school must:
- Be Title 1 served or eligible and serve 40 percent or more economically disadvantaged students.
- Have 90 percent or more of all students score Proficient or higher in reading and math on statewide assessments (i.e., Ohio Achievement Assessments, Ohio Graduation Tests, and Ohio’s State Tests) over the last five years.
- Have 80 percent of all subgroups, including racial and ethnic, economically disadvantaged, students with disabilities and English language learners who are Proficient.
- Score an Ohio School Report Card grade of A, B or C on its Annual Measurable Objective, to narrow performance gaps between student groups.
- Receive an A or B on student learning progress through the school year and a combined five-year graduation rate of 93 percent or higher, if it is a high school.