Willard's 'high expectations'
Overachieving school honored for exceeding state benchmark
By André Coleman 12/24/2008
Far exceeding the state academic performance benchmark, Pasadena’s Willard Elementary School was among 200 California schools named a Title I Academic Achievement Award School by the state Department of Education.
“This award is attributable to the hard work of our students,” said Willard Principal Debra DeBose. “Willard has an incredibly dedicated staff of teachers and paraprofessionals whose close work with parents has had a very positive impact on student achievement.”
DeBose credited her predecessor, former Principal Kathy Onoye, for much of the academic success the school enjoys today. “Her tremendous leadership inspired students, staff and teachers to strive for excellence, and that’s what this award represents,” DeBose said. Onoye now serves as PUSD’s executive director of elementary education.
A school is only eligible for federal Title I funds if 40 percent or more of its students are socioeconomically disadvantaged. Despite those hardships, Willard students scored 864 on the 2007-08 Academic Performance Index (API), surpassing the state’s 800-point benchmark.
The school was honored because of its progress toward ensuring all students are proficient in English, reading and math.
“Willard’s teachers, staff, and families have created an environment of high expectations for all students,” said PUSD Superintendent Diaz. “This approach has resulted in a steady decline in the achievement gap among groups of Willard students. The PUSD family congratulates Willard for earning this prestigious award and demonstrating that all students can receive a high quality education regardless of socioeconomic status.”
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