Congratulations to Christa McAuliffe School for being recognized as a National ESEA Distinguished School! CMS is about one of 100 schools around the country being recognized for exceptional student performance and academic growth.
CONCORD, NH — The New Hampshire Department of Education (NHED) is awarding two elementary schools with the title of Distinguished Schools – a recognition that is bestowed upon qualifying federally funded schools for the outstanding academic achievements of their students.
The Christa McAuliffe School in Concord and Sunset Heights Elementary School in Nashua are two of about 100 schools throughout the country that are being nationally honored for exceptional student achievement in 2024, part of the National ESEA Distinguished Schools Program.
“The National ESEA Distinguished Schools Program highlights selected schools that have successfully used their Elementary and Secondary Education Act federal funds to improve the education for all students – including economically disadvantaged students. NHED is pleased to recognize Christa McAuliffe and Sunset Heights for their hard work and dedication to student performance,” said Frank Edelblut, education commissioner.
Christa McAuliffe is being recognized for its overall proficiency rate of 75.9% for English Language Arts, with 158 students tested.
“Our teachers and special educators have focused on aligning and integrating the NH-SAS (Statewide Assessment System) modules into their lessons to help students prepare for the content and question types. Increasing familiarity with the assessment has helped our students to feel more comfortable and confident with the overall testing experience,” said Principal Kristen Gallo. “We are extremely proud of the work of our staff at Christa McAuliffe School.”
Sunset Heights is being recognized for its overall proficiency rate of 71.6% for math, with 155 students tested.
“As the principal of Sunset Heights, I am incredibly proud to congratulate our teachers, students and staff on being recognized as one of New Hampshire’s Distinguished Schools. This remarkable achievement is a testament to their hard work, collaboration, and unwavering commitment to excellence. Every day, our school community demonstrates what is possible when we come together with shared purpose and passion. Thank you to each and every one of you for making Sunset Heights a place of inspiration and success,” said Principal Erin Anderson.
The Distinguished Schools program awards schools based on three categories: exceptional student performance and academic growth; closing the achievement gap between student groups; and excellence in serving special populations of students.
The two Distinguished Schools in New Hampshire will each receive a $7,500 grant to participate in the National ESEA Conference being held in February in Texas.