We’re thrilled to share some incredible news: Blythe-Bower Elementary has been named a 2023-2024 Tennessee Reward School! This recognition, given by the Tennessee Department of Education, highlights the hard work and dedication that make Blythe-Bower a standout in our community.
Being named a Reward School is the highest honor in Tennessee’s accountability system. To earn this distinction, a school must achieve an overall federal accountability score of 3.1 or higher out of 4.0. This score reflects strong performance in student achievement, academic growth, attendance, and progress for historically underserved student groups, including English Learners, Economically Disadvantaged students, and students with disabilities.
"This recognition is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our students, teachers, and staff," said Dr. Joel Barnes, Principal of Blythe-Bower Elementary. "Our collective efforts have fostered an environment where every student can thrive, and this honor reflects our commitment to excellence."
Dr. Jeff Elliott, Director of Schools, added, "Blythe-Bower's achievement underscores the power of collaboration and a shared vision for student success. We are immensely proud of this accomplishment and the positive impact it has on our community."
What It Takes to Be a Reward School
Reward Schools are recognized for outstanding academic performance and growth. Here’s a look at what goes into this special achievement:
Achievement and Growth: Measures how well students are meeting or exceeding academic standards and making progress.
Attendance: Tracks how many students are attending school regularly.
English Language Proficiency: Assesses how well students learning English are improving their fluency.
High School Indicators: Looks at graduation rates and whether students are prepared for life after high school.
This recognition is a celebration of the collaborative efforts of students, teachers, families, and the entire Blythe-Bower community. It’s a reminder that when we work together, great things happen. Please join us in celebrating this incredible milestone for Blythe-Bower Elementary!