News
Alexander, N-Y Earn Bronze Medals In Best High Schools list
By: Arian Smedley | Athens Messenger
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Both Alexander High School and Nelsonville-York High School received a bronze medal in the annual U.S. News & World Report Best High Schools list.
“As far as I know, this is the first time that Nelsonville-York has received this recognition,” said Elise Stephan, principal of Nelsonville-York High School.
To create the 2013 Best High Schools rankings, the news agency teamed up with the American Institutes for Research, which is based in Washington, D.C.
More than 21,000 public high schools in 49 states and the District of Columbia were evaluated in a three-step process, according to the study’s methodology. The first two steps use performance on state proficiency tests as the benchmarks.
The third step evaluates the degree to which schools prepare students for college-level work. The study looks at whether a school uses Advanced Placement test data as the benchmarks for success. Advanced Placement programs offer college-level courses, states the report.
Based on the scores, schools are then awarded gold, silver or bronze medals. Of the ranked schools in Ohio, 19 were awarded gold medals, 106 earned silver medals and 109 received bronze medals.
“It’s an honor to be recognized like that,” said Frank Doudna, principal of Alexander High School. “I have to attribute it to the great kids and the great teaching staff. I’m very proud of the kids and staff. I’m not surprised, and I’m very proud.”
Stephan also said the recognition is a direct reflection of the teachers' and students’ efforts.
“I am proud of the entire school community and am looking forward to another exciting school year.”