Local High Schools Achieve Statewide Recognition in Savannah

Celebrating educational excellence in Savannah at the inaugural Excellence in Education Gala.

News Summary

In Savannah, Georgia, both New Hampstead High School and Woodville-Tompkins Technical & Career High School have achieved significant accolades, receiving the prestigious 2024 Single Statewide Accountability Awards. New Hampstead earned a Silver Award for high growth in student achievement while Woodville-Tompkins was honored with a Platinum Award, reflecting remarkable academic improvements. Joy Hawkins, Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Student Achievement, praised the collective efforts of the community. An Excellence in Education Gala celebrated the accomplishments, including awards for Teacher, Principal, and Instructional Support Person of the Year.

Celebration in Savannah: Local High Schools Shine Bright!

In a delightful turn of events, Savannah, Georgia is buzzing with excitement as two prominent high schools have bagged some impressive accolades. New Hampstead High School and Woodville-Tompkins Technical & Career High School, both part of the Savannah-Chatham County Public School System, have received the prestigious 2024 Single Statewide Accountability Awards. This recognition highlights their stellar performance in the Greatest Gains Category, pinpointing the schools that have showcased remarkable improvement in student achievement!

A Closer Look at the Achievements

The awards take into account the most recent College and Career Ready Performance Index (CCRPI) scores, which reflect how well the schools have been doing academically. New Hampstead High School has certainly put its best foot forward, snagging a Silver award for achieving high growth in student achievement over the past three years. This accomplishment places them in the top 5% of schools across Georgia! What a fantastic milestone!

But wait, there’s more! Woodville-Tompkins has outdone itself, receiving the top-tier Platinum Award. This school has been recognized for showcasing high academic growth over the last three years and stands tall in the top 1% of schools in the state! With only 15 schools in Georgia reaching the coveted Platinum level, this achievement speaks volumes about the dedication of the staff and students alike.

Applause for Team Efforts

Joy Hawkins, the Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Student Achievement, has shared her applause for the collective efforts of teachers, principals, and parents who have worked tirelessly to bring forth such remarkable achievements. Their collaboration is a shining example of what can happen when a community bands together for the sake of education!

Excellence in Education Gala: A Night to Remember

Excellence in Education Gala. This event combined previous awards for Teacher of the Year, Principal of the Year, and Instructional Support Person of the Year into a spectacular evening of recognition. The community gathered to celebrate commendable individuals who have made significant impacts in their schools.

At the gala, Jennifer Hughes, a fifth-grade teacher from Southwest Elementary School, stole the spotlight as she was named Teacher of the Year. Her journey into education, sparked by a chance encounter with a Teach for America representative, led her to put all her energy into helping underserved children achieve their dreams. Indeed, her efforts come from the heart as she dedicated her studies to addressing the diverse needs of her students!

Meanwhile, Jabari Hymon was honored as the Instructional Support Person of the Year. His role as a school resource officer has extended beyond just ensuring safety; he has built strong mentorship connections with students, nurturing their growth within the community. What a dedicated individual!

The gala also honored Alfred McGuire as the Principal of the Year, who has led Woodville-Tompkins for more than a decade. McGuire’s remarkable journey started with the Educational Talent Search program, and he has made a lasting impression in the educational landscape. His commitment to fostering student success continues to resonate throughout the school and the community!

Corporate Support and Future Expectations

This stellar event featured over 30 corporate sponsors, including well-known entities like Georgia Ports Authority and Gulfstream. The gala aligns with the school district’s strategic plan aimed at enhancing employee retention and recruitment, setting the stage for an exciting future for education in Savannah!

As the plaudits roll in, there is no doubt that the achievements of New Hampstead High School and Woodville-Tompkins Technical & Career High School will inspire not only their students and staff but the entire community as they continue to strive for greatness.