Bethel Elementary School won the National Title I Distinguished School Award for sustained student achievement.

The award is based upon three consecutive years of high academic performance in schools with high poverty rates.  During the last three years, Bethel’s free and reduce lunch rate has been over 50 percent.  During the same time period, the school experienced “high academic growth” and a “performance composite” of students passing state and federally mandated tests at a rate over 90%.

Dr. Anne Garrett, superintendent said, “We are so proud of Bethel.  This is a hallmark achievement.  This award places Bethel Elementary School among the best schools in the nation.”

There are 1,250 Title I schools in North Carolina.  To be recognized as a “Reward School” or “Distinguished School,” ...