Birches School Earns Governor’s School of Excellence Award

Three Washington Township Elementary Schools are recipients of the 2004-2005 Governor’s School of Excellence Awards from the New Jersey Department of Education.  Birches School was one of twenty two schools statewide cited for their “significant improvements in academic achievement as measured by state test scores in language arts and mathematics,” using 2001-2002 as a baseline. Professional development, test scores and technology helped Birches School qualify for the award.  The school’s literacy rate has gone from 46 to 94 percent proficiency in the past five years.

The Governor’s School of Excellence is a highly coveted award that validates all of the worthwhile programming and exceptional achievement that sets schools apart.  In addition to acknowledging academic achievement, the Governor’s Award recognizes schools for advances relating to growth in literacy, parental involvement, community partnerships, the use of instructional technology, improved learning for special needs and/or specialized populations and professional development. Birches School applied and competed for the award.  The school will use the $25, 000 awarded to enhance student achievement and support continuous school improvement.

“The Governor’s School of Excellence Awards program celebrates schools that are steadfast in improving and providing the very best for their students,” Education Commissioner William L.  Librera said. “While we have myriad schools throughout the state who demonstrate success on a daily basis, this important program celebrates the steps some schools have taken to improve, and the hope that they will be at the forefront of education in the future.” http://www.nj.gov/njded/clear/teach/gsoe/04winners.pdf

NJ State Assemblyman, David R. Meyer (left) presents proclamations for the Governor's Schools of Excellence to our principal of Birches Elementary School,  Peg Zycinsky (center), Vince Cardile (Whitman Elementary School principal - 2nd to left), Superintendent Thomas Flemming, and Michael Landon (Wedgwood Elementary School principal - right) on the floor of the New Jersey State Assembly.  There were 22 state schools recognized.  Washington Township was the only district in the state to receive three awards!