Nelson and Evergreen are repeat winners.

The four schools received their awards during a special ceremony at the Puget Sound Educational Service Center offices in Renton. We wanted to know what made these schools stand out, so we spoke with principals and staff to get a glimpse inside their educational walls.

Liberty Middle School

Liberty Principal, Tom Mitchell, was quick to give credit where it was due, “It’s an incredible honor and it belongs squarely on the backs of our students and staff who’ve worked so hard to get better, each day, week, and month.”

“Liberty really struggled during its first year of operation, but the staff pulled together, refined our systems, and made HUGE improvements in year two,” said Mitchell. “In fact we were recognized within the district for being the most improved secondary school in the district for that school year.”

And Mitchell promises this year’s School of Distinction award isn’t the final chapter in Liberty’s growth. He said, “This is by no means the end. We know we still have work to do, and we will continue to work toward making our best, better.”

Nelson Elementary School

This is Nelson Elementary’s second year as a School of Distinction. Principal Kelley Boynton said his staff’s focus, selfless dedication to students and hard work are paying off every day. “All of my staff are absolutely committed to a focus on instructional improvement. They continually study to identify and hone new strategies to cause students to learn at higher levels.”

Kelley was quick to emphasize that his staff never gives up. “They will persist until everyone has learned.  My staff has worked hard, investing long hours for their students. Good teaching is hard work! I’m proud of my staff and their effort. I feel honored to serve as their principal.”

Centennial Elementary School

Centennial Principal Tamie Wright said, “Every member of the staff believes that each child is capable of meeting academic standards in reading, writing and math, and that the school has the power to make that opportunity a reality!”

Wright feels there are a number of things that went into Centennial’s meteoric rise, including increased parent involvement, a school-wide discipline plan, student goal setting, perseverance, persistence and support. She said these things, among others are all a part of No Excuses University’s six exceptional systems. Centennial became a No Excuses University school last June.

Evergreen Elementary School

To celebrate Evergreen’s third year as a School of Distinction, Principal Kim Hanson asked her staff what makes their school so special.

”We aren’t a building full of perfect students or perfect teachers,” said Dorothy Hoey. “We live in a flawed world, working against the effects of poverty and family problems, language barriers, and homelessness. And yet, the choice we’ve made to strive towards excellence is making its way into the minds and hearts of our kids. It’s, really, a very wonderful thing to be a part of.”

Thu Ulloa said it’s all about a strong relationship with her students, “I celebrate their successes and lift their spirits when they are not successful. They know I care for them, so when I say, ‘You can do this,’ they believe me. When I say, ‘Make me proud,’ they work hard.”