By Jamie Miller
The Office of Education recently recognized Salem Elementary as the third highest[more] achieving overall school in Arkansas based on the 2010-2011 Benchmark exams. Salem, along with Springhill Elementary, was ranked in the top 20 elementary schools in Arkansas based on Benchmark Literacy Achievement as well.
“It means the world to our staff, parents and students,” said Mark Scarlett, Salem principal.
Scarlett refers to his staff for most of the success on the benchmark exams.
“It shows all of our hard work that these kids have done has paid off,” he stated. “We are so lucky as a staff at Salem. We have wonderful parents sending us great kids.”
This is the fourth year in a row that Salem Elementary has received this honor. The school was also named one of the top five most successful schools in Arkansas by the Office of Education.
“When you focus on the needs of that one child, it makes a big difference in how they learn,” Scarlett said.
Salem tried to look at each student and teach that child individually, he added. They attempted to break instruction down to meet the needs of all of their students.
“I am so proud of our teachers and students,” Scarlett concluded. “They deserve every award they receive. They work so hard and it is wonderful when it pays off.”
