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By J. FRANK LYNCH
jflynch@theCitizenNews.com

Starr’s Mill High became the latest Fayette County public school designated a state "School of Excellence” by the Georgia Department of Education Thursday.

Specifically, Starr’s Mill was recognized for "Excellence in Student Achievement,” for being ranked among the top 10 percent of all schools statewide in reading/language arts and math scores. Just 10 schools out of Georgia’s 13 Congressional districts received the honor this year.

State Superintendent of Schools Kathy Cox of Peachtree City made the announcement at a morning press conference in downtown Atlanta. Starr’s Mill teachers and staff found out just before lunch, said Principal Sam Sweat.

"It’s a real honor, something our entire community can be proud of,” Sweat said. "It’s symbolic of the parents, students and teachers who put together a really good high school.”

Opened just eight years ago, Starr’s Mill wasn’t eligible for the excellence award until recently. Schools don’t apply for the award, Sweat pointed out, but instead are chosen by the state, which makes it all the more special.

Another 10 schools were noted for demonstrating the greatest gains in reading/language arts and math over the previous three-year period, including Jefferson Parkway Elementary School in Coweta County.

“I can’t be more proud of these schools, their dedicated teachers, and the motivational leadership of their principals who have all focused their attention on improving student achievement,” said Cox, who taught in Fayette County schools for 15 years before running for state superintendent in 2002.

“Time after time they step up to the plate, showing tremendous commitment to helping all students learn at high levels,” she said.

The Georgia Schools of Excellence program recognizes those schools that have shown significant improvement, as well as those that are consistent top performers. It has evolved from a subjective application process to a more objective data-driven model that uses test scores as its foundation.

Last year, for example, Sandy Creek High was the only high school in the state named to the "Schools of Excellence in Improving Student Achivement.” list.

The 20 schools represent 18 different school systems. In each congressional district that had qualifying schools, one winner was selected. All winners will be honored at a banquet April 29 in Atlanta.

In addition to Starr’s Mill, the other Schools of Excellence are Ware County Magnet, Waycross; Linconln Elementary, Dougherty County; Browns Mill Elementary, DeKalb County; Morningside Elementary, Atlanta; Walton High, Cobb County; Riverside Elementary, Gwinnett County; Lakeside High, Columbia County; Mashburn Elementary in Forsyth County; Davidson Fine Arts in Richmond County.

Congressional districts 3, 11 and 13 had no schools that met all criteria for 2005.