3 Washington Schools Hit Top State Marks Two Years Running

When teachers and families work together with one goal in mind, something remarkable happens. Three schools in Washington's Wenatchee Valley just proved it by earning state recognition for outstanding student achievement in 2026.

Sunnyslope Elementary School in Wenatchee earned the state's ELA and Math Achievement award, placing it among the highest-performing schools across Washington. The award recognizes schools that consistently deliver strong results in both English Language Arts and math proficiency.

Foothills Middle School, also in Wenatchee, received the Closing Gaps: Targeted award. This honor goes to schools that were previously identified as needing extra support but have since made meaningful improvements, especially in helping student groups that traditionally struggle.

Here's what makes this even better: both schools also earned state recognition in 2025. Sunnyslope made remarkable gains among low-income students and students with special education needs. Foothills showed significant growth in supporting low-income students.

Eastmont's Lee Elementary rounded out the trio with an award for growth in academics. The school's ELA and math proficiency landed in the top 10% statewide. Lee also earned recognition in 2024 for growth among specific student groups.

The Ripple Effect

When one school figures out how to help every student learn, the entire community benefits. These aren't just numbers on a report card. They're real kids gaining skills that will change their futures.

Superintendent Kory Kalahar captured what this means: "Back-to-back recognition is a reflection of the consistent, meaningful work happening every day in our classrooms and our shared commitment to every student's unlimited success."

The pattern across all three schools tells a bigger story. Schools can close achievement gaps when they focus on targeted support and refuse to give up on any student. What's working in Wenatchee could light the way for schools across the country facing similar challenges.

Every student in these buildings just got proof that their teachers and community believe in their potential.