Five Washington Schools Earn State Achievement Awards

When educators see every student thriving, entire communities benefit. Five schools in Washington's Palouse area just earned state recognition for measurable academic growth and closing opportunity gaps during the 2024-25 school year.

The Washington School Recognition Program honored three Pullman schools for standout performance. Lincoln Middle School ranked in the top 10% statewide for growth among Black students in both reading and math.

Sunnyside Elementary earned the same distinction for helping Hispanic and Latino students, along with low-income students, make significant gains in reading and math. Franklin Elementary achieved top 20% status across all students for reading proficiency, math proficiency, and attendance.

Beyond Pullman, two more schools joined the honor roll. Colton School reached the top 10% for growth among students with disabilities, showing strong gains in math proficiency, reading growth, and attendance. Lamont Middle School also hit the top 10% mark for supporting white students and low-income students across reading, math, and attendance.

The Ripple Effect

These achievements represent more than test scores. When schools successfully support students who traditionally face barriers, they prove that targeted interventions work. Each student who catches up or moves ahead gains confidence and opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom.

The recognition also validates teachers and administrators who work daily to understand what each student needs. Their efforts create models other schools can follow, spreading effective practices across Washington state.

A complete list of recognized schools appears on the Washington State Board of Education's website, offering families and educators a roadmap of what's working in public education. These five Palouse schools are showing their communities what's possible when schools focus on growth for every single student.