Four Renton Schools Earn State Recognition for Student Growth

Four Renton schools are proving that every student can thrive when given the right support. Washington State Board of Education just recognized these schools for exceptional work in closing opportunity gaps and driving real academic progress during the 2024-25 school year.

Campbell Hill Elementary earned recognition in two categories. The school made meaningful gains after being flagged for needing extra support just two years ago, showing how targeted help can turn things around fast.

Even more impressive, Campbell Hill ranked in the top 10% of schools statewide for low-income student growth in both reading and math. That means students who often face the biggest challenges made some of the strongest gains in the entire state.

Hazelwood Elementary stood out for overall achievement. The school's students performed in the top 20% across Washington for reading proficiency, math proficiency, and attendance rates, proving that consistent excellence is possible.

Renton Park Elementary made the list for remarkable growth among multiracial students. These students jumped into the top 10% statewide for reading and math improvement in just one year.

Dimmitt Middle School shined a spotlight on often overlooked student groups. Both Asian students and Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander students at Dimmitt ranked in the top 10% for math growth across Washington state.

The Ripple Effect

These honors matter beyond trophies in a display case. When schools figure out how to help students who've been left behind, they create blueprints other districts can follow.

The four Renton schools didn't just maintain the status quo. They actively closed gaps that have persisted in education for decades, showing families in their community that zip codes and backgrounds don't have to determine futures.

Washington's School Recognition Program, launched in 2010, specifically celebrates schools that demonstrate exceptional progress in key areas of student success. Getting on this list means these schools beat the odds and delivered results where it matters most.

For Renton families, this recognition confirms what many already suspected: their neighborhood schools are doing something right. Students are learning, growing, and achieving at levels that put them among the best in the state.