Two Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) have been recognized by the Kentucky Department of Education (KDE)for exceptional academic performance, innovative practices and commitment to student success. J. Graham Brown School and duPont Manual High School are two of 11 schools statewide to be named Spotlight Schools by KDE.
As Spotlight Schools, Brown and Manual are expected to share their successful practices with other schools across Kentucky, inspiring and guiding educators in their efforts to raise student achievement and create positive, inclusive learning environments.
“Recognizing these outstanding schools allows us to showcase the incredible work happening in classrooms across Kentucky,” said Commissioner of Education Robbie Fletcher. “Their dedication to student success and commitment to innovation make them valuable models for schools statewide.”
According to KDE, the schools have demonstrated excellent leadership, effective teaching strategies and dedication to continuous improvement. Each Spotlight School shared its key strategies and initiatives on a webpage that other Kentucky schools can access as they look to strengthen their own instruction and student success.
“At J. Graham Brown School, we believe in the power of independence, empathy, innovation, and advocacy,” said principal Angela Parsons. “Being recognized by KDE is an honor that reflects the incredible work of our students, staff, and families. We’re excited to open our doors to schools from across the commonwealth and share the practices that make our school a place where curiosity thrives and every learner is empowered.”
Manual principal Michael Newman said he and his staff “are humbled to be chosen as a KDE Spotlight School.”
“This honor is the culmination of the hard work from our staff and students striving to achieve personal and school goals’” Newman added. “We look forward to sharing our story, systems, and practices that have allowed us to achieve this recognition with other schools from across the state.
Commissioner Fletcher said KDE is looking forward to working closely with Brown, Manual and the other nine Spotlight Schools to help lift education across the state.