Two elementary schools in Grand Forks, North Dakota, have achieved distinction by ranking in the top 10% of public schools in the state, according to accountability metrics released by the North Dakota Department of Public Instruction (NDDPI). The schools, Discovery Elementary School and J. Nelson Kelly Elementary School, have been recognized for their exceptional academic performance and positive learning environments.
Recognition Based on Accountability Metrics
The rankings are part of the state’s adherence to the Every Student Succeeds Act, which aims to identify schools that require additional resources and support while celebrating those that excel. Amanda Peterson, NDDPI’s Director of Educational Improvement and Support, explained that this year’s rankings were released to highlight schools “that are doing really, really well.”
According to the NDDPI, schools are evaluated annually based on several factors, including student performance, growth, and overall learning environment. This year, only 46 schools statewide achieved a place in the top 10%.
Dedication of Staff and Students
Kelli Tannahill, principal of J. Nelson Kelly Elementary School, credited the ranking to the dedication of the entire school community. “We were so excited,” Tannahill remarked. “It comes down to the outstanding teachers we have, the support from our families, and our 450-plus outstanding kids who come to school every day and put forth the effort.”
The accountability metrics for K-8 schools like J. Nelson Kelly include state assessment proficiency (30%), state assessment growth (30%), climate engagement (30%), and English learner proficiency (10%). Peterson emphasized that the rankings are not solely based on state assessments, as a variety of complex calculations are involved.
One key metric is climate engagement, which accounts for 30% of the K-8 ranking. This metric is derived from an annual survey where students evaluate their feelings about their school, assessing behavioral, cognitive, and emotional engagement.
At Discovery Elementary School, principal Allison Parkinson highlighted the commitment of her staff to “continuous growth for every single student.” She underscored the importance of tailoring educational approaches to meet individual student needs rather than adopting a one-size-fits-all strategy. “I’m just super proud of the staff,” Parkinson noted. “It’s just a really exceptional dynamic that happens at Discovery with all of these groups working together.”
Both principals expressed pride in their respective schools’ achievements while acknowledging the collaborative effort required to foster a positive educational environment. They emphasized the importance of strong relationships among teachers, support staff, and families.
Aiming for Continued Success
Peterson reiterated that the purpose of these rankings is not to create competition among schools but rather to ensure that all students have the opportunity to reach their full potential. “We always get the question, ‘what are they doing? What are some of those best practices?’” she said. “It’s really the entire ingredients. It’s the culture of the school, it’s the leadership, and the individual teachers and the relationships they’re making.”
This recognition not only celebrates the achievements of Grand Forks schools but also sets a standard for educational excellence across North Dakota. The commitment to fostering an engaging and supportive learning environment remains a priority for both schools as they move forward.
