Each month, Dr. Zorn reaches out to our business community via the Kelso Longview Chamber of Commerce newsletter with information about the successes and challenges of our public schools.

The Center for Educational Effectiveness (CEE) announced 91 school across Washington State were named 2018 “Schools of Distinction”. Included in the list were four-time winner R. A. Long High School and first-time winner Monticello Middle School.

Being named a school of distinction is a prestigious award recognizing sustained improvement over a five-year period in English/Language Arts, Math or Graduation Rates. Being recognized as a school of distinction means being in the top 5 percent of improvement across the state.

Monticello Middle School is being recognized for its outstanding growth in English/Language Arts and Mathematics achievement.  The effort and results of Monticello’s dedicated group of teachers and support staff under the leadership of Principal Scott Merzoian has been fantastic.  Their relentless focus upon holding high academic expectations while providing instruction that is targeted to meet the identified needs of Monticello’s students has played a significant role in producing improved achievement levels.

R.A. Long High School was recognized as a “School of Distinction” for the fourth time. High schools are graded on their graduation rate. R. A. Long’s preliminary 2018 graduation rate is 96 percent, which is one of the highest graduation rates in the state. The teachers, support staff, and administration led by Principal Rich Reeves do amazing work every day. The graduation rate has risen significantly as a result of the focused support the staff provides each of the students they serve. They are not only focused upon the academic needs of their students, but also recognize the incredible importance of meeting the social/emotional needs of the students under their care.

We are incredibly proud of the students and staff at Monticello and RA Long and that pride extends to the other schools in our district.  Overall only five schools in the greater Southwest region of Washington State received School of Distinction awards.  Two of the region’s five “Schools of Distinction” came from the Longview Public School system.  I trust that you share our excitement for receiving this honor.

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