7 Columbia Basin schools recognized for excellence by OSPI
May 5-OLYMPIA - Seven Columbia Basin schools have been recognized by the Washington State Board of Education and the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction for outstanding progress in student growth and closing achievement gaps during the 2024-25 school year.
The honors are part of the Washington School Recognition Program, which this year identified 379 schools statewide, about 16% of all public schools, for exceptional performance in one or more categories: Growth, Closing Gaps or Achievement.
Moses Lake schools earn multiple Growth awards
Three Moses Lake School District schools were recognized for strong year‑over‑year gains.
"This recognition speaks to the work happening every day in our classrooms," MLSD Director of Public Relations Ryan Shannon said. "It reflects a commitment from our students, staff and families to ensure every learner is supported, challenged and given the opportunity to succeed."
Sage Point Elementary was honored for English language learner student growth, ranking in the top 10% statewide for ELA and math proficiency gains.
Midway Elementary received recognition in two categories. The school showed "meaningful gains" on the 2025 Washington School Improvement Framework after being identified for Targeted Supports the previous year. Midway also ranked in the top 10% statewide for ELL growth in math proficiency and both ELA and math student growth percentiles.
Vanguard Academy was recognized for multiracial student growth, with top‑tier gains in dual‑credit completion and attendance.
"These are more than just a moment. They represent sustained effort," Shannon said. "We are proud of the progress our students are making, and remain focused on continuing that momentum."
Ephrata school recognized for student growth
Columbia Ridge Elementary in the Ephrata School District earned a Growth award for top‑10% gains among low‑income students in ELA proficiency, ELA student growth percentiles and math student growth percentiles.
"Being recognized by the Washington School Recognition Program is a meaningful accomplishment for Columbia Ridge Elementary and our entire community," said Superintendent Ken Murray. "This recognition reflects steady growth over time. What makes this especially important is that it's about real progress for students. We are incredibly proud of the work happening at Columbia Ridge and grateful to everyone who continues to show up each day to help students learn, grow and succeed."
Columbia Ridge Elementary Principal Karla Williams said the achievement belongs to the students and the staff who help the students succeed.
"Being recognized by the Washington School Recognition Program for 'Growth' reflects the incredible work happening every day at Columbia Ridge Elementary," said Williams. "This achievement belongs to our students, who are showing real progress, our staff, who are committed to meeting each learner where they are, and our families, who partner with us in supporting student success. We are proud of the growth our students are making and the shared effort that makes it possible."
Wahluke High School honored for closing gaps
Wahluke High School was recognized for improving English language proficiency after being identified for Targeted Supports in the 2024 WSIF. The school's English learner progress increased to more than 9.4% in 2024 - 25.
"Congrats to Wahluke High School for being named a School of Recognition," the district said in a statement. "The school's English language proficiency progress increased to more than 9.4% in the 2024-25 school year."
Wahluke High School leaders called the honor especially meaningful.
"What an incredible honor for Wahluke High School to be recognized by OSPI for Washington state on closing achievement gaps," the school said. "Amazing news to receive, especially during teacher appreciation week."
Othello schools earn Growth awards
Two Othello School District schools were recognized for top‑tier student growth.
"I think what's really nice about these awards is they recognize student growth improvements in schools, and we know that so many of our students come to school with challenges that our staff work hard and partner with their families every day to help them develop the skills they need to be successful," Othello Superintendent Pete Perez said.
Hiawatha Elementary earned Growth recognition for white student gains in ELA proficiency, ELA student growth percentiles and math student growth percentiles.
McFarland Middle School was honored for white student growth in ELA proficiency, math proficiency and attendance.
"The State Board of Ed and OSPI recognized that work. It's really the recognition of the strong efforts that we put in every day," Perez said. "We're excited about it for our kids and for our families and for our staff."
State officials praise schools' progress
State Superintendent Chris Reykdal said the recognition highlights the work of students, families and educators.
"I want to thank every student, every family, and every educator that has leaned into the work of advancing student achievement," Reykdal said in a statement.
Mary Fertakis, chair of the State Board of Education, said the awards reflect "the hard work, dedication, and commitment happening every day in these schools."
The recognition program is operated by the State Board of Education in partnership with OSPI and the Educational Opportunity Gap Oversight and Accountability Committee. Schools are evaluated using WSIF data, which measures proficiency, growth, attendance, graduation rates and other indicators.
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