Last week, Valparaiso Community Schools received word from the Indiana Department of Education that once again, several Valpo schools received the prestigious honor of a Four Star School Rating. Valparaiso High School, Benjamin Franklin Middle School, Thomas Jefferson Elementary School, Central Elementary School, Memorial Elementary School, and Northview Elementary School all received a Four Star rating.
At the elementary and middle school levels, the rating is determined by ISTEP scores, while at the high school level, it’s determined by End of Course Assessment scores.
Only 313 schools in all of Indiana received a four star rating, and VCS makes up 6 of those.
“This year, the Valparaiso Community School Corporation demonstrated a high level of success,” said VCS Superintendent Mike Berta. “The Four Star Rating is used to identify academically powerful schools.”
The achievement across schooling levels demonstrates the academic power of Valpo students throughout their school careers. This success can be attributed to a combination of positive influence from parents, teachers, and administrators, as well as the student’s desire to learn.
“This rating means that we’re at the top, leading the pack,” Berta said.
At the high school level especially, where much of learning is student drive, Valparaiso High School Principal Reid Amones would like congratulate the school community.
“Our teachers and staff have made a concerted effort to help all students achieve at high levels and are appreciative of the support from our administration, school board, and community,” Amones said. “Though we are pleased with our successes, VHS is committed to continuous improvement and strives to continue to provide outstanding educational opportunities for the students of the Valparaiso Community.”
Members of the school board also extended their congratulations.
“Congratulations to the students and what they do and their work, the staff, and to the parents,” Berta said. “It’s a job well done.”
“It’s the teachers and students who made this happen,” School Board President Mark Maassel said.
Even in the midst of celebration, however, VCS strives to improve.
“We need to do our best to make sure our schools develop fine young men and women, to help them obtain an excellent education,” Berta said. “It’s a big deal. We’re engaged. It is an effort to pursue high learning for all kids. All of our schools should receive Four Star Ratings, and all of our students should pass their state exams.”
“Valparaiso has an excellent school system, but we still have room to improve,” said Maassel. “We want our students to be the best they can be.”