This year, we are proud to celebrate J. E. Woodard Elementary, Spring Hill Elementary, and Santa Fe Unit School as Tennessee Reward Schools! Each of these schools has demonstrated exceptional performance, making them stand out as leaders in education within our district and across the state.

How They Achieved This Honor

Woodard Elementary:

Known for its strong focus on literacy and early intervention strategies, Woodard Elementary’s success stems from its ability to foster a love for learning and provide individualized support for every student.

The dedicated team of teachers and staff consistently go above and beyond to ensure students thrive academically and socially.

Spring Hill Elementary:

A hub of academic innovation, Spring Hill Elementary excels in using data to drive instruction, helping students grow and meet their potential.

Collaboration between staff, families, and the community plays a crucial role in the school’s ability to address the unique needs of every learner.

Santa Fe Unit School:

As a PreK-12 school, Santa Fe Unit School stands out for its ability to deliver excellence across grade levels. The seamless collaboration among teachers ensures continuity in learning and growth for all students.

A strong sense of community and student-centered focus drives its success, emphasizing both academic achievement and holistic development.

From MCPS Superintendent and Principals

Superintendent Lisa Ventura:

“A Tennessee Reward School is the highest distinction awarded by the state of TN. It means the school did an excellent job ensuring their students achieved academically, experienced strong & measurable academic growth,  closed gaps between different groups of students and ensured students were present to learn. Reward schools are denoted for having achievement on TNReady/TCAP, TVAAS growth & reduced chronic absenteeism.   It’s like earning a gold star for doing an outstanding job in teaching and learning! 

As Superintendent I could not be prouder for the students, faculty, staff and families of Woodard Elementary, Santa Fe Unit School and Spring Hill Elementary.”

Woodard Elementary Principal:

“This achievement highlights the dedication of everyone in our building, the unwavering support of our community, and the guidance we receive from the Central Office. It puts an exclamation point on the incredible journey of our Woodard Class of 2024—students who began as kindergartners when the world shut down! This recognition reflects the passion and commitment of our entire school family. At Woodard, we believe in the limitless potential of every student, and this honor drives us to continue striving for greatness.”

Spring Hill Elementary Principal:

“Reward School status is a testament to the power of teamwork and determination. Our educators and families have worked tirelessly to support student growth, and this honor belongs to our entire community.”

Santa Fe Unit School Principal:

“Santa Fe Unit School’s recognition as a Reward School highlights the hard work, dedication and collaboration of our students, faculty, staff, and the strong support of our community.  This award reflects our commitment to academic excellence and a shared vision of a learning environment that supports student growth and progress in closing achievement gaps.  I’m incredibly proud of our students and staff for their dedication to excellence.”

Why This Matters

The designation of these three schools as Reward Schools highlights their commitment to:

• Student Achievement: Ensuring high academic standards and measurable success.
• Growth for All: Supporting students across all performance levels to reach their full potential.
• Equity: Closing achievement gaps and providing every student with the opportunity to succeed.

This achievement is a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and a shared vision for student success. We celebrate the extraordinary efforts of our educators, students, and families in making Woodard Elementary, Spring Hill Elementary, and Santa Fe Unit School shining examples of excellence in education.

What Does It Mean to Be a Tennessee Reward School?

In Tennessee, the designation of Reward School is the highest distinction a school can achieve. This recognition is reserved for schools that excel in helping students achieve outstanding academic performance, significant growth, and equitable outcomes for all learners. 

It reflects a school’s success in:

• Helping students achieve high test scores.
• Promoting academic growth across all learners.
• Closing achievement gaps between student groups.
• Creating a thriving learning environment supported by teachers, students, and families.