Peggy M. Himburg
Woodville High School was recognized at the Feb. 8 Alabama State Board of Education meeting for being among the Top 25 Most Improved on the State Report Card. Principal Layton Holman and Jackson County Superintendent Jason Davidson traveled to Montgomery to receive this honor for the school. The Board passed a resolution in recognition of the Legislative School Performance Program Award congratulating those schools receiving this special recognition.
The Legislative School Performance Recognition Program was created to reward public schools that either demonstrate high performance by being ranked in the top 25 percent of public schools, as ranked in the school grading system, or demonstrate exemplary progress by improving the overall annual ranking of the school by at least one letter grade, as ranked in the school grading system.
As part of the resolution, the Alabama SBOE commends and congratulates those schools comprised in the Top 25 Percent and Top 25 Most Improved Schools for their hard work and determination to improving student outcomes.
State Superintendent Dr. Eric Mackey and District 8 State Board Member Dr. Wayne Reynolds presented the resolution to Davidson and Holman.
In making his school presentation to the Jackson County Board of Education last week, Holman explained that Woodville’s score improved by 12 points. The overall score for Woodville High School was 87. He credited the dedication of his teachers and staff and the hard working students for this achievement. He also cited the recent success of the school’s athletic programs.
One of the things that Holman and his staff have been working on is the culture of the school. They want the students to take pride in their school. “We are building relationships with our students. Knowing our kids is major, and this has helped decrease discipline incidents.” One thing the school did was to purchase a t-shirt for every student so everyone has the chance to show their school pride.
In one area of growth, the school has altered the schedule for seventh and eighth graders to allow more time for math and English Language Arts. “The teachers have done a fantastic job. It’s a joint effort to get the where we are. I appreciate all the support from the Board.” Proficiency continues to increase. Another point noted by Holman is the continual increase in enrollment made possible by providing a good product making students want to come to Woodville High School.
