Parkside School was nationally recognized by the National ESEA Distinguished Schools Program during a three-day conference in Portland, OR, February 7-9 for exceptional student achievement. Nominated by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction, Parkside School is only the second school in the entire state of Wisconsin to ever receive this award.
The National ESEA Distinguished Schools Program, which is a project of the National Association of ESEA State Program Administrators (NAESPA), has been honoring qualifying schools for their positive educational advances since 1996. The program publicly acknowledges the exemplary work of schools from across the country that utilize ESEA funds to improve the achievement levels of disadvantaged children. Parkside was one of 65 schools from 35 states nationally recognized, specifically for excellence in serving special populations of students.
"Being recognized as one of 65 schools in our country for the efforts and work that happens every day in our schools has been a humbling and rewarding experience. This accomplishment highlights every individual in our school community who is committed to the growth and achievement of all students in the Wautoma Area School District,” said Parkside Principal Doug Beattie.
“The opportunity to attend the National ESEA Conference with some of our school leaders was an honor to share and highlight the great things happening in our school community while also a valuable learning experience to speak and learn from districts around the country. Our entire student population and staff deserve this moment to share the award for the positive impact that is being created every single day," he added.
Through grant funding, six representatives from the Wautoma Area School District were able to travel to Portland, OR, to accept the award at the National ESEA Conference. According to the National ESEA Distinguished Schools Program, the schools selected for the national award exhibit the following characteristics: a poverty rate of at least 35 percent for the selected year; demonstrated high academic achievement; and met or exceeded state-determined accountability criteria.
“Receiving a distinguished award is not just a recognition of one's accomplishments, but a testament to the dedication, perseverance, and excellence we do at WASD. The Distinguished School Award instilled a sense of pride in my abilities and the work I do here at WASD,” said Miriam Pena, Riverview Elementary Bilingual Paraprofessional. “This experience was more than just a conference; it was a journey of personal and professional growth that continues to shape my work life. Most importantly, it reinforced the power of continuous learning and the importance of staying connected to a community passionate about making a difference.”
All 65 of the National ESEA Distinguished School recipients were honored with an awards package, including a section on the ESEA Network website, and an award presentation at the National ESEA Conference. School district representatives attended the NAESPA President’s Reception at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, were celebrated at keynote speaker sessions, and participated in exclusive opportunities reserved for award winners.
Parkside Spanish Teacher Jess Anders stated, “The National ESEA Conference allowed me to connect with teachers and administrators from schools across the country in similar geographic, demographic and socioeconomic statuses. I was able to reflect upon current teaching practices at Parkside School and gain insights/ideas to continue improving the education of our students.”
WASD Representatives also had the opportunity to attend keynote and breakout sessions related to mental health, equity, brain development, English Language programming, Gifted and Talented programming, and Special Education programming.
“It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to represent Parkside School,” said Julie Kettlewell, Parkside School Bilingual/English Second Language Teacher. “I’m honored I was chosen to go and will share what I learned with colleagues.”
Wautoma Area School District English Language Coordinator Jennifer Erickson echoed Kettlewell’s statement, explaining the entire experience was a tremendous honor. “Recognition as a National ESEA Distinguished School is a testament to our commitment to academic excellence and student success,” she said. “This honor celebrates our educators, staff, and students and inspires us to continue striving for greatness in education.”
To view Parkside School’s Story of Success on the National Association of ESEA State Program Administrator’s website, visit https://bit.ly/3wjtyRX.