Ashley Elementary School has been named a National Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) Distinguished School for its outstanding work with students who are English language learners.
Ashley Elementary is one of up to 100 schools nationwide that has been nationally recognized this year.
“The credit for this award lies completely with our great staff here at Ashley,” Principal Carrie Weldon said. “We have dedicated teachers who always have what’s best for the kids in mind. They work long, hard hours to make sure our students have the best instruction and that they meet all of the students’ needs.”
The school also has great intervention aides and grade level aides who work with students to get them reading at grade level, Weldon said.
“They care about the students and work hard to help them be successful,” she said.
Ashley Elementary was specifically nominated for national recognition because of the school’s work with English language learners. Griselda Quintero is the school’s English language instructor.
“She works with our kids who are learning English to be sure that they are learning to speak, read, and write in English,” Weldon said. “Because she speaks Spanish, she communicates with our Spanish speaking parents to make sure they know what is going on at school.
“She is their go-to when they have questions and concerns about school,” Weldon added, “and I know they feel more connected to school because she makes them feel that they are a part of our school community.”
The National ESEA Distinguished Schools Program publicly recognizes qualifying federally funded schools for the outstanding academic achievements of their students. The program has been in place since 1996, showcasing the success of schools in one of three categories, including excellence in serving special student populations, such as English language learners.
Ashley Elementary will receive a National ESEA Distinguished School flag for its campus, recognition nationwide as one of the country’s top schools, and $15,000 to provide additional training for staff and support for students.