Models of Excellence In Education

The goal of the Models initiative is to identify schools that raised student achievement, as measured through standardized testing. Superintendents nominate a school from their district that employed a practice or program that they believe had a measurable effect on raising student achievement.

A subcommittee then reviews the nominations and choses a group of finalists. Special consideration is given to those schools that had closed the achievement gap with respect to minorities and low-income population. Site visits including interviews and observations gain a deeper understanding of what has contributed to the school's success.

Schools chosen as Models of Excellence in Education are selected based on the information and data gathered from the submissions from district superintendents and site visits. The chosen schools are celebrated at a ceremony in September and awarded $5,000. They also participate in a forum where they share their practice or methods with other schools, teachers and parents.

Models of Excellence is partnered with the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce's Superstars in Education program. Please visit the Superstars in Education website at www.dscc.com/state_chamber/affiliates/partnerships/Superstars_Education.htm for more information.