The Effingham County School System announced that seven of its Title I schools have been recognized by State Superintendent of Schools Kathy Cox as a Georgia Title I Distinguished School.

These include Blandford Elementary, Effingham County High School, Guyton Elementary, Marlow Elementary, Rincon Elementary, Sand Hill Elementary and Springfield Elementary.

Schools are designated Title I schools if they have a significant population of students who are economically disadvantaged. These schools receive federal money to assist with the education of these students.  Title I Distinguished Schools that have made AYP for three consecutive years are awarded a certificate, while those who have made AYP four or more years receive a monetary award, paid for out of federal funds.

Of the Title I schools in Effingham , Rincon Elementary has made AYP for eight years in a row and will receive a check for $1,068. Guyton, Marlow, Sand Hill and Springfield elementary schools have all made AYP for seven consecutive years and each will receive a check for $712.  

Blandford Elementary and Effingham County High School have made AYP for three years in a row; therefore, each will receive a certificate.

The number of Title I Distinguished Schools has grown significantly since 2003, when 116 schools were recognized.

“There are high standards for students and high expectations for teachers,” said Cox. “These schools are focused and determined — and they are getting results.”