Paramount, CA – Paramount Unified’s Abraham Lincoln and Wesley Gaines Elementary schools were named to the 2017-18 California Honor Roll in recognition of their commitment to academic excellence and narrowing the achievement gap.

The honor is given by the Educational Results Partnership (ERP) and sponsored by the Campaign for Businesses and Educational Excellence (CBEE), based on the results of state standardized tests in math and English language arts (ELA) taken in spring 2017. Both schools were named Star Schools, a category for schools that have a third or more students from high-poverty homes.

“We are thrilled to be named to the California Honor Roll,” Lincoln Principal Topekia Jones said. “Every Lincoln student, from transitional kindergarten to grade five, has an expectation of going to college. To accommodate students with diverse learning needs, we personalize the learning experience.”

Jones credits Lincoln’s success to a systematic approach to thinking and writing, parent involvement and a strong college-going culture. Students are taught to break down math and English concepts and to justify their work in class.

Gaines Elementary incorporates 1:1 Chromebook implementation at grade 3, while all students have access to three computer labs. Teachers stress vocabulary development and writing across genres in classrooms, while weekly collaborations allow teachers to discuss best practices.

“Through ongoing professional development and parent involvement, Gaines ensures learning and success for every student, Gaines Principal Michael Naruko said. “Gaines supports its students by instilling a culture of high expectations.”

Composed of local and state business and education leaders, the ERP/CBEE coalition seeks recognition for school and districts that are dedicated to narrowing the achievement gap and preparing their students for a 21st-century economy. The Honor Roll is part of a national effort to identify higher-performing schools and highlight practices that improve outcomes for schools.

“Paramount Unified is fully committed to providing every student the tools to succeed in college and career,” Paramount Superintendent Dr. Ruth Pérez said. “The ERP recognizes the hard work and determination of our teachers and administrators to create a positive learning environment that is equitable and rigorous.”

PHOTO CAPTIONS:

052418_PARAMOUNT_HONORROLL1: Gaines Elementary School students enjoy curriculum focused on vocabulary development and writing across genres. The school’s academic excellence earned Gaines a place on the 2017-18 California Honor Roll.

052418_PARAMOUNT_HONORROLL2: Lincoln Elementary School students pose during a Black History Museum event. Lincoln was named to the 2017-18 California Honor Roll in recognition of its commitment to academic excellence.