BUENA PARK – Arthur F. Corey and Charles G. Emery elementary schools credit reading, writing and math workshops, student intervention and after-school programs for narrowing the achievement gap and earning them spots on the Campaign for Business and Education Excellence (CBEE) 2018-19 Honor Roll.

More than 54 percent of all Corey School students scored proficient or better in English language arts (ELA) state testing during the 2017-18 school year. During that same time, nearly 67 percent of Emery School’s students scored proficient or better in ELA and more than 59 percent scored proficient or better in math.

Both schools were named Star Schools, a category for high-performing schools that have significant populations of students who are socioeconomically disadvantaged. Each school will receive a banner and be recognized as a model for other schools.

The District’s two schools were among 1,831 California schools to receive the distinction across 26 districts.

“This award is an amazing acknowledgment and assurance that we are providing a successful education for all of our students,” Emery School Principal Julie Linnecke said. “We encourage students to have a growth mindset and we reward growth and academic achievement regularly.”

Linnecke also said Emery School’s standardized testing achievements are due to reading and writing workshops, small group instruction intervention and adherence to project-based learning, which is a form of instruction that develops attitudes and lateral thinking.

Corey School Principal Valerie Connolly said her staff holds themselves to the highest level of professional standards in instructional practices by participating in ongoing training for reading, writing and English Language Development to ensure student success.

Connolly also said her school’s after school programs, such as Kid Connection and After School Education and Safety (ASES), provide academic and social-emotional support to boost achievement.

“We are very proud of Emery and Corey schools for being named to the Honor Roll for their achievements,” Superintendent Dr. Ramon Miramontes said. “This acknowledgement is proof that Buena Park School District is continually improving to make sure our students succeed and are prepared for high school, college and the workforce.”