Boone Elementary School, Center 58 School District, Kansas City, is in the running to become a Gold Award winner of the 2013 National Excellence in Urban Education Awards.

Boone Elementary was named a Silver Award school last month, one of eight schools to receive this honor, by the National Center for Urban School Transformation at San Diego State University.  All Silver Award schools will receive a check for $2,500 and are eligible to be selected as the Gold Award winner in their category - elementary, middle or high school.

Boone Elementary is one of two schools in the elementary category.

“We are so proud,” said Sheryl Cochran, Boone Elementary School principal.  “Our work is a true collaboration of parents, teachers and community members.  This award is a reflection of all our hard work and commitment to the education of our students.”

To qualify for the award, schools must predominantly serve low-income communities, and students must perform at high levels of achievement for multiple benchmarks.

Cochran added, “We’ve had many conversations about data and setting strenuous targets for students.  In addition to the teachers, the parents know exactly where their kids stand, which is important.”

“To be recognized on a national scale is a true accomplishment,” said Commissioner of Education Chris L. Nicastro.  “Many urban schools see greater challenges for their students to overcome, but it can be done.  Boone Elementary School is committed to continuous improvement in student achievement and is a model for learning.”

Preparing students to be college- and career-ready is a primary goal for the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education's Top 10 by 20 initiative, which calls for education in Missouri to rank in the top 10 nationwide by 2020.

The Gold Award winners will be announced at the National Excellence in Urban Education Symposium, May 22-24 in Houston, Texas.  Winners will also receive $5,000 to support educational efforts.

For more information about the National Center for Urban School Transformation, visit https://www.ncust.org/.