For the second consecutive year, both the Wilkins School and South School have been recognized as two of the best elementary schools in the state by U.S. News & World Report! Additionally, Stoughton High School has also been recognized this year by U.S. News & World Report as one of the best high schools!
U.S. News & World Report looked at schools across the country for its annual rankings list. More than 950 elementary schools in Massachusetts were ranked for this year’s list. Elementary schools ranking in the top 40 percent of their state earned the distinction of being named one of the best schools by U.S. News & World Report. This included both the Wilkins and South, with the Wilkins School scoring highest in Stoughton, ranking in the top 18 percent of elementary schools in Massachusetts.
“Our school’s achievements are a collaborative effort. All of the staff who have worked with the students from kindergarten through fifth grade, and all of the students, deserve recognition. It is rewarding to have all the hard work validated. It is an honor to be named alongside other top-performing schools in the state, including our South Elementary School,” said Katie Monahan, Principal of the Wilkins School.
“It is an incredible honor to be included once again in this list of Top Elementary Schools,” said Jake Dore, Principal of the South School. “The amazing staff, students and families should all take immense pride in the South School’s recognition. Despite the physical conditions of the building, the Shark Community continues to persevere!”
Meanwhile, high schools ranking in the top 40 percent nationally earned the distinction of being named one of the best high schools by U.S. News & World Report. Stoughton High was in the top 25 percent of the almost 18,000 high schools ranked across the country. Stoughton High’s inclusion on this list of best high schools follows SHS being named a School of Recognition by DESE for its accountability results and reducing chronic absenteeism, and earning bronze distinction on the Advanced Placement Program’s School Honor Roll.
“We are incredibly proud of Stoughton High School's continued success and recognition on a national level,” said Juliette Miller, Principal of Stoughton High. “Being ranked in the top 25 percent of nearly 18,000 high schools is a testament to the dedication of our students, staff, and community. This honor highlights our commitment to academic excellence and creating a supportive, inclusive environment for all learners. Together, we are building a bright future for every student.”
Elementary schools are ranked based on student proficiency in math and reading, with the top-ranked schools recognized as high achieving ones that succeeded in educating all of their students. The High school ranking focuses on six indicators of school quality: college readiness; breadth of curriculum; scores on state proficiency tests; performance in reading, math, and science; underserved student performance; and graduation rates.
“The work of all of our educators and students is both impressive and it is paying off as we see continued improvements in student achievement,” said Dr. Joseph Baeta, Superintendent of Schools.
Congratulations to the students and staff at the Wilkins School, South School, and Stoughton High!