Partnership helps local high schools win national recognition

Cedar Shoals and Clarke Central high schools were recently named "Schools of Opportunity" by a project based in the University of Colorado School of Education, and the schools' partnership with programs at the University of Georgia helped put them on the list.

The Athens Banner-Herald reports that the schools are among 20 across the country that received the honor. The annual award recognizes "high schools that have demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to equity and excellence by giving all students the opportunity to succeed."

For both schools, the article notes, the reviewers cited the benefits of the Professional Development School District partnership, which brings UGA students and faculty to the schools for classes and professional development. The award committee also noted the benefits of Experience UGA, a program that takes public school students to the UGA campus once a year.

The PDSD is an award-winning program run through the UGA College of Education, while Experience UGA began as a program through the College and faculty continue to assist with curriculum development for the program.