Bertram Caruthers Elementary School is being recognized nationally by the National Association of ESEA State Program Administrators for exceptional student achievement in 2021.
The NAESPA publicly recognizes qualifying federally funded schools across the nation for the outstanding academic achievements of all students, including students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
Principal Molly Struzzo has served the Kansas City, Kansas, Public School district 22-years, eight of them as the principal at Caruthers.
She said parents are noticing the improvements that are being made academically and sharing those experiences with other parents which resulted in an increase in requests to enroll their child in her school.
“Being selected as an ESEA Distinguished School is a true testament to the commitment and hard work that the Caruthers staff displays every day,” Struzzo said. “Teachers and staff have worked relentlessly towards each student’s individual growth. Through teamwork and as a work family, student needs are put first at Caruthers.”
The ESEA program began in 1996 and has been highlighting the success of schools in one of the three categories each:
• Category 1: Exceptional student performance and academic growth for two or more consecutive years.
• Category 2: Closing the achievement gap between student groups for two or more consecutive years. • Category 3: Excellence in serving a special population of students.
The Kansas State Department of Education designated Caruthers Elementary as a National ESEA Distinguished School for closing the achievement gap.
“We are all proud of the achievement,” said Dr. Anna Stubblefield, superintendent of schools. “The Distinguished School honor reflects the collective efforts of our teachers, administrators, and school support staff who help cultivate a positive and supportive learning environment that encourages academic excellence for all students. The national honor is the result of our student’s hard work and the guidance and encouragement from our parents. These are the outcomes we strive for on all of our school campuses.”
“This is an incredible honor for Caruthers. It pays tribute to the hard work and dedication of each student, teacher, and staff member by recognizing our commitment to education and growth,” said Caruthers fifth grade teacher, LeeAnn Thomas.
