Gold Star given to Fairview a third time

For the third time, Fairview Elementary School has been named one of 16 Gold Star Schools in Missouri. Fairview was the only Columbia public school selected for the 2006-2007 year.

The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education chose Fairview after reviewing a written application and evidence of high student achievement. To achieve Gold Star standing, a school must prove five years of sustained high achievement, measured by the Missouri Assessment Program, or five years of sustained growth. Fairview was noteworthy in its academic achievement.

Principal Ben Tilley attributes the award to teachers and staff members who have worked hard together to help the student body achieve academic excellence. He also credits the students.

Students who “work very hard on classwork and study skills and good attendance,” Tilley said, “all play a part in helping our school be successful.”

In his fifth year as Fairview’s principal, Tilley will represent the school at a May 3 forum in Jefferson City, where the Gold Star Schools will be honored. He will be accompanied by a team of Fairview staff, members of the Parent Teacher Association and Columbia Public Schools Superintendent Phyllis Chase.

The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education conducts the Gold Star Schools program which is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education. Fairview also won the Gold Star in 1986 and 2000.