Rainier School District honored with OSPI award for educational excellence in student progress

Rainier School District (RSD) is shining bright and making history, as it was announced that RSD has been selected as one of 25 award-winning school districts across Washington state to receive the state superintendent’s award for educational excellence in student progress.

This year marks the first time that the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) has designated 25 school districts specifically for this award.

The state superintendent’s award for educational excellence recognizes the top 25 school districts across Washington in educational achievement and the top 25 school districts in the state in progress over the last three school years.

“This recognition reflects the dedication of our students, the commitment of our staff and the unwavering support of our families and community,” wrote Rainier School District Superintendent, Byron Bahr. “In Rainier, we believe in ‘Every Student, Every Day, Every Way,’ and this award affirms that when we stay focused on what is best for kids, meaningful progress follows.”

According to a media release from RSD, the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) evaluates school districts on several metrics based upon student opportunity and outcomes.

The student opportunity measures include: regular attendance; kindergarten readiness; highly capable program participation; high school level math in 8th grade; dual credit participation including career and technical education (CTE); and dual credit participation excluding CTE.

The student outcome measures include: 4th grade reading; 8th grade reading; 8th grade math; 9th graders on track; and the four-year graduation rate.

Additionally, the award criteria aligns with Washington state’s “Annual Snapshot on Student Opportunity and Outcomes” roadmap — which tracks how individual districts and Washington state as a whole are progressing on focus areas.

“It is an honor to recognize Rainier School District for their dedication to student opportunity and success,” said State Superintendent Chris Reykdal. “From high-quality instruction, to targeted strategies to improving attendance, to ensuring all students have access to advanced coursework, Rainier School District is an inspiring representation of Washington’s outstanding public schools.”

As a way to honor the district’s success, RSD will receive a banner and a plaque from OSPI to recognize its achievement and commitment to student success.

This is the first year in OSPI history that these honors have been awarded. To learn more about criteria to be selected, visit OSPI’s website at https://tinyurl.com/OSPIAward.